This post is part of a series by the Energy and Climate Change team at Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County to connect area residents to disaster preparedness resources. Our area is expected to experience more intense storm events in the coming years due to climate change. Taking steps today to prepare for emergencies can make a huge impact in staying safe tomorrow.

Remember, while this list is based on a training prepared by the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, it should not be your last stop on your preparedness journey! Each go-bag, like each situation, should be specific to your needs. We always recommend checking in with experts such as the American Red Cross or NYS DHSES. For a list of upcoming trainings, please click here.

Once you’ve got the starter kit, add these to make it truly New York-ready.

Power & Light

• Hand-crank or solar flashlight/radio combo
• Small battery bank (pre-charged) for phones
• Spare batteries in a waterproof pouch

Warmth & Weather

• Wool socks, thermal layers, hat, gloves
• Lightweight rain poncho
• Emergency bivy sack or compact sleeping bag

Food & Water

• High-calorie energy bars or freeze-dried meals (7–10 days)
• Water purification tablets or filter straw
• Manual can opener

Health & Safety

• Personal medications (7–10 day supply)
• Spare eyeglasses or contact lenses
• Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm
• N95 masks (for smoke or dust)

Tools & Protection

• Multi-tool or folding knife
• Paracord or rope (50 feet)
• Seatbelt cutter/window-breaker tool
• Waterproof matches or lighter

Documents & Money

• Photocopies of IDs, insurance, and medical info (sealed in waterproof bag)
• USB flash drive with digital copies
• Small bills in cash

For Pets

• 7–10 days of food
• Collapsible water bowl
• Leash/harness, carrier, vet records, medications