What should every Canadian have in an emergency preparedness kit?

Every Canadian household should have an emergency kit that can support everyone for at least 72 hours without power or services. Requirements can vary by region, so check official preparedness guidance from Public Safety Canada for the full recommended list.

Emergency preparedness kit containing essential supplies like bandages, a tourniquet, and medical dressings, ready for quick access in crisis situations.

What people are asking regarding emergency preparedness kit

This affects households across Canada preparing for winter storms, power outages, floods, or other emergencies. Searches usually increase after major outages or severe weather when people realize they may not be ready if services are disrupted again.

What we can confirm

The federal government recommends a basic emergency preparedness kit that includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a phone charger or power bank, first aid supplies, important documents, and cash. Guidance from Public Safety Canada states households should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Additional items may be needed for children, seniors, pets, or medical conditions, so readers should review the official preparedness checklist for their situation.

What to do next

Step 1: Go to the Public Safety Canada emergency preparedness page

Step 2: Look for the 72-hour emergency kit checklist

Step 3: Have ready a container or backpack to store supplies and copies of key documents

Step 4: Assemble your kit and store it in an easy-to-access place, then review it yearly

Common issues

People buy supplies but store them scattered, keep everything in one portable kit.

Food expires unnoticed, check and rotate items once or twice a year.

Phone dies during outage, include a charged power bank or battery radio.

FAQs

How much water should I store?

At least two litres per person per day for 72 hours.

Do I need a generator?

Not required, but a battery radio and power bank are strongly recommended.

Should I keep cash in the kit?

Yes, small bills help if debit machines are down.

Where should I store the kit?

In a cool, dry place that is easy to grab quickly.

Do apartments need emergency kits too?

Sources

Public Safety Canada emergency preparedness guidance

Canadian Red Cross preparedness recommendations

Last checked: 2026-02-17