Store one gallon of water per person per day for several days, non-perishable food, a radio, flashlight, first aid kit and chargers, and write a plan that your household can find.
Basic supplies
Ready.gov lists one gallon of water per person per day for several days; a several-day supply of non-perishable food; a flashlight and extra batteries; a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, ideally with NOAA Weather Radio; a first aid kit; a cell phone with chargers and a backup battery; a whistle; a dust mask; plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape; moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties; a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities; a manual can opener; and local maps.
Add for your household
Add prescription medications and the non-prescription options your household uses; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof container; cash or traveler's checks; a sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person; and a complete change of weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
Family emergency plan
The NWS advises writing or reviewing a family emergency plan: agree with family or close contacts on how you will reach each other, where you will go and what you will do. Keep a copy in your supplies kit or another accessible place.
Check equipment
Check emergency equipment such as flashlights, generators and storm shutters before you need them. Buy supplies before the season, not during the pre-storm rush.
Check your own location
See current official alerts and the impact for your ZIP code.
Sources
Reviewed by the Storm Incoming editorial team on October 26, 2026. Follow local emergency officials if their instructions differ.