The Preparedness Desk.

Keep the basics accessible, then adjust quantities and equipment for your household and local hazards.

• Store drinking water for everyone.FEMA’s baseline is one gallon per person per day for at least three days; plan more where needed.
• Keep a supply of nonperishable food and a manual can opener.
• Put flashlights and spare batteries where you can find them.
• Check your first aid kit and replace expired items.
• Plan for prescription medicines and personal medical needs.Ask your pharmacy or clinician how to maintain an appropriate supply.
• Keep important contacts and copies of key documents accessible.

A small car kit and a departure plan help when you are away from home.

• Carry water and shelf-stable snacks.
• Keep a flashlight and charging cable or power bank.
• Pack season-appropriate layers and sturdy footwear.
• Keep a basic first aid kit in the vehicle.
• Choose an alternate route and a destination outside your immediate area.
• Review your vehicle kit when seasons change.

A plan works best when everyone knows it before phones or power fail.

• Choose an out-of-area contact and share the number.
• Agree on a nearby and an out-of-area meeting place.
• Keep a printed contact list in your wallet or kit.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts and know where to find official updates.
• Charge backup power and check your weather radio if you use one.
• Walk through the plan with your household.

Your evacuation plan should include your animals, their supplies, and a place they can go.

• Pack food, water, bowls, and medications for each animal.
• Keep a carrier, leash, harness, and identification ready.
• Save vaccination and medical records in your go kit.
• Keep a current photo of each animal and your contact details.
• Identify pet-friendly places to stay and a backup caregiver.Check policies in advance; shelters and hotels vary.
• For a working dog, keep essential equipment and handler contacts with the kit.