Adapt a packing list to your household

1. Work from a normal day

Think through drinking, eating, warmth, lighting, communication and hygiene during a usual day. Add accessibility equipment, caregiving needs and pet supplies where relevant. For medicines or medical devices, plan with the prescribing professional or supplier rather than using a generic app quantity.

Public Safety Canada recommends adapting kits to household needs and keeping supplies accessible. Treat its list as a basis for discussion, not proof that every household has the same requirements.

Basis: Public Safety Canada — Get an emergency kit

2. Separate carry items from home stock

An original example is a small carry bag containing a light, contact card and suitable ready-to-use supplies, with bulkier reserve items in a labelled home box. This is a layout example; it does not prescribe quantities or what someone should physically carry.

Use the worksheet to identify an item’s purpose and whether another person or accessible transport is needed. Avoid putting the same “packed” check beside an item that is still ordered, stored elsewhere or unusable without an adapter.

3. Inspect what makes the item usable

Check packaging dates, equipment instructions, correct batteries and the ability to open containers. A working flashlight with the wrong spare battery is an unresolved task. Record the actual storage location privately.

Choose a review date with the household. Begin with items you already own and can use, then fill identified gaps. A count of checked boxes is an organization aid, not a readiness or safety score.