How to Prepare an Emergency Kit

The Importance of an Emergency Kit

Being prepared for an emergency means having your own food, water and other supplies to last you for at least a few days. An emergency kit is a collection of basic household items you or your loved one might need in the event of an emergency.

We often don’t think about preparing for an emergency until it’s too late. By proactively creating an emergency kit, you are prepared in the event that there is an emergency.

6 Items to Put in An Emergency Kit

Fortunately, most of the recommended items for an emergency kit are inexpensive and easy to find. Here are just six of the recommended items you should include in your emergency kit:

1. Water. One gallon per person per day that will last three days is the recommended amount. The water can be used for drinking and sanitation purposes.

2. Food. The emergency kit should have at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food items. Some staple non-perishable food items include peanut butter, canned tuna, dehydrated foods, dried noodles and soup, concentrated juice boxes and powdered milk.

3. Battery-Powered Radio. This item is essential to remain connected to the outside world and to stay updated on what’s happening.

4. Flashlight. This will come in handy in a situation where the power has gone out.

5. First Aid Kit. A first aid kit is essential to have in an emergency kit, as it has all the supplies necessary if you become injured. A first aid kit should be regularly examined and be re-stocked after supplies are used to ensure it is well equipped in the event of an emergency.

6. Cell Phone. It is a good idea to buy a cheap cell phone and include it in the kit along with extra batteries and a charger. That way if an emergency takes out the power, you would still be able to use this backup phone to connect with others and get help.

It’s also important that you take into consideration the different items that you might specifically need. For instance, make sure your emergency kit is prepared with an adequate amount of prescriptions, contacts/glasses, personal hygiene items and important family documents, such as insurance paperwork and bank account information.

How to Maintain an Emergency Kit

Now that you’re familiar with the list of essential items you should include an emergency kit, you’re probably wondering how you can keep the kit safe until it’s needed. Here are a few tips on how to maintain the kit:

4. 4. 1. Store boxed food items tightly closed in plastic containers.
      2. Replace expired items as needed.
      3. Keep canned food in a cool and dry place.
      4. Re-evaluate needs every year and update the kit accordingly.

By following these simple precautions, you will be able to ensure you are prepared for almost any emergency that comes their way.

Where to Store an Emergency Kit

Another good practice to follow is to make more than one emergency kit and store them in different places. Since you are unable to predict when an emergency will occur, you should prepare supplies for your house, car and work location.

4. 4. 1. Home. This kit should be in a readily available location in case you need to leave home quickly.

4. 4. 2. Car. Keep a kit in your car in case you are stranded and in need of emergency supplies on the road.

4. 4. 3. Work. Have a “grab and go” kit at your place of work (if you are still working) in the event that you would need to shelter in place for at least 24 hours.

Be Safe and Prepared at Episcopal SeniorLife

At Episcopal SeniorLife Communities, the health and safety of our residents is our top priority. At our vibrant retirement communities, we offer seniors a complete array of high quality senior living options and services, which includes our focus on health and wellness programs, like our Neighborhood Programs, that allow seniors to healthily age in place.

To learn more about the senior living and care options available, please contact us today at 585-546-8400. We look forward to speaking with you.