What to put in a tornado emergency kit

ATLANTA — When a tornado warning is issued, every second counts. That’s why emergency managers say it is critical to have a safety kit and plan in place before severe weather strikes.  

It’s important to store your kit in the safest place inside your home — typically a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows and doors. The goal is to have essential supplies within reach if you need to shelter quickly or remain there for an extended period.

Keep your tornado emergency kit in a sturdy, portable container — like a backpack — and store it in your safe room. 

Your tornado emergency kit should include items that help you stay aware of warnings and handle basic needs if power is lost.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency and National Weather Service recommend the following key items:  

1. NOAA weather radio with extra batteries

2. Flashlight or headlamp

3. Extra batteries

4. Portable phone charger or power bank

5. First aid kit

6. Bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day)

7. Non-perishable food such as granola bars or canned goods

8. Manual can opener

Tornadoes often cause widespread damage, leaving broken glass, splintered wood and other hazards. Adding a few protective items can help reduce the risk of injury.

Helmets are increasingly recommended by meteorologists and emergency officials because many tornado injuries involve head trauma from flying debris.

Your kit should also include supplies that meet your household’s specific needs.

• Prescription medications

• Glasses or contact lenses

• Infant supplies such as formula or diapers

• Pet food and water

• Important documents sealed in a waterproof bag

• A whistle to signal for help if you become trapped

Comfort items like a blanket or small pillow can also make sheltering more manageable, especially for children.  It is also a good idea to keep cash on hand, as bank machines may not be available.

Emergency managers recommend checking your tornado safety kit at least once or twice a year, ideally before peak severe weather season in the spring. Replace expired food, rotate batteries and update medications as needed.

You should also make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is located and where to shelter when severe weather strikes.

When a tornado warning is issued — or in rare cases a tornado emergency, the most urgent type of warning — there is no time to search for supplies. Being prepared with an emergency kit helps you respond quickly and stay safe during tornadoes or any natural disaster.

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