Building an emergency kit doesn't have to break the bank. North Carolina residents can build a well-stocked emergency kit by acquiring a few essential items each week in July and August making preparedness accessible, affordable, and less overwhelming.
Challenge Calendar
Gathering just a few items each week to build your emergency kit can make all the difference when disaster strikes.
Join us for our ReadyNC Weekly Challenge to prep a little, save a lot!
Get ready, NC! July and August are Prepare a Little, Save a Lot months. Check out this graphic that breaks down emergency kit building into weekly, budget-friendly steps.
Week 1 - Absolute Essentials
It's time to kick off your ReadyNC Weekly Challenge! Build your emergency kit, one step at a time! This week, focus on the absolute essentials: water and non-perishable food. You don't need to buy it all at once, just grab an extra jug of water or some canned goods each time you go grocery shopping.
Week 2 - Stay Connected
For Week 2 of our ReadyNC Weekly Challenge, we're focusing on light and communication to help you stay connected during outages! Add a reliable flashlight, extra batteries, and a portable phone charger to your kit. Small steps now will save you later!
Week 3 - Health and Hygiene
Your health and hygiene matter, even in an emergency! This week let's focus on essential first-aid supplies and personal care items. Think bandages, pain relievers, and hygiene products. A little at a time makes it easy!
Week 4 - Specific Needs
Preparedness means planning for everyone in your family, including your children and furry friends! For Week 5 of our ReadyNC Weekly Challenge, we encourage you to think about your family’s specific needs. Add pet food, medications, or baby supplies to your kit.
Week 5 - Comfort Keepers
You're halfway there, NC! This week’s ReadyNC challenge is to gather copies of important documents (IDs, insurance info), some cash, and a few comfort items. These small additions can provide peace of mind in stressful times.
Week 6 - Shelter Supplies and Basic Tools
Beyond the basics! For Week 6 of our ReadyNC Challenge, enhance your kit with items for shelter and basic repairs. Think a cozy blanket, a multi-tool, or a whistle. Small additions for greater safety!
Week 7 - Power and Information Access
Boost your resilience! Week 7 of our ReadyNC Challenge focuses on advanced power and information access. Consider a solar charger for your devices or a hand-crank radio for news updates. Stay informed, even during outages!
Week 8 - Kit Review
You've done an incredible job building your kit, NC! For our final week of the ReadyNC Challenge it's time for a kit review. Check expiration dates, update documents, and discuss your emergency plan with your household. Preparedness is ongoing!
