Build a Kit

​In many instances, when a natural or man-made disaster strikes, you will not have enough time to get prepared, find emergency contact information, and gather important documents or basic emergency supplies, like medicines, food and water. In order to be prepared for any type of emergency, it is importatnt that you prepare ahead of time. Start by gathering and storing supplies that you might need. Copy important documents such as home and medical insurance policies, medical information, credit card, bank accounts and other financial documents. Take time now to Safeguard Critical Documents & Valuables.

Plan for Different Locations: Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency or disaster strikes, make a plan and have an emergency kit for different locations. Think of places where you and your family spend the most time. 

Home Kit 

Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is stored. In case you would need to - Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is stored. In case you would need to evacuate, make the kit portable by storing items in a large duffle bag or plastic storage container. See Checklist of Basic Emergency Supplies. For more information on building an emergency kit, go to: Ready.gov/kit        

Car Kit 

Don't be caught in a traffic jam, highway accident, or a breakdown without needed supplies - like jumper cables, a flare, a glass breaker or mobile phone. You might be stuck for a long time in either extreme heat or cold, so consider the weather when creating your car kit. Consider storing the following items: blanket, gloves, an ice scraper, litter for traction and a small hand shovel during cold weather and snow. During the heat, be sure to travel with plenty of ice water to keep you cool. Check the weather and road conditions (WV511) before traveling. Sometime, it's best to stay home. For more info, see Car Safety and Edmund's DIY Emergency Car Kit  

School Kit  

Help K to 12 graders and college bound students be prepared in case of an emergency. Primary school age children could keep extra food and water in their backpacks. Include a backpack emergency information card with contacts and critical medical information. If they take medicines regularly, or for a current health issue, check with school guidelines for bringing and administering medicines. College-bound students can prepare a "home​-kit" for their dorm or apartment, as well as essentials for their car. Be sure to have them learn about their campus’s emergency plans, protocols and safety officers.

Pet Kit  

Don't forget your furry friends! They will need extra water and food too, at least a 3-day supply. Include any medicines, a crate or carrier, collar or harness with ID tags, rabies tag and leash, photo of you and your pet in case you get separated. supplies for sanitation and other essentials. Also, keep a list of Pet Friendly Hotels in your pet's emergency kit in case you have to evacuate. See the Pet Prep Brochure

Are you MOVING with PETS? Check out these planning tips for MOVING with Pets.​