The 72-hour home

Most useful preparedness starts at home. Before shopping for specialized equipment, make a simple inventory of what your household would need during a disruption to water, electricity, communications, or transportation.

Begin with people, not products

List everyone in the home, including pets, and note medications, accessibility needs, baby supplies, and anything that cannot be easily replaced. Store a printed contact list and a basic communication plan where household members can find them.

Cover the fundamentals

For emergency water, FEMA recommends at least one gallon per person per day for several days, including drinking and basic sanitation. Your actual needs may be higher in hot weather or for particular medical circumstances. Add shelf-stable food that fits your household's dietary needs, a manual can opener, flashlights, spare batteries, a first-aid kit, a radio, chargers, and any essential medications.

Make the kit practical

Place a core set of supplies in an accessible location. Keep a smaller go-bag for occasions when you need to leave. Include pet supplies where applicable. Choose familiar, reliable items rather than novelty survival gadgets, and check expiration dates twice a year.

Know what happens next

Write down a place to meet, an out-of-area contact, and a plan for receiving official alerts. The best kit is one your family knows how to use.

Further reading: Ready.gov emergency kit guidance and family emergency planning.

Editorial note: We have not independently tested every equipment type discussed. Verify current guidance with appropriate authorities and product manufacturers.