# What are the three most important things to include in a family emergency kit for earthquakes and floods? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-three-most-important-things-to-include-in-a-family-emergency-kit-for-earthquakes-and-floods Language: en Category: prevention Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.476Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.476Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-are-the-three-most-important-things-to-include-in-a-family-emergency-kit-for-earthquakes-and-floods An emergency kit is a vital part of any disaster preparedness plan, whether for earthquakes, floods, or other unexpected events. Its goal is to provide essential supplies your family might need to stay safe and comfortable until you can return to normal or receive help. Among many items that can be included, three things stand out as top priorities to ensure safety and survival in the initial hours and days after a disaster. ## Drinking Water Supplies Water is the most critical element for survival. In emergencies, clean water supplies may be interrupted or contaminated, making access to potable water a major challenge. Therefore, your emergency kit should include enough bottled water for each family member, taking into account basic drinking and hygiene needs. It is recommended to store at least one gallon (about 3.8 liters) of water per person per day, for at least three days [\[1\]](). Additionally, water purification tablets or portable water filters can be included as a backup option to ensure safe water availability if bottled supplies run out or if there is a need to treat unreliable water sources. ## Basic First Aid Kit Minor or moderate injuries are common during disasters, and access to immediate medical help may not be available. Therefore, having a comprehensive first aid kit is crucial. This kit should contain sterile bandages of various sizes, gauze, medical adhesive tape, disinfectants such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, over-the-counter pain relievers, small scissors, and tweezers. It is also important to include any prescription medications necessary for family members, such as diabetes or asthma medications, in quantities sufficient for at least several days [\[1\]](). It is advisable to regularly review the contents of the first aid kit and replace any expired items. ## Communication and Lighting Tools In the aftermath of a disaster like an earthquake or flood, electricity and communication networks are often cut off, making it difficult to communicate with others and obtain information. Therefore, an emergency kit should include a battery-operated flashlight with extra batteries, or a solar-powered or hand-crank flashlight, to provide lighting in the dark. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio (weather radio) is also essential for listening to emergency updates and instructions from local authorities [\[1\]](). Additionally, a portable charger (power bank) can be included for mobile phones to ensure devices can be charged if a temporary connection network becomes available. It is also useful to keep a hard copy of important contact numbers, such as emergency numbers, family members, and friends, in case phones are inaccessible or run out of battery. ## Additional Emergency Kit Tips In addition to the aforementioned essential items, the emergency kit can be enhanced with other items that increase preparedness levels. For example, non-perishable and easy-to-prepare foods, such as canned goods or energy bars, should be included in quantities sufficient for at least three days [\[1\]](). It is also recommended to place a copy of important documents, such as identification cards and insurance papers, in a waterproof bag. Do not forget to include basic personal hygiene supplies such as soap, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes. For more information on how to create a comprehensive family disaster preparedness plan, you can visit [Disaster Preparedness: A Family Plan for Earthquakes and Floods in Jordan (Arabic)](). ## Pet Preparedness If you have pets, it is essential to include them in your emergency plan. Your pet's emergency kit should contain enough food and water for them for at least three days, in addition to their bowls, prescription medications, and a copy of their medical records [\[2\]](). You should also have a collar with an updated identification tag, a leash, and a pet carrier to ensure their safety and ease of transport. It is also important to pre-identify pet-friendly accommodations in case evacuation is needed, as many shelters do not allow pets other than service animals [\[2\]](). ## Medical references - [Disaster Preparation and Recovery]() - [Be Prepared: Pet Safety in Emergencies]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-three-most-important-things-to-include-in-a-family-emergency-kit-for-earthquakes-and-floods#answer