Preparation is key to surviving many types of disasters, specifically the types that may require immediate evacuation of you and your loved ones. The emergency container consists of the necessary items your family would most likely require to stay safe during and following a disaster, and should be stored in a portable container as close to the exit door as possible.

Emergency Container Supplies

Your emergency container should include the following items. It is recommended to get as many of the items on the list as possible, however, if you are unable to procure everything, gather as much as you can as it is better than not having an emergency container at all.

Water and Food is Essential

If forced to evacuate, three days is usually the minimum amount of time that you will be displaced from your home. Collect 3 days worth of nonperishable food items and be sure to include a manual can opener in your container. Water is also essential, so pack one gallon of water per person, per day for the three day period. If you are a parent with an infant, be sure to pack supplies like diapers, formula, bottles, and pacifiers.

Medicinal Items

You should also include medicinal items such as a first aid kit (and manual), prescription medications, eyeglasses or contacts and solution, hand sanitizer, moist wipes, and toilet paper.

Stay Warm with Clothing and Blankets

Warmth is another essential survival element to prepare for, specifically if you are living in a cold climate. Consider the possibility of not having heat during or after a disaster, and prepare your clothing and bedding needs. One person will require items like a Jacket, long pants, sweater, sturdy shoes, hat, mittens, scarf, and a sleeping bag or warm blanket.

Financial and Identification Information

If you don’t carry these items on your person, be sure to include personal emergency cards, identification, social security card, proof of medical insurance, credit card, cash and coins in your emergency container.

Other Items of Importance

Some other items that are important to pack are portable battery-powered radio and extra batteries, flashlight and extra batteries, windproof matches in waterproof container, whistle, tools, local maps, and any other items to meet your family needs.