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Get Ready logo

Be prepared for all disasters and emergencies

Launched in 2006, APHA's Get Ready campaign helps Americans prepare themselves, their families and their communities for all hazards, including infectious disease outbreaks, natural disasters and other emergencies.

Collection of stockpiled emergency items

Stockpiling Checklist

Pack the following items in a clearly labeled, easy-to-carry, sealable container and store them in a place that is easy to access. Check your stockpile once or twice a year. A good rule of thumb is to check your stockpile when you change your clocks for daylight saving time. Replace any supplies that are missing or have expired or have been damaged.

Print a Copy of the Stockpiling Checklist

Emergency Supplies

  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Manual can opener
  • Battery-operated radio (and batteries) or hand-cranked radio
  • Matches in waterproof container
  • Utility knife
  • Paper and pencil
  • Cash, traveler’s checks and coins
  • Paper cups, plates, plastic utensils, paper towels
  •  Garbage bags
  • Pet food
  •  Whistle
  •  Small, canister ABC-type fire extinguisher
  • Needles, thread
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Duct tape, scissors
  •  Extra set of keys and IDs
  • Local maps
  • Small tent, compass and shovel
  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper
    When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, this can be used as a disinfectant. In an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use bleach with added cleaners or bleach that is scented.

Personal items

  • Extra prescription eyeglasses, if applicable
  • Denture and contact lens supplies, if applicable
  • Hearing aid batteries, if applicable
  • Diapers and infant supplies, if applicable
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
  • Moist towelettes, feminine hygiene supplies, latex gloves and other items for personal sanitation.

Important documents: Store in waterproof, portable container

  • Birth, marriage and death certificates
  • Insurance policies and will
  • Contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds
  • Passports, Social Security cards
  • Immunization records
  • Bank account numbers, credit card account numbers and company contact information
  • Prescription information
  • Inventory of valuable household goods
  • Veterinary records for pets, as well as pet photos