Preparedness Kits and Specialty Go-Bags
Preparedness is easiest when it is practical. National guidance consistently recommends building kits that support basic needs, communication, health, and safety during disruptions such as storms, power outages, evacuations, or sheltering in place. A simple approach is to keep one general "grab and go" kit and then maintain smaller specialty kits for specific situations or family members.
These lists are designed for quick planning and printing. Choose what fits your household, your health needs, and your likely risks. Review kits every 3 months to refresh medications, batteries, food, and seasonal clothing.
The Personal Effects Go-Bag
This bag protects identity, access, and continuity. Keep it in a safe place and consider a waterproof container for documents.
- Driver's license
- Passport
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- Insurance information
- Local maps
- Bank account information
- Prescription medications
- Index card with emergency contacts
- Cash for outages
- Irreplaceable items
Tip: Store documents in a waterproof pouch.
The Technology Go-Bag
Communication and power are often limited during emergencies. Keep the basics ready so you can receive alerts, contact family, and access information.
- Cell phone and chargers
- Laptop or tablet and chargers
- School or remote work supplies
- Notepad and writing utensils
- Portable power bank
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries stored separately
Personal Medical Supply Bag
Health needs do not pause during disasters. Plan for routine care, mobility supports, and basic first aid. If you use medical devices, include backup supplies when possible.
- Personal toiletries
- Prescription medications
- Medical equipment
- Dust mask
- Tourniquet
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape
- First aid kit including:
- Over the counter medication
- Bandages and gauze
- Medical tape and scissors
- Antibiotic ointment
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Alcohol wipes
- Disposable gloves
- Hand sanitizer
Tip: Add accommodations for disability or access needs and identify who assists with care.
Home Preparedness Kit
If you need to stay home during a storm or outage, this kit supports safe sheltering and reduces stress. Plan for at least three days of essential supplies.
- Towels and moist wipes
- Garbage bags and ties
- Zip bags
- Food and water for at least three days
- One gallon of water per person per day
- Nonperishable foods and snacks
Emergency Hardware Kit
This kit supports safety, basic repairs, and the ability to stay informed when utilities or services are disrupted.
- Whistle
- Hand crank or battery powered radio
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape
- Manual can opener
- Wrench and pliers
- Multi tool
- Flashlights and batteries
Child and Infant Go-Bag
Children need familiar items and routine. Pack enough for comfort and hygiene and plan for feeding needs.
- Formula and food
- Bottles
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Rash cream
- Infant medications
Pet Emergency Prep Kit
Pets are part of the household plan. Pack enough food, water, and documentation to support temporary relocation or sheltering.
- Pet food
- Water
- Pet medications
- ID collar
- Leash
- Carrier
- Food and water bowls
- Adoption papers
- Medical records
Preparedness Planning and Learning Resources
If you want a simple starting point, Ready.gov is a strong place to begin. It includes checklists and guidance for building kits, making plans, and staying informed.
Ready.gov - Build a Kit: https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit
Additional resources you may find helpful:
- American Red Cross - Emergency Preparedness
- CDC - Public Health Emergency Preparedness
- National Institutes of Health
- World Health Organization - Emergencies
Printable Go-Bag Tags
Print, cut out, and tape to the outside of your bag. Keep details simple and avoid listing information you would not want visible in a shared setting.
Name: _______________________________
Role: ________________________________
Phone: ______________________________
Emergency Contact: ___________________
Medications or Needs: ____________________________________
Allergies: _______________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________________
Privacy reminder - keep sensitive details inside your bag, not on the outside.
