Skip to main content
The consultation of English-language content is governed by the Charter of the French Language and its regulations. Please note that the content on this site is automatically translated and may not always be perfectly accurate.

72-hour kit

Associated with the page Public safety

Are youready for 72 hours?

In the event of an emergency, you may be called upon to provide for yourself for up to 72 hours while awaiting the assistance or restoration of essential services, such as an ice storm or heavy snowstorm, a long-term water shut-off (major water main break), a power failure, an environmental accident or a hazardous materials spill.

Did you know that it’s your responsibility to think ahead and provide for yourself for at least 72 hours?

  • Put these items in a backpack or bin in advance.
  • If you have reduced mobility, don’t forget your cane, walker or wheelchair.

Emergency kit for your pet


Don’t forget to prepare a 72-hour kit for your pet, because he too will be a disaster victim in the event of an emergency.

Here are 7 essential items for your pet’s kit:

  • Non-perishable food (for at least 3 days);
  • Drinking water (4 L/day for a medium-sized dog and 1 L/day for a medium-sized cat);
  • Bowls and can opener for food;
  • Newspapers, plastic bags, litter or a litter box, depending on the animal;
  • A blanket and a toy;
  • A list of places to leave your pet in case you have to leave;
  • First-aid kit: pet first-aid manual, antiseptics, pair of vinyl medical examination gloves, self-adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, tick forceps, scissors, etc.

Emergency kit for your car


If you have a car, prepare a car emergency kit and leave it in the car. The basic emergency kit for cars includes the following items:

  • Non-perishable foods (such as energy bars)
  • Water (in plastic bottles to prevent breakage in the event of freezing (replace every six months))
  • Coverage
  • Change of clothes and shoes
  • First-aid kit (including seat-belt cutter)
  • Small shovel, scraper and snow broom
  • Candle in deep metal container and matches
  • Hand-crank flashlight
  • Whistle (to attract attention)
  • Road maps
  • Copy of your emergency plan and personal documents
  • In your trunk: sand, salt or cat litter (non-clumping), antifreeze/washer fluid, tow rope, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, warning light or flares

Pre-assembled kit


You can obtain a kit from the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, the Salvation Army or a retailer.


Prepare your emergency plan now!

A family emergency plan is an essential step in preparing your family for emergencies. It’s a clear guide to what to do, where to go and how to stay safe in unexpected situations such as flooding, fire, major power failure or emergency evacuation.


Do you know the civil protection logo?

The international civil protection logo is recognized the world over. It helps identify people who can help in emergency or disaster situations.

  • The triangle represents stability, balance and harmony;
  • Orange, visible from afar, means alert;
  • Blue is the color of peace.


Learn to recognize it!

Was this page helpful?

Parking permitted