When natural disasters hit, there’s always the chance that people will be on their own until help arrives. That might require having enough emergency supplies on hand to make it several days, at least. No matter where they live, people who haven’t taken the time to create basic disaster survival kits can learn what to prioritize below.
Drinking Water
When most people think about disaster preparedness, they consider things like whether there’s a flashlight on hand and how they’ll keep a cell phone charged. The most important thing, though, is to make sure the basics are covered. It takes at least one gallon of water per person per day to stay hydrated and ensure proper sanitation, and purchasing a Big Berkey Water Filter is the most space-efficient means of providing drinking water in an emergency.
Non-Perishable Food
Keep at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food in the disaster preparedness kit. Try to include a diverse array of options and be sure to accommodate residents’ dietary needs. Focus on healthy, high-calorie, and nutrient-dense foods.
First Aid Kit
Some people purchase pre-made first aid kits, while others prefer to create them out of basic supplies. Either way, the kit should include:
- Absorbent dressings
- Bandages
- Cloth tape
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic wipes
- Aspirin
- A cold compress
- A breathing barrier
- Emergency blankets
- Non-latex gloves
- Gauze
- A thermometer
- Tweezers
- A first-aid guide
The kit may also need to contain medications and other types of emergency gear. Be sure to take residents’ unique medical needs into account.
Personal Sanitation Supplies
Staying clean and keeping things sanitary is important in an emergency. Include moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, plus garbage bags and plastic ties for disposing of biohazardous waste safely. It’s also important to include feminine hygiene products, if applicable.
Backup Batteries
The ability to keep a cell phone charged can make a big difference in an emergency situation. It could even allow someone who is trapped to call for help and be rescued as soon as first responders arrive instead of being stuck waiting for days for someone to happen upon the site. That’s why it’s a good idea to include backup batteries and a phone charger in the emergency kit.
Ways to Stay Warm
Even in relatively warm climates, it’s still wise to keep a sleeping bag for each family member in the emergency kit. If there’s no room for a full-sized sleeping bag, an emergency blanket can suffice in a pinch. Include matches in a waterproof container in case the stove can be accessed and needs to be lit or there’s a reason to start a fire.
Be Prepared and Stay Calm
The most important thing to remember in an emergency situation is to stay calm. Being prepared for the worst can make it much easier to survive a natural disaster without compromising anyone’s safety. Take the time to put together a basic survival kit plus a plan for what to do should the worst occur that everyone can reference.
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