Your 72-hour checklist

Everything your household needs to stay safe and sustained.

Start small. Even one item today is a gift to your future self and the people who count on you.

Hydration & Nutrition

The rule of thumb is one gallon per person per day. Don’t forget your pets.

  • Water: 3 gallons per person (2 for drinking, 1 for light hygiene)

  • Water purification: Unscented bleach (8 drops per gallon) or purification tablets

  • Non-perishable food: High-calorie, low-sodium to reduce thirst

    • Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables

    • Protein bars, peanut butter, and dried fruit

    • A manual can opener (don’t let a tin lid be your nemesis)

  • Baby and pet needs: Formula or specific pet kibble

Safety & Communication

When the grid goes down, information and light are your best friends.

  • Light sources: LED flashlights and headlamps (save your phone battery)

  • Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio

  • Extra batteries: Stored in a cool, dry place

  • Power bank: A fully charged portable charger for your devices

  • Whistle: To signal for help if you are trapped or separated

Health & Hygiene

A small cut or a lack of sanitation can become a major problem quickly in a crisis.

  • First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic, gauze, and tweezers

  • Medications: At least a 7-day supply of prescription meds and some OTC basics (painkillers, antacids)

  • Sanitation:

    • Moist towelettes and garbage bags with plastic ties

    • Toilet paper and feminine hygiene products

    • Hand sanitizer

Tools & Personal Items

The small things that make a hard day workable.

  • Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife