When disaster strikes, it usually comes without warning. As you prepare for possible emergencies, it's important to have a prepared emergency kit with essential items that will help you and your family survive until help arrives. The following are ten of the most essential things to include in your emergency survival kit.
1. Water
The human body is made up of approximately 60-70% water. During an emergency, a person may lose as much as 5% of the body's total water in just one day. Replenishing those fluids is critical to survival. Water is essential to survival and can help you stay alive or prepare for evacuation. In hot weather, it can prevent heat stroke. In cold environments, it prevents hypothermia and dehydration. The water in your emergency supply kit should be bottled water, the purified and bottled form of water from natural sources, such as lakes and rivers.
2. Food
Food can be your best friend in an emergency situation. It can protect you from hunger and give you the energy to help others. The most important thing about preparing for an emergency is not to stockpile food but to have enough food in your survival kit for a week. Ideally, you should be able to provide for your family for three days, with the expectation that help will arrive within that time. This is especially important when preparing a kit for children who require more food per pound than an adult.
3. Emergency Mess Kit
The mess kit is a must-have for any emergency survival kit. It should be used for quick and easy cleanup and cleaning of wounds, as well as for disinfecting water sources. Emergency mess kits include band-aids, gauze, antiseptic creams, alcohol, and a disinfecting wipe.
4. First Aid Kit
The contents of the first aid kit should be reviewed periodically, but it is a well-stocked kit that contains a variety of items to treat wounds, burns, bee stings, and bites. The items in the first aid kit should be familiar to the victim. The kit should include wrap, adhesive tapes, gauze pads, adhesive bandages, cotton balls and swabs, hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment, and antibiotic pills or liquids. In addition to these items, you should keep other medications you regularly take in your first aid kit.
5. Blanket
A blanket is one necessity that you can't be without in an emergency situation. It's important to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather, especially if you have to travel a long distance, and a blanket is the most efficient way to do it. A blanket can be used as a cover to protect you from the elements and keep you warm. Blankets can also provide insulation.
6. Flashlight
Without a flashlight, you'll be hard-pressed to see in the dark. A flashlight is an important item to include in your emergency kit. As a last resort, it can be used to signal others after the power is out.
7. Radio/Phone Book
A radio or phone book is essential in any evacuation scenario. They can help keep you updated on the status of your family and provide contact information for emergency services in your area.
8. Matches/Lighter
A small box of matches or a lighter is relatively easy to carry when evacuating. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to store in any kit. You can also use a lighter to start fires in an emergency. The ideal thing to keep in your kit is waterproof matches or a watertight lighter. Either one should be stored in a plastic container and include several dozen extra matches or lighters.
9. Cooking Utensils
Every kitchen needs cooking utensils, which should be included in your kit. Even if you're evacuating to another part of the country, you should take cooking utensils and some food with you. A box of assorted cooking utensils is a necessity.
10. Prescriptions
Include all your usual prescription medications in your emergency kit. In the event of an evacuation or emergency situation, you may be without power for several days and access to your medicine. Your prescription should be kept with you at all times, even when you are traveling. Carry a copy of your medication list with you or keep a second set of prescription bottles in the car.
Conclusion
A well-stocked emergency kit should be at the ready in case of a flood, hurricane, or another natural disaster. Keep your emergency supplies in the trunk of your vehicle or a locker at work for quick access. Remember that your emergency kit is only a temporary solution until you can get to a safer location. As the situation changes and new safety concerns become known, make sure you update your emergency kit accordingly.
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