Check emergency kit

Review your emergency kit to replace expired items, restock supplies, check flashlight batteries, and verify fire extinguisher readiness.

Why it matters#

After a major disaster, you may need to survive on your own for several days before help arrives. Supplies you tucked away three years ago may have expired water, dead batteries, and medications that are no longer effective. A working flashlight and fire extinguisher can make the difference between a minor incident and a tragedy. This annual checkup ensures your preparations will actually work.

What you'll need#

Materials#

• Replacement batteries
• Fresh water
• Updated supplies as needed

Steps#

1. Check water supplies#

You need one gallon per person per day for at least three days—more is better. Replace home-stored water every 6 months. Commercially bottled water lasts longer but check expiration dates.

2. Review food supplies#

Check expiration dates on all non-perishable food. Rotate by using older items and replacing with fresh. Ensure you have a manual can opener if canned goods require one.

3. Test flashlights and replace batteries#

Turn on every flashlight and verify brightness. Replace batteries in all flashlights annually, even if they still work—you want full power during an emergency. Keep spare batteries stored near (not in) flashlights.

4. Inspect fire extinguisher#

Check that the pressure gauge needle is in the green zone. Verify the safety pin and tamper seal are in place. Look for rust, dents, or damage. Confirm it's accessible—not buried behind boxes in the garage.

5. Audit first aid kit#

Open your kit and check expiration dates on medications, antibiotic ointments, and other products. Replace anything expired or with damaged packaging. Verify you have adequate bandages and supplies for your family size.

6. Check medications#

If you keep prescription medications in your emergency supplies, verify they're not expired. Rotate by using oldest prescriptions first and replenishing. Keep an updated list of all family medications.

7. Review seasonal needs#

Before winter: add blankets, warm clothing, hand warmers. Before hurricane season: ensure you have tarps, duct tape, and a plan. Adjust your kit for your region's specific risks.

8. Update documents and contacts#

Verify emergency contact numbers are current. Update copies of important documents (insurance, ID, prescriptions). Ensure someone out of the area knows your emergency plan.

Pro tips#

• Store emergency supplies in a cool, dry place—extreme garage temperatures can degrade items faster
• Assign each family member a role in emergency preparedness; kids can help check flashlights and organize supplies
• Keep smaller kits in your car and at work—emergencies don't always happen at home

Warnings#

• If your fire extinguisher gauge is in the red zone, the unit may not work when you need it—replace or have it professionally recharged immediately
• Never use expired medications—they may be ineffective or even harmful

When to call a pro#

Fire extinguishers need professional inspection annually per NFPA guidelines—fire protection companies offer this service. Otherwise, emergency supply maintenance is entirely DIY. Your local fire department can often advise on emergency preparedness and may offer free home safety checks.