Disasters can occur quickly and without warning. And when an emergency strikes, it can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. If a destructive storm cut off your power, phone and other basic services for several days, or if a chemical spill or other hazard forced you to stay in your home, what would you do?

Your family will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit now — once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. Be prepared — build a kit!

To prepare your kit
You should keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Build a Disaster Supplies Kit to take with you in an evacuation.

The basics you should stock in your portable kit include: water, food, first aid supplies, a change of clothing and blanket or sleeping bag, emergency tools (like flashlights, radio, batteries), and special items for infants, elderly or disabled. Keep these items in an easy-to carry container-such as a covered trash container, a large backpack, or a duffle bag. 

Wondering what you should have at your workplace?  Check out our info on your Personal Workplace Disaster Supplies Kit. (pdf)

Disaster Kits Available

Disaster and First Aid Kits are available for purchase from most local American Red Cross chapters.  Proceeds from all sales also help us provide Red Cross services in your communities! 

Red Cross Family Disaster Preparedness Calendar - Print out guide with steps to take towards home and family preparedness all in an easy to follow 24-week calendar.    (pdf)

Water

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