Why an Emergency Kit Matters
Emergencies can happen without warning. A storm, flood, or power outage could leave you and your family on your own for several days.
Being prepared means having enough food, water, and basic supplies to stay safe and comfortable until help arrives.
Your emergency kit should contain everything your household might need in the event of a disaster.
What to Include in a Basic Disaster Kit
Start by collecting essential items and storing them in airtight plastic bags. Keep them together in an easy-to-carry container, such as a duffel bag or plastic bin.
Every home kit should include:
Water: One gallon per person per day, for drinking and sanitation (for at least 3 days).
Food: Non-perishable items such as canned foods, energy bars, or dry goods.
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: Stay updated with local alerts from NDMA or the Maldives Meteorological Service.
Flashlight and extra batteries.
First aid kit.
Whistle to signal for help.
Dust mask to filter contaminated air.
Plastic sheeting, duct tape, and scissors to shelter in place if needed.
Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
Manual can opener for food.
Local maps.
Mobile phone with chargers and a backup power bank.
These items form the foundation of your household’s emergency preparedness.
Additional Items for Your Family’s Needs
Every household is different. Consider what your family might need in addition to the basic kit.
You may include:
Personal hygiene supplies: Soap, sanitizer, disinfecting wipes.
Prescription medications and essential over-the-counter medicine.
Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and solution.
Infant needs: Formula, bottles, diapers, and wipes.
Pet food and extra water for pets.
Cash or traveler’s checks (ATMs may not work during emergencies).
Important family documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and bank records in a waterproof folder or USB drive.
Sleeping bag or blanket for each family member.
Complete change of clothing suitable for the local climate.
Fire extinguisher.
Waterproof matches or lighter.
Feminine hygiene items.
Simple cookware and utensils: Paper plates, cups, and cutlery.
Paper, pencil, books, or games to keep children occupied and calm.
Maintaining Your Kit
An emergency kit only works if it’s ready when you need it. Take time to check and update it regularly.
Store canned food in a cool, dry place.
Keep boxed food in sealed containers.
Replace expired food, batteries, and medicine as needed.
Review your kit once a year and update it for new family members or changing needs (e.g., new baby, medical changes).
Tip: Choose a memorable date — like World Tsunami Awareness Day or the start of the monsoon season — to review your supplies each year.
Where to Store Your Kit
Emergencies can happen anywhere — at home, at work, or on the road.
Keep kits in the following locations to ensure you’re always prepared:
Home: Store in a safe, easily accessible place. Make sure all family members know where it is.
Work: Keep a small “grab-and-go” kit with food, water, medication, and comfortable shoes in case you need to shelter at work for 24 hours.
Car or Boat: Store emergency supplies in your vehicle or vessel in case you become stranded or face delays.
Simple Tips to Get Started
Start small — even a few key items are better than none.
Involve your family — let children help pick snacks or pack flashlights.
Label containers and store heavier items at the bottom.
Review and restock your kit every few months.
Preparedness Starts at Home
An emergency kit is a simple but powerful step toward safety.
By preparing today, you protect yourself, your family, and your community when disasters strike.