GOHSEP

Emergency Supply Kit

It’s that time of the year again… hurricane season! During a natural disaster, there are many things that we can’t control; however, our preparation beforehand IS something we have control over. Diligent preparation can keep us, our loved ones, and our property safe, and a critical step in pre-hurricane prep is to put together an emergency kit. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) has created a list of essential items to include in your emergency kit below.

Basic Emergency Supply Kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Download the Recommended Supplies List (PDF)

Additional Emergency Supplies

• Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages two and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids, or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler’s checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels, and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children

Since natural disasters can occur when you least expect them, having an emergency kit ready to go in a few different locations is a good idea. Below is GOHSEP’s recommendations on locations:

Recommended Kit Storage Locations

• Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready if you must leave your house quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
• Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water, and other necessities like medicines and comfortable walking shoes stored in a “grab and go” case.
• Car: If you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your vehicle.

Whether this is your first hurricane season or you are a seasoned pro, it is imperative to take your preparations seriously for the well-being of yourself and those you love.

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit https://getagameplan.org/.