Buy an Emergency Kit: What is an Emergency Kit?

An emergency kit is a carefully prepared set of items you need to survive during a disaster or emergency. Think of basic necessities like toilet paper, wet wipes, bottled water, medications, and personal care items. An emergency kit also contains non-perishable food , such as Seven Oceans emergency rations, rice, pasta, canned vegetables, or dried fruit. With this basic supply, you can survive for at least 72 hours without outside help. Sufficient, clean, and safe drinking water are essential in any emergency kit to prevent dehydration and health risks.

The kit is designed for various emergency situations, such as floods, power outages, cyberattacks, or war. Many of the products can be easily found in your pantry or supermarket, but it's important to stock up on these essential items and have them ready as an emergency supply or survival kit, so you're always prepared. This keeps the kit affordable and practical.

Why preparation is important

Being well prepared provides peace of mind and security. During an emergency, assistance can sometimes take days. An emergency kit prevents panic and ensures your family is safe. It's also wise to create an emergency plan: write down important phone numbers, agree on a meeting point with family, and always keep your kit in an accessible location. Also remember the importance of being prepared for evacuation; a good emergency plan ensures you're well-prepared for an emergency and can act quickly if you need to leave.

Prepping isn't just about gathering supplies; it's also about communication and collaboration. By taking precautions beforehand, like assembling an emergency kit and checking it regularly, you'll be ready to act quickly and safely.

Create an emergency kit

Putting together an emergency kit is easier than you think. You can easily assemble one because you often already have most of the items at home. Start with a sturdy, waterproof backpack or bag so your belongings are protected and portable. Don't forget the importance of waterproof packaging, so essential items like documents, medications, and food stay well-protected.

Examples of essential items:

• Food & Water : Emergency rations, dried beans, rice, pasta, dried fruit, bottled water or a water filter .
• Energy & light : flashlight or headlamp, extra batteries, power bank, emergency radio with crank or solar panel.
• Health & Safety : First aid kit, medication, emergency blanket, hygiene items such as toilet paper, wet wipes, toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Documents & tools : ID, cash, copies of important papers, spare keys, a knife or multi-tool, and a whistle.
• Extras for your situation : baby food, vitamins or specific medicines.

When choosing products, consider shelf life and ease of use. Always choose items that can be used for at least 72 hours without additional preparation.

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Communication and assistance in emergencies

During an emergency, communication is vital. Being well-prepared means not only having enough food and water, but also being able to quickly call for help if needed. Therefore, always keep a list of important phone numbers, such as those of emergency services and family members, in your emergency kit.

A battery-powered radio is a must-have in your standard emergency kit. This will keep you informed of important government announcements, even during a power outage. A charged power bank is also essential so you can continue using your mobile phone to stay in touch or call for help.

By including these communication tools as standard in your emergency kit, you'll be better prepared for various emergencies. This way, you can be sure you can always stay in touch with the outside world and quickly call for help when needed.

Check and maintain your emergency kit

An emergency kit isn't a one-time purchase. Carefully check and store your emergency supplies and the contents of your kit every six months. Check the contents at least twice a year and replace items that are nearing their expiration date . Store the kit in a cool, dry place and ensure you can easily take it with you in case of evacuation.

Some products, like honey, have a virtually unlimited shelf life. Other items, such as batteries and medications, require regular replacement. It's important to regularly check and properly store your emergency supplies so you're always assured of a usable supply when you need it most.

Emergency kit contents: non-perishable food

Non-perishable food is the core of any emergency kit. Consider:

• emergency rations (e.g. Seven Oceans)
• dried fruit
• rice and pasta
• beans or lentils
• canned vegetables or soup

Choose foods that require little cooking time and keep well under various conditions. It's important that you can prepare food quickly and easily in an emergency, so your family has enough energy during a disaster or calamity.

Conclusion

A well-prepared emergency kit, also known as a survival kit, will prepare you for the first 72 hours of an emergency. By combining water, food, energy, first aid supplies, and personal items, you'll give yourself and your family peace of mind and safety.

For added accessibility, explanatory videos in Dutch Sign Language are available, in which Dutch Sign Language explains how to put together an emergency kit.

👉 Want to be prepared for unforeseen events? Browse our selection and buy your emergency kit now .