International Emergency Kit Day

History of International Emergency Kit Day

The idea of emergency preparedness kits goes back to WWII when civilians were given survival guides by governments. These guides gave instructions on what to do and where to go in an emergency and also encouraged families to prepare shelters that had emergency supplies. Emergency preparedness reached fever pitch during the Cold War when fallout shelters were popular. Some of these were fully built-out underground homes that were stockpiled with supplies to last a long time.

While some sort of federal emergency department has existed in the U.S. for many years, it wasn’t until 1979 that the Federal Emergency Management Agency was legally created. President Jimmy Carter signed Executive Order 12127, which saw the creation of this agency. FEMA promoted the 72-hour kit, encouraging families to ensure they can be self-sufficient for at least three days. In the last two decades, natural disasters and other emergencies have highlighted how crucial it is to have an emergency kit prepared.

Today’s emergency kits reflect lessons learned from decades of disasters, incorporating modern technology such as solar chargers and water purification systems while maintaining focus on basic survival necessities that have remained constant throughout history.

International Emergency Kit Day FAQs

When is International Emergency Kit Day?

International Emergency Kit Day 2026 falls on Thursday, July 9. This annual observance serves as a vital reminder to assess your readiness for unforeseen emergencies.

How many Americans are prepared for an emergency?

According to a 2024 FEMA survey, only about 48% of Americans feel prepared for a disaster, highlighting a significant gap in readiness. This day aims to close that gap.

What should be in an emergency kit?

A basic emergency kit should include water (one gallon per person per day for several days), non-perishable food, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a flashlight, a first aid kit, extra batteries, a whistle, a dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape, moist towelettes, garbage bags, a wrench or pliers, a manual can opener, local maps, and a cell phone with chargers.

What is the difference between an emergency kit and a 'go bag'?

An emergency kit is a broader term for supplies needed to sustain you during a disaster, often stored at home. A ‘go bag’ (or bug-out bag) is a subset: a smaller, portable kit designed for quick evacuation, containing essentials for 72 hours of survival.

International Emergency Kit Day Activities

Check your current emergency kit

Take inventory of what emergency supplies you already have at home, in your car, and at work. Check expiration dates on food, water, medications, and batteries. Create a list of missing items that need to be purchased or updated to ensure your emergency kit meets current safety standards.

Build your 72-hour kits

Assemble a comprehensive emergency kit that can sustain your family for at least three days without outside assistance. Include essential items such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Store everything in waterproof containers and keep kits easily accessible in multiple locations.

Do practice scenarios with your family

Conduct emergency drills with your household to ensure everyone knows where emergency supplies can be found and how to use them properly. Practice different scenarios like power outages, severe weather, or evacuation procedures. Assign specific responsibilities to each family member and review your emergency plan regularly.

5 Necessary Emergency Kit Items

Water and water storage

Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene needs.

First aid supplies

First-aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, prescription medications, thermometer, and emergency contact information — don't forget any special medication such as inhalers or insulin.

Non-perishable food

Ensure there is a three-day supply of foods such as energy bars, canned food, dried fruit, and nuts — pack a can opener too.

Important documents

Make physical and digital copies of IDs, medical records, and insurance policies and store them on a USB and in waterproof containers.

Flashlights and batteries

Store flashlights and extra batteries in kits and throughout the house.

Why We Love International Emergency Kit Day

It encourages family safety and preparedness

Preparing an emergency kit together can be a good opportunity to discuss any questions family members may have. It's a chance to educate and reduce anxiety about disasters or emergencies.

It gives you peace of mind

Don't let unexpected events catch you off guard! A good emergency kit can really help. Knowing you have all the essentials on hand allows you to stay calm and think clearly, which is just as important as having the supplies themselves.

It fosters community

Well-prepared individuals strengthen entire communities by reducing the burden on emergency services during disasters. When neighbors are equipped with proper emergency supplies, they can assist each other and contribute to overall community recovery efforts. Emergency preparedness creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone in the area.