Preparing for emergencies at school doesn’t have to be hard. From first-aid basics to extra snacks and hygiene items, packing the right supplies helps students stay calm and ready when unexpected situations happen. 

If you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll go through what to put in an emergency kit for school and why it matters.

What Is an Emergency Kit for School?

An emergency kit for school, also known as a go kit, is a bag or box filled with essentials that students and staff might need during a crisis. It makes a huge difference when something unexpected happens, like a lockdown, structure fire, or natural disaster. These kits usually cover health, safety, food, and communication, so everyone can stay calm until help arrives.

An emergency kit usually contains first aid supplies for minor injuries, water and snacks to keep energy up, and hygiene items like wipes and sanitizer. It also contains a flashlight, extra batteries, and a radio to help with communication when power is out. Plus, some kits include emergency blankets, documents with contacts, maps, and student information.

Its purpose is to keep people safe, comfortable, and prepared during emergencies. Having a school emergency kit means less panic, more confidence, and staying safe. 

10 Items to Put In an Emergency Kit for School

Making an emergency kit for school has to be practical. A solid kit should have 10 key items. Check them out below: 

1. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is one of the most important items in a school emergency kit. It contains bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers for minor injuries. You can also add prescription medications specific to students. Having these supplies on hand helps treat cuts, scrapes, or sudden health issues while waiting for professional help.

2. Flashlight With Extra Batteries

A flashlight is handy during a power outage or at night. Relying on phone lights isn’t always safe since their batteries get drained fast. Packing extra batteries makes sure the flashlight stays reliable when needed most. Plus, adequate lighting keeps everyone calm and reduces risks when moving around.

3. Whistle

A whistle lets you call for help. If someone is trapped, lost, or needs attention, using a whistle is louder than shouting. It also conserves one’s energy and makes it easier for rescuers or staff to locate students.

4. Food and Water

Clean drinking water and non-perishable food give people energy and hydration during emergencies. A few bottles of water and snacks like energy bars or crackers can keep students fueled for hours. Planning for at least a three-day supply ensures comfort and survival during emergencies. 

5. Manual Can Opener

A manual can opener is a must if your kit includes canned food. Canned goods last for a long time, but they’re useless without a way to open them. A small, sturdy can opener takes up little space and makes sure you can eat your food supply.

6. Sanitation Supplies

Staying clean during an emergency helps prevent illness. Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, garbage bags, and plastic ties should be included in your school emergency kit. They make it easier to manage hygiene when regular facilities like bathrooms aren’t available. This keeps everyone healthy and safe.

7. Battery-Powered Radio

A battery-powered or hand-crank radio allows you to receive updates when phone lines or the internet go down. Emergency broadcasts give instructions and information about the situation. Plus, staying informed helps staff and students make safer decisions.

8. Emergency Plan and Documents

Copies of emergency plans, contact lists, and student information should be part of the kit. They help teachers stay organized and communicate with families quickly. Having documents ready also reduces confusion and ensures the right steps are followed during emergencies.

9. Dust Mask

A dust mask helps when the air quality is poor, such as during fires or chemical leaks. It filters harmful particles and makes breathing safer until conditions improve or everyone evacuates. 

10. Emergency Blanket

An emergency blanket is lightweight but keeps body heat in. It helps prevent hypothermia by giving people warmth during cold conditions. It’s also easy to store and carry in any kit because it folds into a small size. 

What Items Should Be In a First Aid Kit?

Everyone at home, school, or in the car should have a first aid kit. It doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should cover the basics for cuts, scrapes, burns, and minor injuries. Here are 10 must-have items you need inside:

1. Adhesive Bandages

These are the first things most people think of when it comes to first aid. Adhesive bandages, often called plasters, are perfect for small cuts, scrapes, or blisters. They keep the wound clean and protected while it heals. Having a variety of sizes helps cover different injuries.

2. Sterile Gauze Pads

Gauze pads help with bigger cuts or wounds. They control bleeding and provide a clean layer of protection until medical care is available. They’re a must-have when bandages aren’t enough.

3. Medical Tape

Gauze pads need to stay in place. This is where medical tape comes in. It secures dressings, so wounds remain covered and safe from dirt or infection.

4. Antiseptic Wipes

You should clean a wound before covering it. Antiseptic wipes make this easy by reducing the chance of infection. They’re quick, easy to use, and don’t take up much space in the kit.

5. Antibiotic Ointment

Applying antibiotic ointment after cleaning a cut helps prevent bacteria from spreading. It also helps the wound heal faster. This little tube can make a big difference in emergencies.

