Emergency Kit Checklist for Typhoons: Be Prepared, Stay Safe

Water

Water is the most important item. Humans can survive weeks without food, but only days without water.

• Drinking water: Store at least 3 liters per person per day for 3–5 days.
• Water purification: Tablets or a portable filter can help if your supply runs out or tap water becomes unsafe.

ALife Tip: Rotate your water supply every 6 months to ensure freshness. Label bottles with the date you stored them.

Food & Nutrition

Speed and efficiency ensure tasks are completed quickly and resources are used optimally, enhancing productivity and satisfaction.

Non-perishable foods keep you nourished when cooking isn’t possible.

• Canned goods like sardines, corned beef, and beans
• Instant noodles or rice packs for quick meals
• Energy bars or dried fruits for snacks
• Manual can opener (don’t forget this!)

Families with babies, elderly members, or special dietary needs should stock specific items like formula, soft foods, or supplements.

Mini story: One Cebuano family shared that having a week’s supply of canned goods saved them from going hungry during a recent typhoon when the roads were flooded.

First Aid & Health

Accidents happen more often during storms. A well-stocked first aid kit can prevent minor injuries from becoming serious.

• Bandages, antiseptic, and adhesive tape
• Pain relievers, fever reducers, antihistamines
• Prescription medications (at least a week’s supply)
• Masks and hand sanitizer to reduce infections

ALife Tip: Keep a small first aid kit in your evacuation bag so it’s easy to carry if you have to leave home quickly.

Lighting & Communication

Typhoons often knock out electricity. Staying informed and having light is crucial.

• Flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio to catch emergency broadcasts
• Fully charged power banks for your phones
• Keep a list of emergency contacts printed on paper in case your devices fail

ALife Tip: Teach your kids to use the flashlight safely. A simple habit can prevent accidents in the dark.

Personal Safety & Comfort

Being safe and comfortable can reduce panic during a storm.

• Raincoats, ponchos, and waterproof boots
• Extra clothing, blankets, and sleeping mats
• Waterproof bags for important documents (IDs, insurance papers, bank info)

Mini story: During a recent typhoon in Northern Cebu, one family used waterproof document pouches to keep their home insurance papers safe, which made filing claims much faster after the storm.

Tools & Emergency Supplies

A few basic tools can make a huge difference if you need to secure your home or help others.

• Multipurpose knife or Swiss army tool
• Duct tape & rope for temporary repairs
• Whistle to signal for help if you’re trapped or separated

ALife Tip: Label your tools clearly and store them in a small bag. This ensures you can find them quickly in a stressful situation.

Home Protection Items

Some proactive steps at home can reduce damage and loss.

• Sandbags or barriers if flooding is expected
• Plastic sheeting to cover furniture or electronics
• Waterproof storage for valuables

ALife Tip: Check your roof, windows, and outdoor objects before a typhoon. Small preventive actions now can save thousands later.

Optional Helpful Items

While not essential, these items can improve your comfort and safety during extended typhoons:

• Cash in small denominations (ATMs may be offline)
• Local maps and printed emergency contacts
• Entertainment items for children (books, games)
• Small sewing kit, gloves, or extra shoes

Checklist

 ← Click on the icon to download our printable checklist and readable mini-guide as:

• A checklist while packing
• A reference guide during emergencies
• A family preparedness tool you can revisit every year