How to Set Up and Maintain a Home Emergency Kit
Your home is more than just an investment; it's a sanctuary for your family. Protecting that sanctuary and ensuring your family’s safety is vital. Every day, we live with the possibility of emergencies that may threaten our sense of security.
Preparing for those emergencies is part of responsible homeownership. This blog will help guide you through creating emergency kits to keep your family and pets safe, no matter what situations may arise.
Step 1: Start with the Basics
A solid home emergency kit begins with the essentials. Your emergency supplies should support your household for at least 72 hours. Start by including:
- One gallon of water per person per day
- Non-perishable food (like canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruit)
- Manual can opener
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Cell phone charger or power bank
- Blankets or emergency thermal blankets
- Multi-tool or basic tool kit
Store these items in a durable, waterproof container in an accessible area, ideally a closet or garage shelf. Don’t forget food and water for pets, as well.
Step 2: First Aid Essentials
Medical emergencies can happen at any time, so a well-stocked first aid kit is crucial. You can buy preassembled kits, but make sure they include:
- Bandages and gauze in various sizes
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Tweezers, scissors, and gloves
- Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- Thermometer
- Any essential prescription medications
Check expiration dates regularly, and store medications in airtight containers where temperature and humidity are controlled.
Step 3: Critical Documents and Cash
In the event of evacuation or widespread power outages, you may need access to identification and funds. Keep these items together in a fireproof, waterproof folder:
- Copies of IDs, insurance policies, home deeds, and medical records
- Emergency contact numbers written down
- Local maps
- Extra cash in small denominations
Step 4: Warmth, Comfort & Medical Needs
Emergencies can require a quick evacuation. Having a pre-packed "go-bag" for all family members is vital. These bags should include:
- Warmth: Blankets or sleeping bags
- Medical Supplies: Any necessary prescription medications, copies of medical records, and a medication list
- Clothing: A change of clothes, socks, shoes, and a toothbrush for each family member
- For Children: A favorite toy, book, or stuffed animal to provide emotional support. Kid-friendly snacks like granola bars or crackers. Emergency cards with contact information and a reunification plan.
- For Seniors or People with Disabilities: Extra prescriptions, mobility aids, or hearing devices. If someone uses a powered wheelchair, have a manual one as a backup. Write down any specific care needs for caregivers or first responders.
- For Pets: Pack food, water, leashes, and carriers for easy transport. Include vaccination information and your vet’s contact details. Familiar toys or bedding to reduce stress.
Step 5: Consider Your Home’s Specific Needs
Tailor your kit to your location and lifestyle. If you live in an area prone to natural disasters (hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, blackouts, wildfires), you know what kind of havoc happens after an event.
Make sure you have items like N95 masks, emergency whistles, fire extinguishers, and plastic sheeting with duct tape for temporary shelter. If your home includes elderly family members, babies, or pets, adjust accordingly. (Diapers, formula, medications.)
Step 6: Develop a Communication Plan
Knowing how you’ll communicate with loved ones during an emergency is just as important as having supplies.
- Designate a non-local contact: If local phone lines are down, it might be easier to reach someone further away.
- Establish a meeting point: Choose a safe, recognizable location outside your home and another outside your neighborhood in case of evacuation.
- Utilize technology: Text messages often go through when calls can't. Consider a family communication app or pre-programmed emergency numbers in everyone's phones.
- Practice your plan: Regularly review the plan with all family members, including children, so everyone knows what to do.
Step 7: Maintain and Update Regularly
An emergency kit isn’t “set it and forget it”. Make a habit of checking your kit every six months. Replace expired food and medicine, test batteries and flashlights, and rotate seasonal gear like cold-weather clothes or sunblock. As your family grows or changes, update your kit to reflect new needs.
Peace of Mind is Priceless
Peace of mind comes from preparation. Having a comprehensive home emergency kit ensures you’re ready to face the unexpected with confidence. By investing a little time now, you’re protecting what matters most: your home, your family, and your future.
At Ernest Homes, we know the value of peace of mind. That’s why we build homes with unmatched quality, homes designed to last for generations. Connect with us to learn more about our homes in Savannah and our unique approach to homebuilding.
