Family Emergency Plan: Essential Three-Day Home Disaster Kit

Every household should have a basic three-day disaster kit to stay self-reliant during emergencies. This guide will help you assemble an essential kit, covering water, food, communication, lighting, and more to ensure your family’s safety and comfort until assistance arrives.

Water: The Lifeline

Each person needs one gallon of water per day. Stock up on bottled water to meet this requirement. Consider including N95 masks for air quality protection if airborne debris is a concern.

Stocking Up on Food

Store a three-day supply of non-perishable food for each family member. Use pantry items you already buy but store extra in case of outages. Canned, dehydrated, or other non-perishable foods work well, especially items that don’t require refrigeration.

Staying Connected

A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, ideally with NOAA weather capabilities, is essential for staying informed. These radios keep you updated on weather alerts and emergency instructions if the power is out.

Lighting and First Aid

Have a reliable flashlight and a first aid kit readily accessible. A whistle is also useful for signaling in emergencies. Simple tools like these can make a big difference during critical moments.

Protecting Yourself

Keep N95 masks or similar for each family member to ensure safe breathing if there is debris in the air. Quality masks filter out particulate matter better than standard surgical masks.

Shelter-In-Place Essentials

Have plastic sheeting and duct tape on hand for sealing windows and doors during hazardous material events. Follow local emergency management guidance for sheltering-in-place procedures.

Handling Waste and Utilities

Sturdy contractor-grade trash bags are useful for waste management, especially if services are disrupted. Additionally, have a multi-tool or wrench for turning off utilities and a manual can opener for accessing non-perishable food.

Navigation and Communication

• Local Maps: Keep a map in case GPS is down and you need to navigate manually.
• Cell Phone and Chargers: Ensure you have a cell phone with vehicle and home chargers, along with a power bank for backup power.

Final Thoughts

Creating a three-day home disaster kit is a simple way to prepare for unexpected events. With some planning and basic supplies, you can help ensure your family’s comfort and safety during emergencies. Preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated, and it pays off when it matters most.