20 Things You Need In Your Natural Disaster Emergency Kit

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Natural disasters are happening everywhere and every day. Are you prepared if something hits your home? Whether it be a flood, tornado, wildfire, or loss of power, being prepared for a disaster is what can save your life and the lives of others. Be smart and start acting today before something worse happens tomorrow.

1. Water

Red Cross says to have one gallon per person, per day. If you are being evacuated from your home, a 3-day supply is crucial, but if you are in your home to have a 2-week supply.

2. Food

Non perishable foods are a must. Your local McDonald’s will be closed, too. Cans work best, or easy to prepare meals like peanut butter sandwiches or on-the-go snacks such as pretzels and crackers.

3. Flashlight

During a power outage, your phone’s light won’t last forever. A battery operated flashlight will do the trick to light your way.

4. First Aid Kit

If you don’t already own a first aid kit, you need to have one. Having a kit at home and in your car will be a lifesaver when you least expect it. Don’t forget to include at least a 7 day supply of any medications you or a family member needs. You can make your own or buy a full kit online.

5. Battery-Powered Radio

Your power’s out, your cell phone doesn’t have a signal. What do you do? Radios like these come in handy when you need to take it old-school to hear the news about your situation.

6. Extra Clothes

You don’t know how long you may be out of the house due to a complete disaster, or your water may have been turned off and you can’t wash your clothes. Having a few spare tops and bottoms are a necessity for your survival kit.

7. Batteries

Again, no power, no problem. Batteries will save the day to charge your flashlight, radio, kids toys, and more. Batteries are a must during any natural disaster.

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8. Multi-Purpose Tool

This tool has it all: knife, scissors, pliers, wire-cutters, saw, screwdriver, and more. Having a multi-purpose tool is an ideal piece of equipment that can handle the outdoors, and if you end of being stuck or trapped, it can assist you on your escape.

9. Cell Phone and Chargers

I shouldn’t have to tell you this, but I put it on the list anyways. If you do lose power, a fully charged portable charger or charging phone case should do the trick.

10. Personal Hygiene Items

Staying healthy and clean should be a priority in a natural disaster since infections and sickness are all too common during these events. To do this, make sure to include hand sanitizer, a face mask, and wet wipes in your survival kit.

11. Personal Documents

If you lose your home during a disaster have these documents copied and ready to go: proof of address, birth certificates, insurance polices, passports, and more.

12. Cash

Better to have some extra cash saved for when a storm strikes. If your city loses power, your credit cards are useless.

13. Emergency Contact Information

You will never be warned of an earthquake, but if you live in an area that is known to have these devastating events, an emergency contact list is crucial. Make sure to include your relatives, doctors, neighbors, and more.

14. Extra Supplies

If you have a baby or children, include extra baby supplies to your kit. If you are taking care of an elderly person, having their medical supplies or hearing aids at hand is useful as well. Don’t forget to pack your essentials as well if you wear glasses or contacts. Never forget your pets! Pack some extra food for them, too!

15. Extra Set of Home and Car Keys

Having a little extra of everything never hurt anyone. Make sure to keep a spare key for all emergency situations.

16. Manual Can Opener

With all your canned food you’ve been hoarding, you have to open them somehow. If your cans don’t have a pull off lid, having a manual can opener will get the job done.

17. Matches

If you are stranded with no warmth, matches will be your new best friend. They can be used to start a fire in a safe location to keep from freezing during a natural disaster.

18. Umbrella

An umbrella can shelter you from rain, wind, and dirt. Use an umbrella as a make shift roof when you’re in a storm.

19. Work Gloves

You use your hands every day. Why would you think that would be any different when there’s a natural disaster? There will be tree branches, plywood, and more you might have to get around after the storm. It is best to protect your hands from cuts and sharp edges.