The 10 Must-Have Items for Your Emergency Kit (Plus How Smart Home Security Can Help)
Emergencies are unpredictable—but your response to them doesn’t have to be. Whether you're facing a natural disaster, extended power outage, or unexpected disruption, a well-prepared emergency kit can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk through the 10 essential items every home emergency kit should include and highlight how smart home security systems and automation can complement your preparedness plan.
1. Water Supply
Store at least one gallon of water per person per day, enough for three days minimum. Water is essential for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
Smart tip: A smart leak detector can help you monitor water systems and avoid contamination from burst pipes or flooding before it disrupts your supply.
2. Non-Perishable Food
Keep a supply of shelf-stable foods such as canned vegetables, peanut butter, granola bars, and dried fruits. Choose items with long expiration dates and low preparation requirements.
3. First Aid Kit
Every emergency kit should have a well-stocked first aid kit. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, gloves, tweezers, pain relievers, and essential medications.
4. Flashlight and Extra Batteries
When the power goes out, a reliable flashlight is crucial. Choose LED or waterproof models and keep extra batteries in your kit.
Smart lighting systems with battery backup or voice-activated controls can light critical areas during outages, without needing to fumble in the dark.
5. Portable Phone Charger or Power Bank
A high-capacity portable charger keeps your phone powered for emergency calls, GPS navigation, and weather alerts.
A smart home security system with a backup battery ensures continued operation—and 24/7 monitoring—even when the power is down.
6. Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife
Versatile tools like a multi-tool or pocketknife are useful for repairs, opening cans, or cutting through packaging in emergencies.
While it’s not a substitute, smart locks and connected garage doors can reduce the need for manual overrides in a power outage.
7. Whistle
A whistle is a compact, effective way to signal for help if you’re trapped or need to alert rescuers to your location.
Smart motion detectors and door sensors can automatically trigger an alert when unusual activity is detected.
8. Hygiene and Sanitation Supplies
Include hand sanitizer, soap, disinfecting wipes, toilet paper, and trash bags to manage hygiene without regular plumbing access.
Smart water sensors can monitor sump pumps or alert you to issues with your sanitation setup during flooding or backup.
9. Emergency Blanket and Extra Clothing
Include blankets, warm layers, socks, gloves, and a waterproof jacket. These help maintain body temperature in cold or wet conditions.
Smart thermostats can pre-heat your home before a storm hits or keep it cool during extreme heat if grid conditions allow.
10. Emergency Documents and Contact Information
Store copies of IDs, insurance policies, medical records, and emergency contacts in a waterproof pouch or fireproof safe for added security.
Some smart home hubs let you securely store emergency contacts and access local alerts directly from your dashboard.
How Smart Home Security Supports Emergency Preparedness
A traditional emergency kit covers the basics—but integrating smart home security and automation adds real-time visibility and control that can protect your family and property before, during, and after a crisis.
Here’s how:
24/7 Monitoring: Professionally monitored systems can alert emergency services automatically, even if you can’t.
Mobile Access: Stay informed and in control through real-time app notifications, no matter where you are.
Smart Sensors: Water leak, smoke, and carbon monoxide sensors detect dangers early and trigger alerts.
Automated Routines: Schedule lights, locks, and thermostats to prepare your home for inclement weather or evacuations.
Emergencies don’t come with a warning—but with the right emergency kit and smart home system, you won’t need one. These 10 essential items cover the physical supplies you’ll need, while smart security tools offer the proactive protection and communication that traditional kits can’t.
Want to learn more about how smart home security can make your emergency plan even stronger? Contact us today for a free consultation or explore our professionally installed systems.
