GetKit72 is a reference guide, not an official source and not an emergency service. We summarize public guidance from agencies like FEMA, Ready.gov, CDC and NOAA; always follow your local officials. In an emergency call 911.

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What goes in a first aid kit

Build a kit that handles cuts, burns, sprains, and minor wounds for your whole household.

  • Adhesive bandages of varied sizes
  • Sterile gauze + medical tape
  • Antibiotic ointment + antiseptic wipes
  • Nitrile gloves (non-latex)
  • Pain relievers + antihistamine
  • Tweezers, scissors, thermometer

Source: American Red Cross — Anatomy of a first aid kit

Recommended gear
First Aid Only 299-piece Kit
Bandages, gauze, and basic first-aid supplies.

Affiliate disclosure: GetKit72 earns commissions on qualifying purchases through these links. Recommendations are based on Red Cross / FEMA / Ready.gov guidance, not commission rates.

Building a 3-day emergency kit

72 hours is a widely used minimum; Ready.gov currently says several days.

  • 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days
  • Non-perishable food for 3 days
  • Battery- or hand-crank radio (NOAA tone)
  • Flashlight + extra batteries
  • Whistle, dust mask, plastic sheeting
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags

Source: Ready.gov — Build a kit

Recommended gear
Tactical 40L Go-Bag
MOLLE webbing, water-resistant.

Affiliate disclosure: GetKit72 earns commissions on qualifying purchases through these links. Recommendations are based on Red Cross / FEMA / Ready.gov guidance, not commission rates.

Water storage basics

Most people underestimate how much water they need in an outage.

  • 1 gallon/person/day, minimum 3 days, ideally 14
  • Replace store-bought every 12 months
  • Use food-grade containers only
  • Keep a filter or purification tabs as backup
  • Don't forget pets (1 gal/day each)

Source: Ready.gov — Water

Recommended gear
5-Gallon Water Container (set of 2)
Stackable, BPA-free, with spigot.

Affiliate disclosure: GetKit72 earns commissions on qualifying purchases through these links. Recommendations are based on Red Cross / FEMA / Ready.gov guidance, not commission rates.

Emergency power: power banks vs power stations

When the grid is down, what powers your phone, fridge, and CPAP matters.

  • Power bank (10–20k mAh): keeps a phone alive for days
  • Check manufacturer specifications against your devices; medical equipment needs a clinician-approved backup plan
  • Solar panel add-ons extend runtime
  • Never run gas generators indoors
  • Keep devices charged before storms

Source: FEMA — Power outages

Recommended gear
Jackery Explorer 300 Power Station
Portable battery power. Check device requirements and manufacturer specifications.

Affiliate disclosure: GetKit72 earns commissions on qualifying purchases through these links. Recommendations are based on Red Cross / FEMA / Ready.gov guidance, not commission rates.

Making a family emergency plan

A 20-minute conversation today prevents hours of panic later.

  • Pick two meeting spots (one near, one out-of-neighborhood)
  • Designate an out-of-state contact
  • Write down phone numbers (don't rely on memory)
  • Practice with kids — make it normal
  • Plan for school, work, and pets

Source: Ready.gov — Make a plan

Recommended gear
Midland NOAA Weather Radio
Hand crank, solar, USB charge-out.

Affiliate disclosure: GetKit72 earns commissions on qualifying purchases through these links. Recommendations are based on Red Cross / FEMA / Ready.gov guidance, not commission rates.

Hurricane prep checklist

When a named storm enters your forecast cone, work the list.

  • Fill bathtubs and jugs with water
  • Charge every device and power bank
  • Fill gas tanks early
  • Photo all rooms for insurance
  • Bring in/secure outdoor furniture
  • Know your evacuation zone

Source: National Hurricane Center — Preparedness

Recommended gear
Midland NOAA Weather Radio
Hand crank, solar, USB charge-out.

Affiliate disclosure: GetKit72 earns commissions on qualifying purchases through these links. Recommendations are based on Red Cross / FEMA / Ready.gov guidance, not commission rates.

Pick my 72-hour kit