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Preparing for an Emergency

Enough food and water for each person in your household to last a week or more. Choose foods that will keep for a long time and do not require refrigeration or cooking; include a non-electric can opener in the event that you would be without electricity.
Medications. Keep at least a week's supply of the medicines you take regularly.
Items for personal comfort hygiene. Store at least a week's supply of soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper, and cleaning products.
Activities to entertain yourself and children. Include items that don't require electricity such books, crafts, board games, and art supplies in the event that you would be without electricity.
Cash. Have cash at home in the event that banks are not open and cash machines do not work.
Pet supplies. Remember food, water, litter, and other necessities your pet(s) may need.
Cell phone or regular phone with a cord. Cordless phones will not work if the power is out.
Large trash bags. Garbage service may be disrupted or postponed for many days.

Agree on a point of contact where all family members can check in if you are separated during an emergency.
Be prepared to get by for at least a week on what you have at home. Stores may not be open or may have limited supplies.
Decide who will take care of children if schools are closed.
Plan to limit the number of trips you take to shop or to run errands. Also, remember public transportation routes and times may be limited.
Think about how you would care for people in your family who have disabilities if support services are not available.