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An emergency kit

Components of an emergency kit (including a first aid kit)
By putting together an emergency kit at home, you will be prepared to evacuate quickly or bridge a few hours without power. Make sure this kit is in an accessible place in your home that is known by all family members. Check the contents of your kit regularly and replace items that have already been used or have expired. 

It can also be useful to have an emergency kit in the car, which you can use in case of difficult weather conditions, a breakdown or an accident, for instance.

What should you put in an emergency kit? 

At home

  • A basic first aid kit: bandages, plasters, compresses, scissors, tweezers, safety pins, painkillers, disinfectants, etc.
    • Do you or a family member need to take necessary medication? Provide a reserve supply in your kit. 
  • Bottles of water
  • A mobile phone charger or external battery
  • Important documents. For instance copies of insurance policies.
  • A torch, preferably one that can be wound up with a handle. If you prefer a battery-operated torch, make sure you have spare batteries too
  • A battery-operated radio. This way, you can listen to the media even during a power outage.
  • A lighter or matches
  • A multifunctional pocket knife
  • An evacuation checklist: a list of personal items, e.g. toiletries bag, identity card, games for your children.

In the car

  • Bottles of water and non-perishable food (cereal bars)
  • First aid kit and manual
  • A torch, preferably one that can be wound up with a handle. If you prefer a battery-operated torch, make sure you have spare batteries too
  • Jump leads
  • A GPS device or road maps
  • Collision form
  • Fluorescent vests for all passengers
  • A warning triangle
  • In winter:
    • Blanket(s)
    • Gloves
    • Warm clothes and boots
    • Scraper
    • Games to keep your children occupied
  • In summer:
    • Sunglasses
    • Extra bottles of water
    • A sun shade
    • Games to keep your children occupied