Frequently asked questions
Choosing a kit, ordering, and looking after it once it arrives.
Choosing a kit
What should be in a 72-hour emergency kit in Canada?
The Government of Canada's basic list is water, food that won't spoil, a manual can opener, a wind-up or battery flashlight and radio, a first aid kit, extra keys, cash, a copy of your emergency plan, and special items such as prescription medication, infant formula and pet supplies.
How long should an emergency kit last?
Government of Canada guidance is to be able to look after yourself for at least 72 hours. The American Red Cross suggests three days of supplies for evacuation and two weeks at home. No government body we have found recommends 30 days or more; that is a personal choice.
Is it cheaper to build my own emergency kit?
Often, yes, if you already own some of the items and have the time to source the rest. Our printable checklist is free for exactly that reason. A pre-built kit saves the sourcing, checks that the pieces work together, and gives you one refresh date for everything.
Where should I keep my emergency kit?
Somewhere you can reach in the dark and on the way out: a front hall closet is ideal. Keep heavy home supplies such as water on a ground floor or basement, away from heat. Avoid garages and attics for food, which shortens shelf life.
Orders & shipping
Where do you ship?
Anywhere in Canada with a street address. Orders over $150 ship free; below that, shipping is a flat $14.95. Power stations ship separately by ground and cannot go to PO boxes or fly-in communities.
How do I pay?
Checkout is handled by Square on its secure hosted page. We never see or store your card number. Prices are in Canadian dollars and GST or HST is added based on the province you ship to.
What is your return policy?
Unopened items can be returned within 30 days of delivery for a refund of the purchase price. Food, water and respirators cannot be returned once opened, for safety reasons. If something arrives damaged or incomplete, contact us and we will put it right.
How does the bundle discount work?
When your cart contains any personal, family or home kit, every add-on pack and knowledge product in the same order is 10% off automatically.
Using and keeping your kit
How often should I check my kit?
Once a year, as federal guidance suggests. Replace anything used, check the refresh-by date printed inside the lid, recharge power banks every six months and replace stored tap water yearly.
Why don't your kits include medication, lighters or fuel?
Medications are regulated products that expire quickly and that only you can choose. Lighters, matches and fuel are dangerous goods that cannot ship in a standard parcel. Each kit has labelled space for them.
Are your kits approved by the government or the Red Cross?
No, and no retailer's kits are. We build to the published Government of Canada kit list and cite the public health guidance we rely on, but ICEKIT is an independent company with no government or Red Cross affiliation.
Still stuck? Send us a message or try the kit finder.