Build A Kit

When disaster strikes, emergency responders address the most critical needs and may not be able to get to an area until it is deemed safe. While they work on behalf of the entire community, it is your responsibility to ensure your Family’s well-being during times of crisis. Emergency kits are essential tools for meeting that challenge.

To prepare your Family for an emergency, get one or more emergency kits that include enough supplies to meet your essential needs (see list below-not all inclusive) for at least three days. Think reusable and multi-use. A metal bowl can do double duty as a cup and saucepan. A brightly colored poncho can be used as water repellent clothing, a marker and two together can create a temporary shelter. Keep a kit at home, and consider having kits in your car and at work. These kits will enable you and your family to respond to an emergency more quickly. Your various emergency kits will be useful whether you have to evacuate or shelter-in-place. Check with your local officials for any other specific items that should be included in your kit. Be sure to rotate your items periodically, ensuring nothing is expired when the need comes.

Suggested basic items to consider for a home emergency kit:
	Water—at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days
	Food—nonperishable food for at least three days, consider items that do not require cooking and will maintain freshness for several months such as energy bars, freeze dried foods and dehydrated foods
	Formula and diapers for any infants
	Food, water, other supplies and documents for any pets
	Manual can opener
	Flashlight, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) battery-powered weather radio, battery-powered cellphone charger and extra batteries or hand crank powered devices
	First aid kit and prescription medications
	Sanitation supplies such as moist towelettes, disinfectant and garbage bags
	Important documents in watertight packaging—personal, financial and insurance—store copies in a separate location (safety deposit box, relatives, or trusted friend)
	Your family emergency plan, local maps and your command reporting information
	5-Gallon bucket with plastic bags for use as a portable toilet
	Cash in small denominations
Additional items can be essential for those stationed abroad:
	Passports
	Birth abroad certificate for children born overseas
	Cash in local currency
	Card with local translations of basic terms
	Electrical current converter
	Know the Army Information Hotline number for assistance 1-800-833-6622
Many other items could prove helpful:
	Fire extinguisher
	Any tools needed to turn off utilities
	Matches in a waterproof container
	Metal or plastic bowl
	Coats and rain gear
	Sleeping bags or other bedding
	A weather-appropriate change of clothes for each person
	Books, games, puzzles, toys and other activities for children
	Batteries and cell phone chargers
	Printer friendly emergency kit checklist