Well prepared

Having an emergency kit means you’ll be better prepared if something goes wrong. More and more people are putting together a kit. You can do the same, so you’ll have the most essential items at home. If necessary, you should be able to manage on your own for at least 72 hours.

Check the image to see what you need. Store everything in a designated, easily accessible place. Use a waterproof bag, such as a backpack. That way, you can grab it quickly if you need to leave in a hurry.

Consider your own situation

Check your emergency kit every six months to make sure it’s still complete. Make sure the items haven’t expired. Also consider your personal needs. Do you need any extra items, such as medications or baby food?

Infographic transcribed as text

The infographic shows 12 symbols. Below each symbol is a brief explanation:

• Bottled water. You'll need about 3 liters per person per day.
• Non-perishable food, such as nuts, canned vegetables, and dried fruit.
• Stay informed using a battery-powered radio and a cell phone with a power bank.
• Flashlight with extra batteries, candles, and matches.
• First aid kit with instructions for use.
• Blankets to keep warm.
• Whistle to let emergency services know where you are.
• Cash.
• Tools, such as a hammer, saw, and pliers.
• Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitary napkins, toothpaste, and toothbrushes.
• Copies of IDs and a list of important phone numbers.
• Spare keys to the house and car.

Every emergency is different. A plan helps you know what to do and how to support your family, friends, and neighbors. You’ll find important tips on this page. If you also answer the questions under “Talking about it with your family, friends, and neighbors,” you’ll be even better prepared.

Tip 1: Follow the instructions

If you receive an NL-Alert on your phone, read it immediately, follow the instructions, and help others. If the air-raid siren sounds on a day other than the first Monday of the month, go indoors right away, close windows and doors, and follow the news on the radio, TV, or the internet.

Tip 2: Listen to Radio West

During a power outage, TV and the internet may not work. A battery-powered radio is very useful. Tune in to Radio West (89.3 FM) for official government updates. This station continues to broadcast even during an emergency.

Tip 3: Stay calm

Whatever happens, stay calm. Stay home as much as possible and avoid traveling by car. Let your neighbors know what’s happening and help them. Call 112 if you are injured or in immediate danger. If you’re safe, see if you can help others.

Do your family, friends, and neighbors know what to do in an emergency? Are they following the news on the radio or TV? Do they also have an emergency kit? Talk to each other. Being well prepared gives you peace of mind.

Discuss these questions together:

1. Who should I call in an emergency?
2. What should I do if I can't reach my family members?
3. Where should I go in an emergency?
4. What arrangements do I have regarding childcare and school?
5. Who picks up the children?
6. How do I turn off the power if necessary?
7. How do I turn off the water if necessary?
8. How do I turn off the gas if necessary?
9. How do I stay warm?
10. How do I boil water without electricity or gas?
11. Where is the nearest defibrillator (AED)?
12. Who needs medical devices or medication?
13. How do I get light without electricity?
14. Who will be our household emergency contact?
15. Which neighbors are at risk of health issues?