6. Tweezers

Tweezers are more useful than they seem. They can remove splinters, ticks, or tiny objects stuck in the skin. Having them ready saves time and prevents the injury from getting worse.

7. Scissors

A pair of scissors is handy for cutting gauze, tape, or clothing around an injury. They make it easier to apply first aid without the struggles.

8. Disposable Non-Latex Gloves

Gloves keep both the injured person and the helper safe from germs. Non-latex ones are best since they reduce the risk of allergies. They’re a must when dealing with blood or open wounds.

9. Instant Cold Packs

Cold packs help with swelling, pain, or bruising after an injury. You don’t need to freeze them, so they’re perfect for emergencies. Just squeeze to activate and apply where needed.

10. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Medicines like ibuprofen or paracetamol help reduce pain, headaches, or fever. Having them in your first aid kit makes it easier to manage discomfort until proper treatment is available.

What Not to Put In a First Aid Kit

Knowing what not to put in a first aid kit is just as important as what to pack. Some items can be unsafe in the wrong hands. Here are a few things you should leave out:

1. Expired Medicine

Don’t include expired medicines because they’re not effective anymore. Don’t include random over-the-counter drugs as well. Plus, prescription medications should stay out unless they’re meant for a specific person, like an EpiPen.

2. Chemicals and Harsh Substances

Avoid strong chemicals or anything flammable. They can cause burns, skin irritation, or pose fire risks. Stick to first aid–approved antiseptics instead.

3. Unsafe or Unsterile Supplies

Never keep damaged, opened, or expired supplies. If the packaging is ripped or wet, it’s no longer safe to use. Also, don’t store sharp objects like loose razor blades or needles, as they can cause accidents. Use only first aid tools, like blunt-tipped scissors.

4. Loose or Unlabeled Items

Everything should remain in its original packaging and clearly labeled. Loose items confuse people and are unhygienic or unsafe to use.

5. Advanced Medical Tools

Don’t add items that need medical training, like IV kits, airway tubes, or injectable drugs. These can cause more harm than good if used incorrectly. 

What Is an Emergency Kit Checklist?

An emergency kit checklist is a guide that makes sure you and your family have the essentials during an emergency. It usually includes food, water, medications, hygiene supplies, first aid kits, and important documents. 

For example, you’ll want at least a three-day supply of prescriptions, a multi-purpose tool, and sanitation items like wipes and tissue. You’ll also need copies of personal records such as IDs, insurance papers, and medical information. In short, you won’t miss anything important when you have an emergency kit checklist. Find out how to build a family bug-out bag here. 

What Do I Need in a Go Bag?

A go bag should have enough supplies to keep you safe and comfortable for about three days. The main things you’ll want to pack are food and water. Non-perishable snacks, bottled water, and maybe even water filters are smart choices.

Next, think about health and safety. A small first aid kit, prescription medicine, and over-the-counter pain relievers make a big difference. Don’t forget items like masks and hand wipes for hygiene. Important documents, such as IDs, insurance cards, and emergency contacts, should be stored in a waterproof pouch.

Clothing is important, too. Pack a jacket, extra socks, sturdy shoes, and personal hygiene items. Plus, include a flashlight, whistle, and a multi-tool. A phone charger, power bank, and small radio also help you stay connected. Find out more about building a go bag for emergencies here.

What Should a Girl Put In a School Emergency Kit?

A girl should put basic needs, comfort items, and a few just-in-case supplies in her school emergency kit. Pack hand sanitizer, wipes, deodorant, tissues, and feminine products like pads and tampons. You can also add a few sealable bags for discreet disposal. These essentials help you stay fresh and prepared for unexpected moments.

Next, think about health and care. A small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and antibiotic ointment can handle minor scrapes. Include over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches or cramps, plus any personal medications you may need. 

A granola bar or other small snack can help during a long school day. You can also pack a refillable water bottle. Plus, an extra pair of underwear can come in handy.

Finally, add a few extras for safety and organization. A whistle can be used to signal for help if needed. Including a card with medical information and allergies is also a good idea. 

Conclusion

Putting together an emergency kit for school doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep it simple, practical, and age-appropriate. By packing the right essentials and avoiding unnecessary items, students and teachers can handle emergencies properly. 

A well-prepared kit makes a big difference in helping kids feel safe, comfortable, and ready, no matter what comes their way. It’s a small step that brings peace of mind to both students and parents. Stay prepared, hero!