Emergency Essentials for Home and Business Needs

When it comes to staying safe during unexpected events, preparation is your best friend. 

Whether you’re facing a power outage, natural disaster, or another unexpected disruption, an emergency essentials kit gives you confidence and security when it matters most.

Based on recommended best practices from trusted sources like FEMA and Ready.gov, your kit should include these key items:

Emergency Essentials Kit Checklist

Food and Water

• At least 1 gallon of water per person per day (plan for 3–7 days) 
• Non-perishable food: ready-to-eat cans, energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, and more 

Communication & Light

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed 
• Flashlight and extra batteries (consider glow sticks too) 

First Aid & Personal Health

• Fully stocked first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and essential medications 
• Prescription meds, over-the-counter pain relievers, and sanitary supplies

Sanitation & Protection

• Face masks, hand sanitizer, plastic bags, and sanitation items 
• Duct tape and plastic sheeting for emergency sheltering or sealing 

Tools & Supplies

• Manual can opener, multi-tool or utility knife, and whistle 
• Local maps, extra car/home keys, and backup phone portable chargers 

Extras for Comfort and Safety

• Cash in small bills in a waterproof container 
• Make physical or digital copies of important documents (IDs, insurance, medical records, legal documents, propriety records, etc.) 
• Blankets, spare clothes, and games or books to reduce stress during long waits 
• Emergency contact list: Include phone numbers for family, local authorities, utility companies, and your local Compleat office for reliable support! 
• Pet supplies and infant essentials if needed 

Why It Matters

An emergency kit isn’t about living in fear, it’s about being ready. Stocking these essentials means you can stay safe, informed, and comfortable while waiting for help to arrive or restoring normalcy. Update your kit every few months to rotate food, check medications, and make sure everything still works.

Keep your main kit near a hallway closet or exit so it’s easy to grab in an emergency. Store bulk items like extra water and food in the basement, garage, or pantry for longer-term use. Keep important papers in a fireproof box, but add copies to your kit so you can take them with you if you need to leave quickly.

Preparedness starts at home, but it doesn’t stop there. If you’d like support creating a disaster response plan for your business, call us at 800-699-1176.