When disaster strikes, having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference. That’s where a household disaster kit comes in. Think of it as your family’s safety net, packed with food, water, and essentials to keep everyone safe and comfortable at home if normal services are disrupted.
Because it’s meant to support your whole household, this kit is usually larger and stays at home. In addition, each family member should also have a smaller personal “go kit” that’s portable and easy to grab in case you need to leave quickly.
What to Include in a Household Kit
- Enough food and water for at least 3 days (though 7–10 days is strongly recommended).
- Plan for 1 gallon of water per person, per day.
- Other emergency supplies like flashlights, first aid, batteries, and medications.
You don’t need to buy an expensive pre-made kit. Many families simply use a large plastic bin or utility bag and add the basics. Just make sure to store your kit indoors and rotate food and water regularly so everything stays fresh. For more details, see our pages on Emergency Food Supplies and Preserving and Storing Water.
Don’t wait – start building your kit today! Download and print the Ready Burbank Emergency Supplies Guide & Checklist PDF to get step-by-step instructions for assembling your home emergency kit.
