Why 72 Hours?

Emergency management experts widely recommend preparing to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours (three days) following a disaster. This is because local emergency responders may be overwhelmed, roads may be impassable, and utilities may be unavailable. A well-stocked emergency kit gives your household the resources to shelter in place or evacuate safely while help is mobilized.

Where to Store Your Kit

Keep your main kit in a cool, dry place that's easy to access quickly. Consider having multiple kits:

  • Home kit — your full 72-hour supply, ideally in a large waterproof bin or duffel bag
  • Go-bag — a lighter grab-and-go backpack near the door for fast evacuation
  • Car kit — basics stored in your vehicle for roadside emergencies

The Essential 72-Hour Kit Checklist

Water

  • One gallon of water per person, per day (three gallons per person minimum)
  • Extra water for pets
  • Water purification tablets or a portable filter as a backup

Food

  • Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (canned goods, dried fruit, nuts, granola bars)
  • Manual can opener
  • Baby formula or special dietary foods if needed
  • Rotate food stock every 6–12 months

First Aid

  • Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes
  • Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
  • Gauze pads and medical tape
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • Pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
  • Prescription medications (at least a 7-day supply)
  • First aid manual

Light and Communication

  • Flashlight with extra batteries (or a hand-crank model)
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio
  • Fully charged portable phone battery bank
  • Whistle to signal for help

Warmth and Shelter

  • Emergency Mylar blankets (one per person)
  • Extra warm clothing and sturdy shoes
  • Rain ponchos
  • Sleeping bags or blankets

Sanitation and Hygiene

  • Moist towelettes and hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and garbage bags
  • Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products)
  • Dust masks or N95 respirators

Documents and Tools

  • Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag: ID, insurance cards, bank info, medical records
  • Cash in small bills (ATMs may be offline)
  • Local paper map
  • Multi-tool or basic tool kit
  • Duct tape

Don't Forget Your Pets

Pets have their own emergency needs. Include pet food (at least 3 days' worth), water bowls, medications, vaccination records, a leash or carrier, and a recent photo of you with your pet in case you become separated.

Maintaining Your Kit

An emergency kit is only useful if it's current and functional. Set a calendar reminder every six months to:

  1. Check expiration dates on food, water, and medications.
  2. Test flashlights, radios, and battery banks.
  3. Update documents and emergency contact lists.
  4. Adjust supplies as your household changes (new family members, pets, medical needs).

Building your kit doesn't need to happen all at once. Start with the basics — water, food, and a first aid kit — and add items gradually. The important thing is to start before an emergency occurs.