Emergency Preparedness Supplies List

By Nate Baker

Having the right emergency preparedness supplies on hand can make the difference between staying safe and scrambling during a crisis. Whether you’re preparing for storms, power outages, floods, wildfires, or long-term disruptions, a well-thought-out emergency preparedness list helps protect your family, home, and essential needs.

This guide provides a comprehensive checklist for emergency preparedness you can use to build or improve your own plan.

Water & Hydration Supplies

infographic depicting you should plan for 14 days of water and 2-3 gallons per person for emergency water storage
  • Stored drinking water (minimum 1 gallon per person per day), but we recommend going the extra mile with 2 gallons per person.
  • Long-term water storage tanks or barrels
  • Portable water containers
  • Water purification tablets or liquid treatment
  • Water filtration system or gravity filter
  • Collapsible water jugs for transport

Food & Nutrition

  • Non-perishable food (canned goods, rice, beans, pasta)
  • Freeze-dried or dehydrated meals
  • Manual can opener
  • High-calorie emergency food bars
  • Baby food or formula (if applicable)
  • Pet food and treats

Power, Light & Communication

  • Flashlights (LED preferred)
  • Extra batteries (multiple sizes)
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Solar phone chargers or power banks
  • Emergency candles or lanterns
  • Backup generator (with fuel stored safely)

First Aid & Medical Supplies

  • Comprehensive first aid kit
  • Prescription medications (at least 7 days)
  • Pain relievers and fever reducers
  • Bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes
  • Medical gloves and masks
  • Thermometer

Personal Hygiene & Sanitation

  • Toilet paper and paper towels
  • Baby wipes and disinfecting wipes
  • Trash bags (heavy-duty)
  • Hand sanitizer and soap
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Portable toilet or bucket with liners

Clothing & Shelter

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Sturdy shoes or boots
  • Hats, gloves, and rain gear
  • Emergency blankets or sleeping bags
  • Tents or tarps
infographic of the types of supplies that should be included in an emergency preparedness checklist

Tools & Safety Equipment

  • Multi-tool or basic tool kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Duct tape and plastic sheeting
  • Whistle for signaling
  • Work gloves and safety goggles
  • Crowbar or wrench (for shutting off utilities)

Documents & Financial Preparedness

  • Copies of IDs and insurance policies
  • Emergency contact list
  • Cash in small bills
  • USB drive with important digital files
  • Map of your local area

Family & Special Needs Supplies

  • Infant supplies (diapers, formula)
  • Supplies for elderly family members
  • Medical equipment or mobility aids
  • Comfort items for children
  • Pet carriers, leashes, and vaccination records

Plan for Emergency Preparedness

Supplies alone are not enough. A complete plan for emergency preparedness should include evacuation routes, communication plans, meeting locations, and clear responsibilities for each family member. Review and practice your plan at least once a year.

Emergency Preparedness Supplies FAQs

How much water should I store for emergencies?

stacked view of Emergency Water Tanks' 30-gallon portable stackable storage tanks

Store at least one gallon per person per day for a minimum of three days. Many preparedness experts recommend enough water for 7–14 days when possible. These durable plastic tanks are the best way to prepare:

How often should I rotate emergency supplies?

Check food, water, batteries, and medications every 6–12 months. Replace expired items and refresh stored water as recommended.

What is the most commonly forgotten emergency supply?

Water is the most underestimated supply. Many households store food but fail to store enough safe drinking water.

Should I have separate emergency kits?

Yes. Maintain a home kit, vehicle kit, and portable grab-and-go kit in case evacuation is required.

Is emergency preparedness only for natural disasters?

No. Power outages, water main failures, supply shortages, and infrastructure disruptions are all reasons to maintain a solid emergency preparedness list.

Did you know you can be a disaster volunteer? The world needs more of them, so check it out if you're interested.

Other helpful resources:

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