The basics

During an emergency you may be without electricity or running water. You should have some basic supplies prepared so you and your family can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Make sure your family’s emergency kit is easy to carry. For example, keep it in a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase with wheels. Store it in an easily accessible place and make sure everyone knows where it is. Check your kit twice a year and replace any outdated items. Food and water should be replaced once a year.

Basic emergency kit:

Water (at least two litres per person per day). Use small bottles that can be carried in case of an evacuation order.

Food that won’t spoil, such as canned or dried foods and energy bars.

Manual can opener Wind-up or battery-powered radio (and extra batteries)

Wind-up or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries)

Cash (small bills) and change (for pay phones)

First-aid kit

Extra keys for your car and house Emergency plan and contact information

Medications, important documents, infant formula, pet food, special items for family members with disabilities or special needs, or any other items necessary to personalize your kit

Recommended additional items:

Additional two litres of water per person per day (for cooking, cleaning, etc.)

Change of clothing and footwear for each family member Blankets or sleeping bags Toiletries

Hand sanitizer

Plastic garbage bags Utensils

Toilet paper Household chlorine bleach or water purifying tablets

Basic tools (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, wrench, work gloves, dust mask, pocket knife)

Small fuel-driven stove with fuel (follow manufacturer’s directions and store properly)

Duct tape (e.g. to tape up windows, doors, air vents, etc.)

Whistle (to attract attention)

Car emergency kit:

Shovel

Ice scraper and brush Sand, salt or kitty litter; traction mats

Booster cables

Tow chain

Methyl hydrate (for fuel line and windshield de-icing)

First-aid kit Fire extinguisher Wind-up or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries) Road maps

Warning light or road flares Emergency food pack

Extra clothing and footwear Cloth or roll of paper towels Axe or hatchet

Compass

Matches and a “survival” candle in a deep can (to warm hands, heat a drink or use as an emergency light)

Blanket (special “survival” blankets are best)

Evacuation “Go Kit”:

In the event that you have to evacuate your home a portable emergency “go kit” is also recommended. Your kit should include:

Copies of important documents (Insurance papers, deeds, wills)

Seven-day supply of prescription medications

Local map

Extra clothing and footwear Cash (small bills) and change (for pay phones)

Extra keys for your car and house Emergency plan and contact information

Infant formula, pet food, special items for family members with disabilities or special needs, or any other items necessary to personalize your kit