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In a time of crisis, you may need to take care of yourself and your family for a few days under less-than-optimal conditions.

By creating your own 72-hour emergency kit, you’ll have everything necessary to help you and your family until emergency responders can reach you.

Split Your Kits

If you need to evacuate your home, you must be able to carry your 72-hour kit full of supplies — so consider splitting things up to make it easier. Have one kit for sheltering in-place (staying at home), and one in case you need to evacuate.

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How long can you go without outside assistance?

When a critical event happens, it may take emergency responders some time to reach you. Be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours.

What kinds of risks do we face in the County?

Knowing the risks around your home, community and region can help you better prepare for a disaster. Locally, we face a host of hazards like blizzards, floods and wildfires. In addition to natural disasters, there are other types of hazards, such as power outages and industrial or transportation accidents.

In Lac Ste. Anne County, a tornado can strike quickly with significant damage. Wildfires can threaten communities and restrict movement. Heavy rains can cause significant overland flooding.

Won’t the government take care of me?

While municipalities respond to local emergencies, you should prepare to be on your own for the first 72 hours. It can take some time for emergency workers to reach you as they prioritize those in need of lifesaving assistance.

Even if you are't injured, you need to make sure you have the water, food and supplies you need to survive.

72-Hour Emergency Kits: Ready-to-Stay

All families should have two emergency kits: a ready-to-stay kit and a ready-to-go kit. These two kits will help you survive 72 hours, whether you stay in your home or need to evacuate.

Your ready-to-stay kit should include the items you will need to stay safe at home for a few days. You can keep these things at home in a plastic tub or a special cabinet.

In an emergency, you’ll need some basic supplies. You may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. You may have some items already, like food, water and a flashlight. The key is to make sure they are organized and easy to find.

Basic Ready-to-Stay Items

  • Water (at least two litres of drinking water per person per day) — include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order
  • Food that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods — replace food and water once per year; don’t forget the can opener
  • Crank or battery-powered flashlight and radio — throw in some extra batteries
  • Extra sets of keys to your car and house
  • Cash in smaller bills, such as $10 bills
  • A copy of your emergency contact information
  • First aid kit

Recommended Additional Items

  • Two additional litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning
  • Candles and matches or a lighter — place candles in sturdy containers and do not burn unattended
  • Change of clothing and footwear for each household member
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each household member
  • Toiletries, including toiler paper and hand sanitizer
  • Utensils
  • Basic tools — hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, work gloves, dust mask, pocket knife
  • Household chlorine bleach or water purifying tablets
  • Small fuel-operated stove and fuel
  • A whistle in case you need to attract attention
  • Duct tape to seal windows, doors, air events, etc.
  • Garbage bags

72-Hour Emergency Kits: Ready-to-Go

Keep ready-to-go kit items in a backpack, duffle bag or suitcase, in an easy-to-reach, accessible place, such as your front-hall closet. Make sure your kit is easy to carry and everyone in the household knows where it is. Take it with you if you have to leave your home so you can be safe.

Basic Ready-to-Go Items

  • 2 litres of water per person — include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order
  • Food that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods — replace food and water once per year; don’t forget the can opener
  • Plastic or paper plates, cups, and utensils
  • Crank or battery-powered flashlight and radio — throw in some extra batteries
  • A change of clothes
  • A card with emergency contact info — including someone who lives out of town
  • Pet food and supplies for at least three days
  • Small first aid kit — include medicine you usually take
  • Personal identification card
  • Personal hygiene items, soap and hand sanitizer
  • Cash in smaller currencies

    Recommended Additional Items

  • Two additional litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning
  • Candles and matches or a lighter — place candles in sturdy containers and do not burn unattended
  • Change of clothing and footwear for each household member
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each household member
  • Toiletries, including toiler paper and hand sanitizer
  • Utensils and basic tools — hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, work gloves, dust mask, pocket knife
  • Household chlorine bleach or water purifying tablets
  • Duct tape to seal windows, doors, air events, etc.
  • A whistle in case you need to attract attention
  • Small fuel-operated stove and fuel
  • Garbage bags

Ask Yourself

Would you be able to find your flashlight in the dark?

Emergency Kits for Vehicles

Create a vehicle emergency kit to help keep you and your family comfortable and safe during times of emergency. Being prepared for emergencies does not happen overnight. By taking small steps, you and your family can be prepared without overwhelming your schedule or your budget.

Vehicle Emergency Kit Must-Haves

  • Blanket
  • Candle in a deep can & matches
  • Extra clothing and shoes
  • First aid kit with seatbelt cutter
  • Flashlight

Recommended Additional Items

  • Antifreeze
  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Sand, salt or non-clumping cat litter
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Road maps
  • List of contact numbers
  • Radio (crank or battery-powered)
  • Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
  • Warning light or road flares
  • Water
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