Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe

Emergencies can happen anytime and having a well-stocked emergency supply kit can make a significant difference in how you and your family handle a crisis. Whether it’s a hurricane, flood, wildfire, or power outage, preparation is key to staying safe, healthy, and informed.

An emergency kit should sustain you and your family for at least seven days and include essential supplies such as food, water, medical necessities, and important documents. Each household is unique, so your kit should be tailored to meet specific needs, including those of infants, elderly family members, and pets.

This guide provides a comprehensive checklist of essential items for your emergency kit, along with additional considerations to ensure you’re fully prepared for any situation.

Essential Emergency Supply Kit Checklist

Water – At least one gallon per person per day for seven days (for drinking and sanitation).

Non-Perishable Food – A seven-day supply of ready-to-eat canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, and nuts.

Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio – To receive emergency alerts and updates.

Flashlights & Extra Batteries – Ensure you have multiple flashlights and fresh batteries.

First Aid Kit – Include bandages, antiseptics, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medicines.

Personal Hygiene Items – Soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine products, and deodorant.

Face Masks – To help filter contaminated air or prevent illness.

Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, and Plastic Ties – For personal sanitation.

Local Maps – In case GPS is unavailable. Evacuation Routes

Cell Phone with Chargers & Backup Batteries – A solar-powered or hand-crank charger is ideal.

Additional Essential Items

Prescription Medications – A seven-day supply with a list of dosages.

Important Documents – Copies of insurance policies, identification, medical records, and bank records stored in a waterproof container.

Cash – ATMs and card readers may not be operational. Keep small bills on hand.

Emergency Contact Information – A printed list of family members, friends, and emergency services.

Blankets or Sleeping Bags – To keep warm if needed.

Extra Clothing & Sturdy Shoes – Pack for different weather conditions.

Whistle – To signal for help if trapped or lost.

Matches or Lighter – Stored in a waterproof container.

Fire Extinguisher – Ensure it is suitable for all types of fires.

Infant & Child Care Supplies – Formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and comfort items.

Pet Supplies – Food, water, leash, collar, carrier, and vaccination records. Make a Pet Plan

Games, Books & Activities – To keep children occupied during extended emergencies.

More Key Considerations for Your Kit

While the checklist covers the basics, here are a few more factors to consider when assembling your kit:

Special Dietary Needs – Include food options that accommodate allergies or medical conditions.

Utility Shut-Off Tools – A wrench or pliers may be needed to turn off gas, water, or power.

Backup Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses – If you require vision correction, have a spare set.

Copies of Prescriptions – Keep an updated list of medications and dosages.

Power Backup for Medical Devices – If you rely on powered medical equipment, ensure you have battery backups or a generator.

Hard Copies of Emergency Plans – Store printed maps and emergency contacts in case of digital failures.

Solar or Hand-Crank Charger – To keep devices powered without relying on electricity.

Extra Fuel for Vehicles & Generators – If safe to store, have extra gas available for evacuation or backup power.

Additional Resources

Ready.gov - Build a Kit
FEMA’s official emergency preparedness site provides a comprehensive disaster supply kit checklist for all types of emergencies, including floods, wildfires, and power outages. *Printable Checklist

Florida Department of Health - Prepare Yourself
Tools and resources to help you and your family prepare for any disaster, including information about current hazards and what to do before, during, and after public health emergencies.

American Red Cross - Survival Kit Supplies
The Red Cross offers a detailed emergency kit list for any disaster, including first aid essentials, hygiene products, and tools for communication.

Division of Emergency Management - Disaster Supply Kit Checklist
This government resource provides a general emergency kit checklist with recommendations for medical needs, pet supplies, and power outages. *Printable Checklist

Center for Disease Control Emergency Kit Checklist
The CDC offers emergency preparedness guidance, including a checklist for food, water, medication, and personal hygiene items for various disasters.

Note: The links and content provided on this page are for your convenience and informational purposes. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) doesn't endorse or approve any products, services, or opinions. We're not responsible for the content or accuracy of external sites. If you have questions, please reach out to the external site directly.