Prepare Emergency Kits

Did you know?
During an emergency you should be ready to look after yourself and your family for at least 72 hours. This allows the first responders to assist those in need.

Unexpected situations happen every day. But it is possible to plan and prepare for them – follow these tips on what to think about for your emergency kits.

72-Hour Kit

You should be self-sufficient in an emergency for at least 72 hours. This allows emergency workers to focus on people who require urgent assistance. Plan to be without power, water, cell phone service and internet.
Stock up on a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
Replenish stored food and water that are near or past the expiry date.
Think about adding one new item to your kit each year, such as an emergency radio, water purification bottle, fire extinguisher, portable generator, or a non-electric standby stove or heater.
Check to see if your battery-powered emergency items are working? Do you have a supply of replacement batteries available?
Have you made renovations to your home which require revisiting your emergency exit plans?
Are your contacts up to date, or are there new ones to add?

Evacuation Grab & Go List

An Evacuation Grab & Go list is used when you have little or no notice to leave your home (like a flood or fire). It provides you with a list of valuable items and is a critical part of your emergency supplies.
Do you have a copy of your important documents? Have any of these documents changed? Are they listed?
Have you gathered any new priceless or irreplaceable items over the past year? Are they listed on your Evacuation Grab & Go checklist?
Think about medications that may be new to you or your family members. Are they listed? Do you need different health-related supplies?
Think about everyday items that you use: small but important things like specialized baby food, pet food, medications and comfort items.

Vehicle Emergency Kit

As the weather changes, so should your supplies!
Make sure you have a scraper, snowbrush and extra warm clothing in the winter.
Check if your booster cables and reflective cones are still accessible.
Pack a blanket, cell phone charger and a small first aid kit in your vehicle.
Replenish perishable snack items.
Grab a flashlight and batteries!

Pet Emergency Kit

Pets are an important part of any family and need to be considered in case of an emergency.
Do you have extra food and medical supplies on hand and ready to go if you need to evacuate with your pet?

What Do I Include?

The City has developed checklists that you can use to build your own emergency kits.

How often should I review?

Review your emergency kits at least twice a year. A good time to inspect your kit is when you are changing your clocks. Check that all items are in working order, replace food, water and batteries, and use your checklist to ensure that your kit is still complete.

Last edited: April 11, 2024

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