A Mother’s Guide to War-Time Readiness: The Ultimate Family Emergency Checklist

As a mom, nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our family—especially during uncertain times like now. With global tensions rising and concerns about possible conflicts impacting our daily lives, having a solid emergency preparedness plan can make all the difference.

This guide is designed specifically for busy moms who want to feel confident and ready, without the overwhelm. Below, you’ll find the ultimate family emergency checklist to help you prepare for any disruptions—whether it’s power outages, supply chain interruptions, or more serious emergencies related to geopolitical events.

Why Prepare Now?

Emergencies don’t announce themselves. Whether it’s a cyberattack disrupting utilities, unexpected protests, or a natural disaster compounding stress, having your home stocked and your plan ready gives you peace of mind. It also helps your little ones feel safe and secure.

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The Ultimate Family Emergency Checklist

Power & Communications

• Portable power banks (10,000mAh or higher, solar preferred)

• Solar-powered or hand-crank radio with NOAA alerts and USB charging

• Handheld ham radios: Budget Friendly Option, Long Range Option

• Walkie talkies

• Headlamps and extra batteries

• LED lantern

• Battery-powered or solar phone charger

• Surge protectors

• Faraday bags (to protect electronics from electromagnetic pulses or cyber disruptions)

Water Supply

• At least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3–7 days

• Water purification tablets or LifeStraw filters

• Collapsible water containers or jugs

• Unscented bleach (for water purification)

Food Supply

• Non-perishable foods: canned goods, rice, beans, nut butters, oats, dried fruit

• Ready-to-eat meals (MREs or freeze-dried foods)

• Manual can opener

• Baby/toddler food and formula (if applicable)

• Snacks and comfort food

Hygiene & Sanitation

• Toilet paper, baby wipes, and paper towels

• Trash bags and zip-top bags

• Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes or spray

• Feminine hygiene products

• Toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, deodorant

Medical & First Aid

• First aid kit: Deluxe, Standard (bandages, antiseptic, gloves, etc.)

• Prescription medications (aim for a 2-week backup supply)

• N95 masks for adults and kids or respirator mask

• Potassium iodide tablets (for protection in case of nuclear radiation exposure)

• Thermometer

• Cold packs

• Over-the-counter meds (pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal, cough syrup)

Baby/Toddler Essentials (if needed)

• Diapers (at least one week’s supply)

• Wipes

• Formula and bottles

• Baby food or pouches

• Portable sound machine and blackout cover for comfort

• Baby Carrier, Fabric Wrap or Structured

Safety & Survival Gear

• Multi-tool (Swiss Army knife or Leatherman)

• Fire extinguisher or Fire Blankets

• Duct tape and plastic sheeting (can seal windows/doors if needed)

• Gloves and extra N95 masks

• Whistle

• Cash (small bills)

• Copies of important documents (IDs, medical info, emergency contacts)

• Printed emergency contact list

• Paper maps of your local area

Go-Bag / Bug-Out Bag (one per adult)

• Change of clothes and underwear

• Sturdy shoes

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Lightweight food and water

• Copies of documents

• Medications

• Emergency blanket

• ID and emergency contacts

Extras (Nice to Haves)

• Ponchos

• Portable Fan

• Umbrellas

• Camping Tent with Rainfly

• Camping Stove

• Safety Goggles

• Safety/Hazmat Suit

Being prepared doesn’t mean living in fear—it means taking back control and ensuring your family’s safety no matter what happens. This checklist is your roadmap to feeling confident and ready.

I've also created a printable version of this checklist you can download and keep handy. Click the link below to download it.

DC_Emergency_Preparedness_Checklist_2025-06-22.xlsx

Download XLSX • 7KB