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Get a Kit

Be Red Cross Ready! Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed.
Get a Kit
Disasters can occur quickly and without warning. And when an emergency strikes, it can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. If a destructive storm cut off your power, phone and other basic services for several days, or if a chemical spill or other hazard forced you to stay in your home, what would you do?

Your family will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit now — once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies.

Whether you purchase a kit or choose to build your own, make sure that it includes at least three days of supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit, with additional supplies on hand. Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months. Be prepared — build a kit!

Build a Kit

You should keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days.

Build a Disaster Supplies Kit to take with you in an evacuation.

The basics you should stock in your portable kit include: water, food, first aid supplies, a change of clothing and blanket or sleeping bag, emergency tools (like flashlights, radio, batteries), and special items for infants, elderly or disabled. Keep these items in an easy-to carry container-such as a covered trash container, a large backpack, or a duffle bag.

  • Water. Have at least one gallon per person per day.
  • Food. Pack non-perishable, high-protein items,including energy bars, ready-to-eat soup, peanutbutter, etc. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water.
  • Flashlight. Hand crankand alternative energyoptions are available. Include extra batteries, if applicable
  • First aid kit.  Include a first aid reference guide.
  • Radio. Include extra batteries or use a hand-crank radio.  
  • Medications.  Don't forget prescription and non-prescription items.
  • Tools. Gather a wrench to turn off gas if necessary,a manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers,knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting and garbage bagsand ties.
  • Clothing.  Provide a change of clothes for everyone,including sturdy shoes and gloves.
  • Personal items.  Remember copies of importantpapers, including identification cards, insurancepolicies, birth certificates, passports, etc.; eyeglasses,contact lenses and solution, and comfort items liketoys and books, if pertinent.Sanitary supplies.You may need toilet paper, towelettes, feminine supplies, personal hygieneitems, bleach, etc. 
  • Money.  Have cash. (ATMs and credit cards won't work if the power is out.)
  • Contact information.  Carry a current list of familyphone numbers and e-mail addresses, including someone out of the area who may be easier to reach if local phone lines areout of service or overloaded.
  • Pet supplies.  For each pet,include food, water, a collar, a leash/cage/carrying case, litter box or plastic bags, tags,any medications and vaccination information.
  • Map.  Consider marking an evacuation route on it from your local area.

Store your disaster supplies in sturdy yet easy-to carry containers, in a place that is easily accessible.Keep a smaller versions of the kit in your vehicle and at work. If you become stranded or are not able to return home, having some items with you will help you be more comfortable until help arrives.

Buy a Kit

Disaster and First Aid Kits are available for purchase from the Greater Houston Area American Red Cross Store. 2700 Southwest Freeway (77098) in Houston. Proceeds from all sales also help us provide Red Cross services in our communities!

Check out the Greater Houston Area Red Cross Online Store!