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Kit lists · Ready.gov (FEMA, U.S. Department of Homeland Security)

Build A Kit

Ready.gov never states 72 hours or 3 days: kit, water, food and the printable checklist all say "several days", so target_hours is null and the score engine needs its own default for the US. The gallon covers drinking and sanitation; the water page adds that hot weather can double needs and children, nursing mothers and sick people may need more. Items split into a basic kit (essential) and "Additional Emergency Supplies" to consider (not essential).

Official page: www.ready.gov/kit · checked 2026-11-02 · page updated 2026-07-01

People2
Pets0
Babies0

Water

  • WaterWater (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)“one gallon per person per day for several days”6 gallons

Food

  • Non-perishable foodFood (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)“at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food”For 2
  • Mess kits, cups, plates, paper towels and utensilsOptionalMess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

News and information

  • Battery or hand-crank radio and NOAA Weather RadioBattery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • Local maps
  • Paper and pencilOptional

Light

  • Flashlight
  • Matches in a waterproof containerOptional

Health and first aid

  • First aid kit
  • Dust maskDust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
  • Prescription medicationsOptionalFor 2
  • Non-prescription medicationsOptionalNon-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
  • Prescription glasses and contact lens solutionOptionalPrescription eyeglasses and contact lens solutionFor 2

Power

  • Extra batteries
  • Backup phone batteryCell phone with chargers and a backup batteryFor 2

Tools

  • WhistleWhistle (to signal for help)
  • Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tapePlastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape (to shelter in place)
  • Wrench or pliersWrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • Manual can openerManual can opener (for food)
  • Fire extinguisherOptional
  • Books, games, puzzles or activities for childrenOptionalBooks, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Hygiene

  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic tiesMoist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipesOptionalSoap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene itemsOptionalFor 2

Staying in touch

  • Cell phone with chargersCell phone with chargers and a backup batteryFor 2

Money

  • Cash or traveler's checksOptional

Documents

  • Important family documentsOptionalImportant family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records

Warmth

  • Sleeping bag or warm blanketOptionalSleeping bag or warm blanket for each person“Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person”2
  • Change of clothing and sturdy shoesOptionalComplete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoesFor 2