Being prepared at home means having supplies to sustain your household when normal services are disrupted. Power outages, severe weather, and other emergencies can make stores inaccessible and utilities unreliable. Proper supplies let you shelter in place safely and comfortably.
Start with basics and expand over time. Not everything needs to be purchased at once. Build your supplies gradually, starting with the most critical items and adding as budget allows.
Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Stored water: minimum 3 days, ideally 2 weeks
- Water storage containers (food-grade)
- Water purification tablets or drops
- Water filter (for backup supply)
- Bleach (unscented, for water treatment)
Food (3 to 14 day supply)
- Canned goods (vegetables, fruits, meat, fish)
- Dried goods (rice, pasta, beans, oats)
- Peanut butter and nut butters
- Crackers and granola bars
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Comfort foods (coffee, tea, chocolate)
- Baby food and formula if needed
- Pet food if needed
- Manual can opener (multiple)
- Disposable plates, cups, utensils
First Aid and Medical
- Complete first aid kit
- Prescription medications (2 week supply)
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Antihistamines
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Antacids
- Thermometer
- Glasses or contact lenses (backup pair)
- Hearing aid batteries if needed
- Medical equipment supplies if needed
Light and Power
- Flashlights (multiple, LED preferred)
- Batteries (various sizes, stock up)
- Battery lantern or camping lantern
- Candles and matches/lighters
- Portable power bank for phones
- Solar charger or hand-crank charger
- Portable power station (optional but valuable)
- Generator and fuel (if space allows)
Communication
- Battery or hand-crank radio (NOAA weather band)
- Phone chargers (wall, car, portable)
- Two-way radios for family communication
- Emergency contact list (written)
- Out-of-area contact designated
- Paper maps of local area
Tools and Supplies
- Multi-tool or basic tool kit
- Duct tape
- Plastic sheeting
- Rope or paracord
- Work gloves
- Dust masks or N95 respirators
- Safety goggles
- Fire extinguisher
- Wrench for utility shutoffs
- Whistle for signaling
Hygiene and Sanitation
- Toilet paper (ample supply)
- Soap and hand sanitizer
- Feminine hygiene products
- Diapers and wipes if needed
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Trash bags (heavy duty)
- Bucket with lid (emergency toilet)
- Bleach or disinfectant
- Paper towels
Shelter and Warmth
- Emergency blankets (mylar)
- Warm blankets and sleeping bags
- Change of warm clothing
- Rain gear
- Sturdy shoes
- Tent (if needed for shelter backup)
- Tarps
Important Documents
- Copies of IDs and passports
- Insurance policies
- Bank account information
- Medical records
- Property documents
- Emergency contact list
- Waterproof container for documents
Cash and Financial
- Cash in small bills ($100 to $500)
- Coins for vending machines
- Credit card backup
Maintenance Checklist
- Check water and food expiration dates quarterly
- Test batteries and replace as needed
- Review and update medications
- Test flashlights and radios
- Review emergency contact information
- Check fire extinguisher gauge
- Update document copies annually
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does basic preparedness cost?
A basic setup can be assembled for $100 to $300. Build gradually to spread costs. Many items are things you should have anyway.
Where should I store emergency supplies?
Cool, dry, dark locations extend shelf life. Closets, basements, and dedicated pantry areas work well. Keep accessible but protected from temperature extremes.
How often should I check supplies?
Review quarterly. Check expiration dates, test equipment, and replace used or expired items. Schedule a recurring reminder.
What about apartment living with limited space?
Focus on compact, essential items. Under beds, closet floors, and vertical storage maximize limited space. Even small reserves provide significant resilience.
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general guidance. Adjust based on your specific needs, climate, and household requirements.