In uncertain times, the Boy Scouts motto is still sound advice, “Always be prepared.” If you’re going to be stuck at home for a while, here’s what to have on hand.

Water: You need at least a three-day supply; one gallon per person per day (this includes water for drinking, cooking and sanitation), stored in plastic bottles or other containers.

Food: The key here is convenience and minimal preparation. Stock three days’ worth of high-energy foods that require little or no cooking: canned soups, meats, fruits, vegetables, juice, and milk; peanut butter and jelly; granola bars and cookies; and instant noddles.

Medicine: Ask your doctor for an extra one-week supply of all prescriptions.

Flashlight: Have several flashlights available for power outages.

Battery-operated radio: Though a basic radio will do, get one that gives AM/FM stations and National Weather Service broadcasts etc.

Other important supplies: A manual can opener, a first aid kit, extra cash, a shovel, a fire extinguisher, blankets or sleeping bags, diapers for babies, sturdy boots for each person in your family, a cell phone and change or phone cards for pay phones.

Source: Good Housekeeping Magazine; February 2002