We’ve all heard how important it is to have an emergency kit ready to go with everything you need for at least 72 hours. What you may have not considered is how important the organization of that emergency kit is. It’s not enough to toss some supplies in a box; having an emergency kit loaded with thoughtful tools + supplies in an easy-to-understand organization pattern is critical.

Here are 4 reasons why you need to have an organized emergency kit:

1. 30 Second Test

Imagine you’re in an emergency. Maybe it’s the first few minutes after the ground stops shaking or a massive storm has just knocked out power to your house. Being able to find any tool or supply in your emergency kit in 30 seconds or less can be the thing that keeps your family safe. Thoughtful organization and clear labels make that happen.

2. Yes, Emergency Kits Expire!

The hard truth is that emergency kits don’t last forever. The most important items like long-term food, water, and first aid supplies generally need to be refreshed every 3-5 years. Having a clearly labeled and organized kit can help you stay on top of what needs to be refreshed and when.

At Redfora every kit comes standard with the Redfora Refresh program that sends you email reminders about expiring items, but if you’ve made your own kit or have one from somewhere else, be sure to write expiration dates on the supplies that need to be refreshed and make a habit to check in with your supplies at least once a year.

3. Make It Universal

You won’t be the only person using your emergency kit. Having everything clearly organized and labeled means your child, spouse, neighbor, or even a first responder could grab the kit and find exactly what they need in a pinch. Organize your supplies in a way that would make sense to anyone.

4. Rest Easier

At the end of the day, having an organized emergency kit can help you rest easier knowing that you not only have the important tools and supplies, but could grab anything you need quickly and re-organize it in seconds.

How to organize an emergency kit:

• Consider organizing out your food, water, tools, and supplies into smaller intuitive packs. You definitely want to avoid a giant bag or box full of loose supplies.

• Be sure to label each pack with what’s inside so you’ll be able to find it quickly but also return it to the appropriate location should you ever need to lose it.

• Don’t forget about expiration dates and making those easy to find and setting reminders for yourself to check in on your emergency kit at least once a year.

The Organized & Color-Coordinated Emergency Kit

The Complete Earthquake Bag from Redfora comes standard with a fully redesigned color-coded supply pack system. You’ll be able to find anything inside your bag in less than 30 seconds.

Even better? Each pack includes a QR code to access our Video Supply Guide Library where you can watch videos of an expert outlining what’s inside, how to use it, and pro tips to be ready for anything.