What to Keep in a Home Emergency Kit
Why Every Canadian Home Needs an Emergency Kit
Canada’s extreme weather and vast geography make emergency kits a must. Whether you’re dealing with a winter storm, wildfire evacuation, flood, or extended power outage, having a well-stocked emergency kit can save you time, stress, and even lives.
Most emergencies are short — but intense. Being prepared means you can shelter safely at home or evacuate quickly with the basics you need.
The 5 Core Categories of Emergency Supplies
Use the “5-Category Rule” to cover the basics of emergency survival:
1. Water | 2. Food | 3. Power & Light | 4. Safety & First Aid | 5. Communication
Here’s what to include:
1. Water
4L per person per day (drinking, cooking, hygiene)
Water purification tablets or a filter
Collapsible water container (for emergency filling)
Unscented bleach (for purification)
2. Food
3-day supply of non-perishable food per person
Easy-open cans, granola bars, dried fruit, nut butter
Manual can opener
Baby formula and special dietary items if needed
Pet food (if applicable)
3. Power & Light
Flashlights (one per person)
Extra batteries
Headlamp or lantern
Solar or crank-powered radio (NOAA/weather-band if available)
Power bank for charging phones
Candles & waterproof matches (use cautiously)
4. First Aid & Health
First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, gloves, tweezers)
Prescription medications (7-day supply if possible)
Pain relievers, antihistamines, personal hygiene items
Face masks & hand sanitizer
Emergency blanket (Mylar or wool)
5. Communication & Navigation
Fully charged phone & charger
Paper copy of emergency contacts
Local map
Whistle (to signal for help)
Extra cash (ATMs and card readers may not work)
Canadian-Specific Additions
Emergencies in Canada often mean cold, snow, and power outages. Add these items for Canadian conditions:
Winter & Power Outage GearNotesThermal blankets & sleeping bagsEspecially important in winterHand & foot warmersStock extra if you have children or eldersExtra socks, mitts, tuqueStore in a waterproof bagSmall indoor-safe heater or wood stoveFor rural homesBackup fuel or generator (if safe to store)Follow safety and legal guidelines
Family + Household-Specific Add-Ons
Every household is different — adapt your kit to meet your needs:
Extra diapers, wipes, formula
Comfort items for kids (toy, book, stuffed animal)
Spare eyeglasses or contact lenses
Feminine hygiene products
Pet leash, medication, carrier
Copies of IDs, insurance, and health cards
“Go Binder” with important family documents (in waterproof pouch)
Where Should You Keep Your Emergency Kit?
Store in a grab-and-go location (hall closet, under bed, garage shelf)
Consider splitting: one kit for sheltering in place, one go bag for evacuations
Label it clearly so anyone in the house can find it
Final Tips
Check your kit every 6 months (spring & fall) to rotate food, water, and medications
Use clear bins or backpacks to keep items organized
Teach all household members where the kit is and how to use the items inside
