Emergency kit checklist

Packing a small emergency kit and keeping it in a safe place at home will stand you in good stead in a wide range of emergency situations. Your kit should be kept in a waterproof bag and it should include:

  • A battery radio with spare batteries or a wind up radio (so you can be communicated with if the electricity supply is affected)
  • A battery torch with spare batteries or a wind-up torch
  • A first aid kit
  • A note of local radio station frequencies and important phone numbers
  • Copies of important documents like birth certificates, insurance policies and your household emergency plan
  • Bottled water and ready-to-eat food that won't go off, with a can opener if required
  • Spare keys to your home and vehicle
  • Spare glasses or contact lenses
  • Toiletries and details of important medicines
  • Pencil and paper, penknife, whistle
  • Pet supplies

If you have to leave your home, and there's time to gather them safely, you should also think about taking:

  • Essential medicines
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Cash and credit cards
  • Spare clothes and blankets
  • Games, books, a child's special toy
  • Pets