A ready home starts with the basics.
No bunkers. No fear. Just a clear, practical guide to the supplies that help an ordinary household handle an emergency.
Ten practical first steps
You do not need to buy everything today. Begin with what protects life and covers the most common disruptions.
Smoke & carbon monoxide alarms
Working alarms on every level and near sleeping areas.
What to look forNonperishable food
Several days of familiar foods that need little water or cooking.
What to look forBackup phone power
A charged power bank and the cables your household uses.
What to look forEmergency radio
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio that receives NOAA weather alerts.
What to look forEssential medications
A practical reserve of prescriptions and essential health supplies.
What to look forFamily communication plan
A written plan for contacts, meeting places, and evacuation.
What to look forEverything has a place
The full list is grouped by ordinary household needs, so you can work through one manageable area at a time.
The rule of threes
This familiar rule is not a countdown, and real conditions vary. It simply reminds us to deal with immediate danger before comfort.
How we use this idea