72-Hour Supplies Kits

One of the best ways you can prepare for emergencies is to have enough supplies at home to feed and care for you and your family for at least three days following a crisis or disaster. This is called a 72 Hour Emergency Supplies Kit.

If it is safe to remain at home, people and pets will often be more comfortable and less stressed staying at home, versus relocating to an emergency shelter. Also, when residents who have been minimally impacted by a disaster can look after themselves, it allows emergency responders and municipal officials to focus on people who have perhaps suffered significant loss.

What to include in your kit

Store these items in an easy-to-carry container such as a duffel bag or plastic storage bin so that if you do need to leave home, you will easily be able to take your kit with you.

Your 72-Hour Emergency Supplies Kit should include the following items:

• Backpack, duffel bag, or small suitcase (to hold supplies)
• First aid
• Change of clothing
• Candles, matches
• Sleeping bags
• Prescription medications
• Personal hygiene (i.e., deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)
• Diapers, toilet paper, and other personal items
• Cell phone charger and power bank
• Flashlights or other portable light
• Batteries
• Hand sanitizer or moist towelettes
• Emergency Radio (battery, solar, or crank-powered)
• Zip-lock bags (to keep things dry)
• Duct tape
• Garbage bags
• Non-perishable food
• Can opener (manual)
• Bottled water (4 litres/person/day)
• Playing cards or travel games
• Car and house keys
• Cash (small bills)
• Copies of important family documents (copies should also be kept in a safe location outside your home)
• Whistle (to attract attention)
• Extra cash, including change.

Your 72 Hour Emergency Supplies Kit could prove to be very useful if electricity is lost or weather keeps you from leaving your home. You should bring your kit if you are advised to evacuate, so include any other items you think you might need. Being organized and having essential and comfort items with you will lessen the stress of evacuating.

Consider preparing an emergency kit for each of your vehicles as well. If you ever become stranded in a remote area or snowstorm, having some essential supplies may help keep you and your passengers safe.