How to Prepare an Emergency Kit

The philosophy of being prepared doesn’t just apply to doomsday types. While we won’t fan the flame of panic and worry, we do think it’s smart to acquire supplies you and your family might need in the event of an earthquake, fire, other natural disaster, or alas, a global pandemic. So let’s take a deep breath, then go through the basics of how to prepare an emergency kit.

What to Put in an Emergency Kit

Creating an emergency preparedness kit isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor. As you build yours, be sure to consider your family’s specific needs, which may include dietary restrictions, medical supplies, or pet health. If you have a dedicated area such as a spare closet or garage shelf, get started by filling it with member-favorite items from Seventh Generation. These are handy to have on hand anytime, but are especially useful during an emergency.

Seventh Generation Tampons with Comfort Applicator

Stay covered for that time of the month with 100 percent Certified Organic Cotton tampons. They offer leak-free protection and are made from 95 percent plant-based materials.

Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner

Banish germs for good using a powerful disinfecting spray designed with patented technology to rid your surfaces of 99.9 percent of household germs. Order a bottle or two to keep on hand for tackling messes at home if you’re hunkered down.

Seventh Generation Unbleached Toilet Paper Bath Tissue

These rolls are made with a minimum of 80 percent post-consumer content, and are safe for septic tanks, too. You can stock up knowing this recycled paper saves energy, water, and trees—while still providing softness.

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent, EasyDose Ultra Concentrated, Free & Clear

Tough on stains yet easy on the earth, this ultra concentrated detergent cleans up to 66 loads, using 60 percent less plastic and 50 percent less water than your standard 100-ounce bottle.

Different Types of Emergency Kits

After you’re all set with paper goods and cleaning products, review the four kits below and pick up any items you need to fill it up.

Emergency Medical Kit

The Mayo Clinic has a pretty extensive list of items to include in an emergency medical kit—here are some of the highlights.

• Prescription medications
• Copies of prescriptions
• Bandages
• Instant cold packs
• Feminine products
• Hand sanitizer
• Petroleum jelly
• Thermometer
• Aloe vera gel
• Cough and cold medications
• Pain relievers

Emergency Food Kit

Shelf-stable items are the main attraction when it comes to stocking an emergency food supply. Having enough food on hand to feed your family for up to one week should be sufficient as a place to start, but if you have the storage, consider upping your provisions. Don’t forget to stash a can opener!

• Canned fish
• Jerky
• Dried or canned fruit
• Canned vegetables
• Canned beans
• Unsalted nuts and seeds
• Whole grain crackers
• Protein and energy bars
• Non-dairy milks in shelf-stable packaging

Pet Kit

Don’t forget about Fido! Here are the items you’ll want in your pet-focused emergency kit.

• Contact information for vets, pet-friendly hotels, or boarding facilities
• Bottled water
• Food for one to two weeks
• Pet life jacket and paw protectors
• Pet first aid kit
• Vaccination records and medical history
• List of medications
• Photos of your pet in case of separation

Car Emergency Kit

If you live in an area prone to earthquakes or tornadoes, keep a kit in your car in case one occurs when you’re at work or running errands.

• Running or walking shoes
• Socks
• Sweatshirt or wrap
• Protein bars
• Bottled water
• First aid kit
• Flashlight (with spare batteries)
• Blanket or space blanket
• Flares or triangle reflectors

Emergency Kit List Ideas

Now that you know what to put in an emergency kit, let Thrive Market help you stock up on emergency supplies. Here are the best brands and products to help you feel more prepared for any situation.

Thrive Market Non-GMO Chunk Albacore Tuna

Fuel up with protein with chunk albacore tuna. It’s seasoned with a pinch of sea salt, and works for gluten-free and paleo diets.

Thrive Market Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Tuna always gets the spotlight, but canned sardines are worth a look. These little fish pack in 17g of protein per serving, plus vitamin D and potassium.

Chomps Original Grass-Fed Beef Snack Sticks

Beef sticks to the rescue. Made with grass-fed beef jerky, these sticks are a little bit smoky and a little bit spicy.

Serenity Kids Organic Sweet Potato & Spinach with Avocado Oil Baby Food

Keep little ones well-nourished with handy veggie packs from Serenity Kids. This organic food blends sweet potato and spinach with a touch of avocado oil, and offers some protein, potassium, and calcium.

RE: Botanicals Organic Hemp CBD Relief Body Oil, Lavender

Emergencies can be stressful. If full-spectrum hemp oil is part of your routine, keep an extra body oil roller handy. It features a soothing lavender scent and helps you get the support you need.