3-Day Essentials Kit Checklist
The 3-Day Essentials Kit is designed to sustain you during the critical first 72 hours of an emergency, the window FEMA identifies as essential for self-sufficiency before professional aid arrives. Whether facing sudden power outages, severe storms, or unexpected supply chain disruptions, this collection ensures you have the core resources needed to stay safe and comfortable while you navigate the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
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☐ Step 1:
Water
Water IS ESSENTIAL
Water is the foundation of any emergency kit. Plan for at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and basic sanitation during short disruptions.
Checklist
  • 1 gallon of potable water per person per day (minimum 3 gallons per person total)
  • Durable, BPA-free water storage containers or commercially sealed bottles
  • Water purification tablets (e.g., chlorine dioxide or iodine-based)
  • Unscented household chlorine bleach (use only according to label or official emergency water-disinfection guidance)
  • Collapsible water containers for easy transport and storage

Maintenance Tip: Remember to rotate your stored water supply every six months to ensure freshness, and regularly check all containers for any signs of leakage or damage.

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☐ Step 2:
Food
food Should be Simple
Choose shelf-stable, easy-to-prepare foods that can sustain your household during short disruptions. Aim for about 2,000 calories per person per day, adjusted for age, activity level, and household needs.
Checklist
  • Canned staples:Beans, tuna, chicken, soups, or similar shelf-stable basics your household uses
  • Easy snacks: Granola bars, trail mix, peanut butter, crackers, or dried fruit
  • Ready-to-eat meals: Shelf-stable meals, canned meals, or ration bars
  • Manual can opener: Needed if your food plan includes canned items
  • Household-specific items: Dietary needs, allergies, infant items, or pet food

Pro Tip: Focus on foods your household already uses. Choose items that need little water, little cooking, and minimal cleanup.
Rotate stored food every 6 to 12 months using a first-in, first-out approach to keep items fresh and usable.

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☐ Step 3:
Core Supplies, First Aid & Power
Core Safety Items
Flashlights
  • LED flashlight (1 per person)
  • Extra batteries (matching flashlight type)
  • Hand-crank or solar-powered flashlight (backup)
First Aid
  • Pre-assembled first aid kit (bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain relievers, tweezers)
  • Hand sanitizer / sanitation wipes
Medications
  • 3-day supply of prescription medications
  • Copies of prescriptions and doctor contact info
Power
  • Fully charged portable power bank (10,000 mAh minimum)
  • Charging cables for all household devices
Communications
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

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Before You Finish
This checklist is a starting point, not a one-size-fits-all plan. Adjust it for your household size, medical needs, pets, diet, climate, and local risks.
Use this 3-day kit as your foundation, then review and update it regularly. The most effective emergency kit is one your household can access, use, and maintain with confidence.

Check local guidance: Use trusted sources like Ready.gov, your local emergency management office, and your healthcare provider for the most relevant guidance for your area and household.
Small steps, reviewed regularly, build lasting readiness.

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