Why this matters
In an emergency, the decisions you make in the first few minutes determine outcomes. Having a simple plan prepared in advance removes panic and saves lives.
What you need
Pen and paper
A bag or container for an emergency kit
Basic supplies: water, food, torch, first aid items, important documents
These are everyday items. If you don’t have one, look for the closest alternative — the steps will tell you what to use instead.
How to do it
Follow these steps in order. Take your time. You’ve got this.
Identify the most likely emergencies in your area — flood, fire, drought, conflict, earthquake. Your plan should focus on these specific risks.
Agree on a meeting point with your family that everyone knows, in case you are separated. Choose somewhere safe, easy to find, and away from the likely hazard.
Pack a basic emergency bag: water for 3 days (3 liters per person per day), non-perishable food, a torch with spare batteries, a first aid kit, copies of important documents in a waterproof bag, any essential medications, and a small amount of cash.
Know your nearest evacuation route. Walk it once so everyone in your household is familiar with it. Identify two routes in case the first is blocked.
Write down important phone numbers on paper — emergency services, a relative in another area, a neighbour. Phones die. Paper does not.
Your one thing today
Spend 30 minutes today starting your emergency bag with whatever you already have at home.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Do this one thing now, even if it’s small.
Come back tomorrow
A new skill will be waiting for you tomorrow. Or if you’d like to keep learning today, explore the full library.