It’s not easy to picture going days—or even weeks—without power, internet, or running water. But in a real emergency, that’s exactly what can happen. The best way to protect your family is to have a plan and the right supplies ready before disaster strikes.
Depending on where you live, an “emergency” might look different—heavy snow, flooding, a tornado, or a hurricane. That’s why your plan should be personal. A little preparation today can make a big difference tomorrow.
What to Include in Your Emergency Kit
According to Ready.gov, aim for at least 72 hours’ worth of food, water, and supplies in case you need to evacuate. If you’re likely to shelter at home, the Red Cross recommends planning for two weeks.
You can buy pre-made kits online, but chances are, you already own many of the basics. Grab a large, waterproof container and start building your kit with essentials first—then add extras that make sense for your family.
The Essentials
- Water (1 gallon per person, per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlight + extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- First aid kit and/or trauma kit
- Cash in a waterproof container
- Manual can opener
- Whistle or flares for signaling help
- Dust masks (for poor air quality)
- Tools (wrench, pliers, etc. for shutting off utilities)
- Plastic sheeting & duct tape (for sheltering in place)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with a solar or battery-powered charger
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for sanitation
The “Nice-to-Haves”
Once you’ve got the basics, add items tailored to your family’s needs, such as:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications
- Glasses or contact lens supplies
- Infant formula, diapers, wipes, etc.
- Personal hygiene products and feminine supplies
- Copies of important documents (insurance policies, IDs, bank info) stored in a waterproof container
- Sleeping bags or blankets for each person
- Extra clothing
- Pet food and supplies
- Bleach and medicine dropper (for water purification)
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Fire extinguisher
- Hand warmers, extra blankets, or even a life raft depending on your climate and risk level
- Emergency reference materials (available free at Ready.gov)
Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation
Emergencies can’t always be predicted, but you can take steps to reduce the stress and uncertainty that come with them. Along with having a solid emergency kit, it’s just as important to make sure your home is protected by the right insurance.
Keep in mind: most states don’t allow you to buy or change coverage at the last minute when severe weather is on the way. That’s why it pays to plan ahead.
At Holley Insurance, we’re here to make sure you have the coverage you need—long before a storm is in the forecast. If you’d like to review your current policy or get a free quote, reach out anytime. We’re always happy to help.
