Be Ready Before the Unexpected Happens
No one expects an emergency, but every family benefits from being prepared. Whether it's a hurricane, winter storm, extended power outage, flood, or another unexpected event, having an emergency supply kit can help you stay safe and reduce stress when normal services are disrupted.
At Compassion by Design, we encourage older adults, caregivers, and families to prepare in advance. Aim to keep enough essential supplies on hand to support everyone in your household for at least three to seven days. It's also a good idea to pack a smaller "grab-and-go" emergency bag that can travel with you in your vehicle or accompany you if you need to leave home quickly.
Essential Items for Your Emergency Supply Kit
💧 Drinking Water
Store at least one gallon of water per person, per day, for hydration and basic hygiene.
🥫 Shelf-Stable Food
Choose nutritious, nonperishable foods that require little or no preparation. Don't forget a manual can opener if needed.
📻 Emergency Weather Radio
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can provide critical updates if internet or cell service is unavailable.
🔦 Reliable Lighting
Keep flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries in easy-to-find locations.
🩹 Medical Supplies
Include a well-stocked first-aid kit along with any personal medical items your family may need.
😷 Air Protection Supplies
Dust masks, plastic sheeting, and duct tape may be helpful during certain environmental emergencies.
🧴 Hygiene Essentials
Pack soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, toothpaste, tissues, toilet paper, and other personal care items.
🔧 Basic Tools
Include a wrench or pliers for shutting off utilities if instructed, along with a multitool for general use.
🛏️ Warmth and Comfort
Store blankets or sleeping bags to help maintain warmth if heating is unavailable.
📢 Emergency Whistle
A whistle can help rescuers locate you if verbal communication isn't possible.
📱 Communication Supplies
Keep phone charging cables, portable battery packs, and power banks fully charged and ready.
🗺️ Printed Maps
Paper maps of your community can be invaluable if GPS or mobile service fails.
👕 Extra Clothing
Pack weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, socks, and rain gear.
👓 Vision and Hearing Needs
Include spare eyeglasses, hearing aids, and extra hearing aid batteries if applicable.
💊 Medications
Maintain several days' worth of prescription medications and commonly used over-the-counter medicines whenever possible.
📁 Important Documents
Protect copies of identification, insurance information, medication lists, emergency contacts, medical records, and legal documents in a waterproof folder or container.
A Compassion by Design Reminder
Preparedness isn't about expecting the worst—it's about protecting the people you love. If you're caring for an older adult or someone with a disability, customize your emergency kit to include mobility aids, medical equipment, dietary necessities, comfort items, pet supplies, and anything else they rely on each day.
Taking time to prepare today can make tomorrow's challenges easier to navigate. A well-planned emergency kit provides more than supplies—it provides confidence, security, and peace of mind when it matters most.