Home Emergency Prep

Important: This is general preparedness guidance, not professional safety or medical advice. For a real emergency, contact local emergency services and follow official instructions for your area.

Build a Basic Emergency Kit

Keep a kit in an easy-to-reach spot. Restock and check it every few months (batteries and food expire).

Category	Items
Water & food	1 gallon of water per person per day; non-perishable food, manual can opener
Light	Flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio
First aid	Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, any daily medications
Tools	Multi-tool, duct tape, basic tools, work gloves
Hygiene	Toiletries, hand sanitizer, moist towelettes
Documents	Copies of IDs, insurance, and important papers in a waterproof bag
Comfort	Blankets, a change of clothes, sturdy shoes

Know Your Shutoffs

Knowing where and how to turn off your utilities is one of the most valuable things you can prepare.

Water: Locate the main water shutoff valve and test that it works.
Electricity: Know where your breaker panel is and which breakers control which areas.
Gas: Know the location of the gas shutoff. Only shut it off if you smell gas or are instructed to — and know it should only be turned back on by a professional.

Make a Family Plan

Agree on meeting points: One near home and one outside the neighborhood in case you can't return.
Know emergency numbers: Post local emergency and contact numbers where everyone can see them.
Plan for pets: Decide who handles pets and where they'd go in an evacuation.
Prepare a grab-and-go bag: If you may need to leave quickly, keep essentials ready.

Power Outage & Storm Prep

Scenario	What to Do
Power outage	Use flashlights (not candles), keep fridge/freezer closed, unplug sensitive electronics
Storm warning	Secure loose outdoor items, bring in or tie down anything that could blow around
Extreme cold/heat	Have a plan to stay warm or cool; know where to go if power is lost
Heavy rain/flooding	Move valuables up high, know your evacuation route, don't drive through floodwater

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Safety

Install detectors: Smoke detectors on every level and outside bedrooms; a carbon monoxide detector where required.
Test monthly: Press the test button and replace batteries regularly.
Practice fire escape: Have a plan and practice it with your family, including two ways out of each room.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water should I store?

A common guideline is about one gallon per person per day for at least three days — for drinking and basic sanitation. Adjust for pets and your climate.

How often should I update my emergency kit?

Check it every 3–6 months: replace expired food, water, and batteries, and update documents and medications as things change.

What should I do during a fire in my home?

Get everyone out immediately using your escape plan, call emergency services from outside, and do not go back in for belongings. Know where to meet outside.