Readyfolk
72-Hour Kit Checklist + Winter Outage Plan
The aim is three days on your own without power, running water or a trip to the store. Check off what you already have, then fill the gaps a little at a time. Most of it is already somewhere in your house.
How much for your household
Based on the common guideline of 1 gallon of water per person per day (for drinking and basic hygiene) and about 2,000 calories per adult per day. Add more for hot weather, nursing mothers, sick family members and pets.
Water
Food
Light and power
Warmth and shelter
First aid and health
Contacts, documents and cash
Hygiene and sanitation
Tools
For your household
Power outage plan (put this on the fridge)
Before
- Charge phones, power banks and rechargeable lights.
- Fill the car's gas tank.
- Freeze containers of water to help keep food cold.
- Know how to open the garage door by hand.
- Have a cooler ready.
During
- Keep the fridge and freezer closed. An unopened fridge keeps food cold for about 4 hours; a full freezer about 48 hours (24 if half full).
- Unplug electronics to protect them from surges when power returns.
- Use flashlights rather than candles.
- Never run a generator, grill or camp stove indoors or in the garage.
- Check on neighbors who live alone.
After
- Throw out refrigerated perishables (meat, milk, eggs, leftovers) that sat above 40°F for 2 hours or more.
- When in doubt, throw it out. Don't taste-test.
- Recharge everything and restock what you used.
Carbon monoxide is the hidden danger in winter outages. Keep generators outside, at least 20 feet from doors and windows, and make sure your CO alarm has working batteries.
Power company outage number
Out-of-town contact
Neighbor to check on
Meeting place if we can't get home
Winter car kit
If you're stranded
- Stay with the car. Call for help and tell them where you are.
- Run the engine about 10 minutes each hour for heat, with a window cracked.
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
- Turn on the dome light while the engine runs so rescuers can see you.
- Move your arms and legs to stay warm, and take turns sleeping.