Emergency Preparedness Hub

Get your family ready before disaster strikes. Plans, kits, contacts, and step-by-step guides — all free, no signup.

68% of Americans don't have an emergency plan. The time to prepare is before you need to.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be in a basic emergency kit?

A basic emergency kit should include: water (one gallon per person per day for at least 3 days), non-perishable food (3-day supply), battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, whistle, dust masks, plastic sheeting, duct tape, moist towelettes, garbage bags, wrench or pliers, manual can opener, local maps, and cell phone chargers.

How often should I update my emergency plan?

Review and update your emergency plan at least once a year - a good time is at the start of hurricane season (June 1) or during National Preparedness Month (September). Also update it whenever your family has a major change: new baby, new home, new medical needs, kids changing schools, or elderly parents moving in.

What documents should I keep in my emergency kit?

Keep copies of: government-issued IDs, birth certificates, Social Security cards, passports, insurance policies (home, auto, health, life), medical records and prescriptions, bank account information, property deeds or lease agreements, and a list of emergency contacts. Store them in a waterproof container or bag, and keep digital copies in a secure cloud service.

How do I prepare my kids for emergencies without scaring them?

Use age-appropriate language and frame preparedness as something your family does together to stay safe - like wearing seatbelts. Practice drills as games, let kids help pack their own go-bag, teach them to memorize your phone number and address, and answer their questions honestly without graphic details. Books like 'Let’s Get Ready!' by FEMA can help. The goal is confidence, not fear.