Free printable
72-Hour Home Emergency Checklist
Based on the FEMA Ready.gov basic disaster supplies kit and Red Cross advice. Print it, tape it to your kit lid and check it twice a year.
Water and food
- Water: 1 gallon per person per day, for 3 days
- Food that does not spoil, for 3 days
- Manual can opener
- Paper plates, cups and utensils
Light and power
- Flashlight for each person
- Extra batteries
- Battery or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio)
- Phone chargers and a backup battery pack
First aid and health
- First aid kit
- Prescription medicine (ask your doctor or pharmacist)
- Glasses or contact lens supplies
- Baby formula, diapers and wipes if needed
- Hand sanitizer and moist towelettes
Tools and safety
- Whistle
- Dust masks
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Battery CO alarm on each floor
Papers and cash
- Copies of IDs, insurance and bank papers in a waterproof bag
- Cash in small bills
- Local maps
- Written list of phone numbers
Comfort and cleanup
- Garbage bags and plastic ties
- Change of clothes and sturdy shoes
- Blanket or sleeping bag for each person
- Soap, toothbrushes and hygiene items
- Pet food, water and leash
Twice a year
- Swap water you bottled yourself
- Eat and replace food near its date
- Test flashlights, radio and CO alarms
- Check medicine dates
- Update phone list and papers
Want the why behind each item? Read the full 72-hour home emergency checklist guide.
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The Ready Homestead. General information only, not medical, legal or electrical advice.