How to Get a Free Emergency Kit (and Build Your Own)
Following recent government advice, every household should have a 72-hour emergency kit ready. Free kits are not commonly distributed, but official resources and free publications can guide you in assembling your own comprehensive emergency kit for any crisis.
Step 1: Obtain Free Emergency Preparedness Resources
- Visit Ready.gov for detailed guides, checklists, and downloadable pamphlets on disaster preparedness.
- Order Free Publications:
- Call FEMA at (800) 480-2520 to request the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK), publication number P-1075.
- Download the EFFAK PDF from FEMA or through Operation Hope.
- UK Residents:
- Use UK Government's “Prepare” resources and Ready Scotland for free checklists and household planning tools.
Step 2: Build Your Own Emergency Kit (Using Free Resources)
Using the official guides, assemble a 72-hour kit with essential survival items:
| Essential Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 litres per person per day (minimum for 3 days) |
| Non-perishable food | Canned food, energy bars, snacks |
| First aid kit | For treating injuries and health needs |
| Flashlight/torch | For light during blackouts or emergencies |
| Battery-powered/hand-crank radio | To receive news and emergency alerts |
| Medications | Personal and family-specific medications |
| Personal hygiene | Wet wipes, hand gel, masks, basic toiletries |
| Important documents | Copies of IDs, insurance, emergency contacts |
| Cash | Small notes and coins in case ATMs are down |
| Phone charger/power bank | Keep devices powered for communication |
Step 3: Prepare a Grab-and-Go Bag
Alongside your main emergency kit, prepare a grab-and-go bag for fast evacuation:
- Water and snacks
- Phone charger and spare battery
- Small radio and flashlight
- First aid kit and essential documents
- Personal hygiene items and face masks
Tip: Use free community events or local councils—sometimes they provide starter emergency items (torches, radios, or first aid kits) at preparedness fairs.
Additional Free Resources
- FEMA: Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK)
- Ready.gov: Build a Kit
- UK Government: Prepare
- Ready Scotland: Household Emergency Planning
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend a fortune to be prepared for emergencies. By using free official resources and following expert checklists, you can build a 72-hour survival kit tailored to your family’s needs. Start small, use what you have, and add extra items over time for greater peace of mind.