Build A Kit

Build a Kit

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

213-2131495_click-here-button-black-and-whiteDownload a printable version to take with you to the store. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.


A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

Food & Water

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Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation).

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Food (at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food).

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Hand-operator can opener.

Check MarkPlastic plates, cups, and utensils
Check MarkBaby Items (baby food, formula, bottles, diapers) 

First Aid and Hygiene Supplies

Check MarkFirst Aid Kit
Check MarkBackup prescriptions and medications.
Check MarkToilet paper, paper towels, garbage bags.
Check MarkHearing and vision products (hearing aids and batteries, glasses, contact lenses, contact lens solution, sunglasses).

Communication & Lighting

Check MarkFlashlight for each family member.
Check MarkWaterproof matches or a utility lighter.
Check MarkCash and 4 rolls of quarters.
Check MarkExtra batteries for flashlights, lanterns, and weather radio. 
Check MarkWhistle.
Check MarkPortable, battery-powered NOAA weather radio. 
Check MarkCell phone charger with power brick and cord.

Clean Air Items

Check MarkCloth face covering (N-95 maks if available.
Check MarkPlastic sheeting and duck tape (to seal doors, windows, and air vents from contaminated air or to build an emergency shelter.)

Household Items

Check MarkFire extinguisher.
Check MarkShovel and basic tools. 
Check MarkGas and water shutoff.

Car Emergency Essentials

Check MarkFire Extinguisher.
Check MarkMap of Texas. 
Check MarkFirst Aid Kit.
Check MarkCar Phone Charger.
Check MarkCash. 
Check MarkRepair Items (tools, spare tire, oil). 

First Aid Kit Items

Check Mark2 Compress dressings (5x9 inches)
Check Mark25 band-aids (all sizes) 
Check MarkFirst Aid Tape.
Check MarkAntibiotic ointment. 
Check MarkHydrocortisone ointment.
Check MarkAspirin, iduprofen or acetaminiphen. 
Check Mark2 par of medical gloves (non-latex).
Check MarkOral thermometer, scissors, tweezers.
Check Mark2 roller bandages (different widths). 
Check Mark2 elastic bandages.
Check Mark10 sterile gauze pads (different sizes).
Check Mark2 triangular bandages (for slings). 


Important Documents Bag

Check MarkCurrent photo IDs, driver's licenses, birth records, Social Security cards, and passports (always keep your Social Security number separate from other documents to decrease the risk of identity theft). 
Check MarkCurrent photos of family members in case you get separated. 
Check MarkHealth Insurance and prescription cards. 
Check MarkPhone numbers (family, friends, doctors)
Check MarkBank account informaiton. 
Check MarkInsurance documents (homeowner, renter, flood, car).
Check MarkUtility bills (to prove where you live). 
Check MarkProperty deeds, leases, mortgages. 
Check MarkWills.
Check MarkMedical records, medications, and dosages. 


Pet Supplies

Check Mark3-day supply of food, water, and bowls. 
Check MarkPet medications and first aid kit.
Check MarkVaccination records. 
Check MarkCrate or carrier (may be required in shelters or where you spend the night). 
Check Mark Leash and toys.
Check MarkCat litter and box.
Check MarkPhoto, in case the pet gets lost. 


People with Disabilities and Functional Needs

Check MarkWheelchairs, walkers, and canes. 
Check Mark Cold packs for medications
Check Mark Extra medications and dosages. 
Check Mark Copies of Prescriptions and medical alert tags. 
Check Mark Food for special diets. 
Check MarkMedical supplies (oxygen, glucose monitoring strips, syringes, etc.) 
Check MarkHearing aids with extra batteries.
Check MarkCommunication devices.
Check MarkSupplies and documentation for service animals. 


Maintaining Your Kit

Kit Storage Locations

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.
  • Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
  • Store boxed food in a tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
  • Replace expired items as needed.
  • Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
  • Home: 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 kept.
  • Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
  • Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.