Make an emergency kit

During an emergency, you could lose important services, such as electricity, water, phones, and transit. You might even need to leave your home.

It is important that you make emergency kits – filled with food, water, clothing, medicine, money, and other emergency supplies – for you, your family, and your pets.

These kits will help you better survive for up to three days while you wait for services to be turned back on, or until it is safe to go back home.

Make or buy the emergency kits that apply to your situation using the lists below.

Check your kits twice per year to replace any expired food, batteries, and medicine. A good reminder to check is when changing your clocks for daylight savings in the spring and fall.

Evacuation kit (grab-and-go kit)

Every person in your family should have their own customized evacuation kit at home and at work. Keep the kits by the front door, where they will be easy to find if you need to evacuate quickly.

Backpack or tote bag (to carry the kit items)
Blanket or sleeping bag
Bottled water
Candles and matches or a lighter
Clothing and shoes (one change, comfortable and all-season)
First aid kit
Flashlight and batteries
Food that requires no cooking
Glasses or contacts (case and solution)
Identification, insurance papers and other important documents
Medication
- NOTE: Before storing any medications, check with your family doctor or pharmacist.
Money (including coins)
Phone cards
Playing cards and games
Radio and batteries, or crank radio (to listen to news and public advisories)
Toilet paper and personal hygiene supplies
Whistle

Special items for babies and toddlers

Bottled milk
Diapers
Formula
Toys, crayons, and paper

Home kit

During an emergency, you may be able to stay in your home, but might not have heat or electricity. A home kit will help you cope without services for 72 hours. Replace expired food regularly.

Water
- At least four litres per person, per day (half for drinking)
Food
- Canned foods
- Crackers and biscuits
- Honey, peanut butter, syrup, and jam
- Salt and pepper
- Sugar
- Coffee and tea
Food preparation equipment
- Knives, forks, and spoons
- Disposable cups and plates
- Manual can opener and bottle opener