We live in a world that’s unpredictable. Without warning, we may have to make quick decisions that impact the health and safety of our loved ones. It’s easy to assume that we’ll be able to gather what we need when something unexpected happens. But few of us really know what will make the difference.

Imagine that your neighborhood begins to flood in the middle of the night. You may have to leave your home quickly, or wait until local authorities can provide help. In any situation, you want to be able to take care or your family for least 72 hours. Having a well-stocked, portable, and easy-to-find emergency kit will help make sure that you have the basic supplies to keep you and your family safe, no matter where you are.

Let’s talk about what goes into that kit. In an emergency, the basic services we use everyday make not work. For example, your water, electricity, gas and telephone service may not work, and it may be impossible to access cash from a bank. When these services are not available, an emergency kit can provide the basics.

For example, we all need water. The rule of thumb is two liters per person per day for 72 hours or 3 days. It’s a good idea to use small bottles that can be carried easily.  Of course, we also need food. Because yoru kit needs to be ready at all times, use food that won’t spoil like canned goods, energy bars or dried food that can be stored longer. If needed, baby formula and pet food may be a good idea. And remember a multi-purpose tool that can open those cans.

So now your kit has a good start, food and water. What else? Well, it’s dark and there’s no electricity. A flashlight and radio will be handy to see where you’re going and help you stay informed. They both need power so pack extra batteries, or even better, buy the type that can be powered manually with a crank. Of course, an emergency kit wouldn’t be complete without a first aid kit with the basics like bandages, antiseptic and pain relievers.

With these items, food and water, flashlight and radio, and a first aid kit, we’ve covered the basics, but there are some items that may not be so obvious.

For example, it may be very difficult to get prescription medications in an emergency, or even long afterward. Including a couple of weeks worth of medication in the kit will help. Sanitary products like toilet paper and feminine supplies are a good idea too.

As we mentioned it may be difficult to get cash from banks, so include small bills and change as cash registers may not work.

Lastly, keeping important documents like copies of birth certificates, wills, passports and insurance policies in your kit can make it easier to stay organized in an emergency. Other documents to include are copies of your emergency plans, maps and contact information for friends and family.

We all hope that emergencies don’t occur and your kit goes unused, but that’s no reason to delay. It’s your responsibility to start gathering supplies and thinking about what your family will need for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

Having an emergency kit is an easy way to have more peace of mind in an unpredictable world.