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Creating an Emergency Kit
When emergencies happen, having an emergency kit can help you stay safe and calm. For home sharing households, it’s especially important to plan ahead. An emergency kit gives you the supplies you need to get through a power outage, wildfire evacuation, earthquake, or storm. 
What Should Be in an Emergency Kit?
Start with the basics. Everyone in your home needs:
- Water – at least 4 litres per person per day
- Food – canned goods, granola bars, baby food (if needed)
- Flashlight and batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle – to call for help
- Warm blanket or sleeping bag
- Phone charger and power bank
- Cash – small bills and coins
- Face masks and hand sanitizer
Make sure everything is easy to grab and use in a hurry.
Example
In East Vancouver, a winter storm knocked out power for 18 hours. Liz, who shares her home with Daniel, a young man with Down syndrome, had packed their emergency kit with snacks, his seizure medication, and a hand-crank radio. She also included a card with simple instructions and emergency contacts. Because of that, Daniel stayed calm, and they were safe until the power came back.
Customize the Kit for Your Household
Every home is different. Think about the specific needs of the person you support:
- Medications – with instructions and copies of prescriptions
- Mobility aids – extra batteries for wheelchairs, walkers, or canes
- Communication tools – picture cards, whiteboards, or devices
- Sensory or comfort items – noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, blankets
- Extra glasses, hearing aids, or dentures (if needed)
Make sure support animals have what they need too—leash, food, and water.
Storing and Maintaining the Kit
- Use a backpack or plastic bin with wheels, something easy to carry.
- Store it in a place everyone can reach, like near the front door or hallway.
- Check it every 6 months. Replace expired food, batteries, and medication.
- Label the kit clearly and add your household’s name and emergency contacts.
How to Involve Everyone
Involve the person you support in making the kit:
- Let them choose snacks or a comfort item.
- Use visuals or a checklist to show what’s in the kit.
- Practice using some of the tools (like the flashlight or whistle).
- Explain when and why you would use the kit—in a calm and clear way.
This helps build trust and makes the emergency feel less scary.
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