10 Essential Items Every Emergency Kit Must Have

Author:

Roland

Updated:

October 16, 2023

Reading Time:

2 minutes

Unexpected emergencies can happen at any time, anywhere. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared. If quick action is required, you’ll need access to certain supplies. To stay equipped for any situation, whether it’s a natural disaster or a simple power outage, here are the 10 most crucial items that every emergency kit must have.

1. Water

Water is undisputedly one of the most important essentials. It’s recommended to store around a three-day supply of water – around one gallon per person per day, for drinking and sanitation purposes.

2. Food

A three-day supply of non-perishable food items for each person is a must. Canned goods, energy bars and dried foods are excellent, long-lasting choices.

3. First Aid Kit

An exhaustive First Aid Kit that includes bandages, disinfectants, tweezers, medical tape, and a digital thermometer, will assist in handling injuries.

4. Medications

Keep a seven-day supply of necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter ones. Don’t forget to include children’s medications if necessary.

5. Multi-Tool

A multi-tool, which is essentially a compact toolbox, can come in handy for a number of emergency situations. It generally includes a knife, a can opener, screwdriver, and scissors.

6. Flashlight and Batteries

When the power goes out, a flashlight is indispensable. Always keep spare batteries along with it.

7. Whistle

A whistle is significantly louder than the human voice and requires less energy to use. It helps in signalling for help if you ever get lost or trapped.

8. Local Maps

Physical local maps can be a lifesaver as they can aid in finding evacuation routes in case technology fails or batteries go flat.

9. Personal Documents

Always store physical copies of personal identification documents like ID cards, passports, medical information or a list of emergency phone numbers. These documents can be crucial in getting the necessary help in times of distress.

10. Cash and Coins

In case of extended power outages where ATM machines or credit card systems fail, it’s important to keep a reasonable amount of cash and coins on hand as it’s the universal mode of transaction.

In conclusion, including these 10 essential items in your emergency kit can make a world of difference in a crisis situation. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so start prepping today!