Emergency kit checklist
Emergency kits should include essential supplies and reflect the unique needs of each member of your household, including pets. Think about items they would need to stay safe and comfortable for at least 3 days (72 hours), whether you need to evacuate or shelter in place.
Where to start
- What you need may depend on where you live and who is in your home so your emergency kit should be tailored to your unique needs. For example, people in remote areas may need extra items
- Check with your local, provincial, or territorial government to see what else you should include
- If you can, add more supplies in case the emergency lasts longer
- Build an emergency kit over time with items from your home
- Start with assembling basic supplies, documentation and medical equipment before moving to additional supplies
- Your emergency kit should be easy to take with you in the event of an evacuation. If needed, create separate grab and go bags for each member of your household
Basic emergency kit checklist
Important documents
Medical and other important items
Additional supplies
Grab and go bags
Managing emergency supplies and kits
Use the time change in spring and fall to swap or update supplies. Keep items organized in clear plastic bags or containers so you can easily find what you need.
- Check expiry dates on perishable food, water, medications, insurance, credit cards, and identification
- Spring/summer: rain jacket, umbrella, bug spray, waterproof footwear, sunscreen, hats, fan, etc.
- Fall/winter: warm clothing, heat packs, candle/lighter, extra batteries, gloves, socks, ice grippers, portable shovel, heat packs, etc.