Fall is a great time to reflect on ourselves and our families. With large holidays coming up centered around our families, friends, and those we love, it’s a great time to evaluate how prepared you and your family are for an emergency.

Check out our recommendations for building an emergency bag for your family:

Essential Supplies:

• Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days (including pets).
• Non-perishable food: At least a three-day supply for each family member, including baby formula and pet food.
• Manual can opener.
• First aid kit: Include necessary medications, bandages, antiseptic wipes, etc.
• Personal hygiene items: Such as soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toothbrushes, and toothpaste.
• Important documents: Store copies of identification, insurance papers, medical records, and contact information in a waterproof container.
• Cash: Keep a small amount of cash in case ATMs are unavailable during evacuations.
• Maps: Local area maps and an evacuation route plan.
• Flashlights and extra batteries.
• Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife.

Clothing and Comfort:

• Extra clothing and sturdy shoes for each family member.
• Blankets or sleeping bags for warmth.
• Comfort items: Toys, books, or games for small children to ease anxiety during the evacuation.

Special Considerations for Small Children:

• Diapers and wipes: Enough for at least three days.
• Baby food and formula: Pack enough to last the duration of the evacuation.
• Baby bottles and feeding supplies.
• Child-size face masks: In case of poor air quality.
• Baby carrier or sling for easy transportation.
• Any necessary comfort items: Pacifiers, blankets, favorite stuffed animals, etc.

Special Considerations for Elderly Family Members:

• Medications: Have a supply of prescription medications to last during the evacuation.
• Medical equipment: If applicable, include items like hearing aids, glasses, walkers, etc.
• Extra mobility aids: Canes or walking sticks, if needed.

Pet Essentials:

• Food and water: Enough for at least three days.
• Collapsible food and water dishes.
• Leashes, harnesses, or carriers for transportation.
• Pet medications and medical records.
• Toys or comfort items for pets.
• Waste bags for cleanup.
• Current photo of your pet: In case they become lost during the evacuation.

Additional Items:

• Cell phone and charger.
• Battery-operated or hand-crank radio.
• Extra keys for your home and vehicle.
• Matches or lighters in a waterproof container.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Face masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers.

Family Specific Items:

• Consider your family's specific needs, such as prescription glasses, hearing aids, special dietary requirements, or medical conditions.

Regularly Review and Update:

• Check your emergency kit regularly and replace any expired items.
• Review your family's needs and adjust the kit as necessary based on changing circumstances.

As your local emergency responders, we’re passionate about educating and empowering our community to put their safety first and take steps to be better prepared for emergencies. Save this as a checklist and build your emergency kit today, so you’re ready for any emergencies that may quickly arise tomorrow or the following days.