Written by: Emily Joswiak • February 17, 2021• Safety

Tips for Packing a Household Emergency Kit

Emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye. To keep you and your family safe, it’s wise to have a household emergency kit prepared and stored in a place that’s easily accessible. An emergency kit can help you get through all kinds of situations. You might need a flashlight and a wireless charger during a temporary power outage, or enough supplies to last you through a week-long storm. These tips for packing a household emergency kit will help you survive whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

What To Pack

Your emergency kit should contain a variety of items. You should store these items in airtight plastic bags and put the entirety of your kit into one or two easy-to-carry containers, like plastic bins or a duffel bag. In general, your kit should include:

Battery-powered or hand crank radio
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Dust mask
Extra batteries
First-aid kit
Flashlight
Food
Local maps
Manual can opener
Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
Plastic sheeting and duct tape
Water
Whistle
Wrench or pliers

The food you include should be non-perishable. Some great options include canned meats, vegetables, fruits, soups, rice, pasta, cereals, and granola bars.

When you’re picking out a flashlight, consider opting for a tactical flashlight instead of a regular flashlight. Tactical flashlights have a longer battery life. They’ll also put out more light than a regular flashlight, making them an essential tool for navigating at night, reaching out for help, and more. You can even opt for versions that are rechargeable.

How To Maintain Your Kit

After assembling your kit, you’ll want to perform a routine inspection of its contents and replace them as necessary. If your kit contains canned food, keep it in a cool, dry place. Boxed food should be stored in tightly closed plastic or metal containers. Any expired food items should be thrown out and replaced. Every year, you should take the time to reevaluate your household’s needs. Make sure to include additional items in the kit for each new member of your family, whether it’s another adult, a baby, or even a pet.

Where To Store Your Kit

Another tip for packing a household emergency kit is to store it in a safe, easy-to-reach place. A disaster can strike anywhere, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the road. Preparing emergency kits for all three of these places will ensure you’re always stocked with safety and other survival supplies.

Your emergency kit should be kept in an accessible place. Everyone in your family should be informed of the location of your emergency kit, including children. Make sure to keep it at a reasonable height and avoid locking it behind complicated mechanisms—this makes it harder to access. A drawer, cabinet, or your kitchen’s pantry will usually work well. At work, store your emergency kit somewhere in or near your desk. For a car or truck, make sure the kit is stored somewhere you can access without needing to exit the vehicle.

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