Disaster preparation is key to surviving on your own after an emergency. It is well worth setting aside a weekend to put together a plan and an emergency survival kit for your family. The bare minimum needed would be at least 3 days worth of food, water, clothing, shelter and other supplies. Be prepared to be on your own for a few days, because relief may not come immediately. If you are lucky help may come within a few hours, but don't count on that. Utility services, such as electricity, gas and water may be unavailable for hours, days or a week or more.
To assure your family's safety after a disaster, here is an emergency preparedness guide to follow when putting together your emergency supply kit:
You will need enough water for everyone in your family, the recommended amount is one gallon of water per person a day for at least three days. Store in 2 liter soda bottles, because they are easily carried and convenient to store. Water for bathing and sanitation is less important when it comes to survival, so use baby wipes and use disposable utensils, plates, paper cups, paper towels, toilet paper, personal hygiene items, etc. Include a few small and large garbage bags to collect all the used disposable items. A gallon of unscented bleach to make safe drinking water. Just add 15-20 drops of bleach for each gallon of water.
As with water, you will need at least a three day supply of food for the entire family. Don't forget your pets' food! Non-perishable food such as canned meats, fruit, vegetables are good if you are able to stay in the home, but don't forget a can opener. A better alternative would be dehydrated food or freeze dried meals that are in small, lightweight packages. A long term supply of these can be stored or transported very easily. Dried fruit, energy bars and nuts should also be part of your food for emergency kit.
A basic first aid kit which includes prescription medication your family members are currently taking, pain relievers and anti-nausea medicine. A basic first aid manual is a must, because you may not be able to seek medical attention right away and might be able to aid an injured person immediately.
A basic tool kit is also recommend when putting a disaster preparation plan together. It should include pliers, wrench, hammer, nails, duct tape, and matches in a water tight plastic container. A large roll of thick plastic can be useful to temporarily repair a damaged structure, for shelter or to sleep on. Pack a complete set of clothing for everyone, including a warm jacket and blankets or sleeping bags. A tent that accommodates your whole family is also a good idea in the event your house is uninhabitable.In a waterproof plastic container, put a copy of all your family's important documents, like insurance policies, personal identification and some cash.
Each member of your family should have a flashlight. To stay informed in the crisis, having a hand crank or battery radio is essential. A battery lantern is also a good idea. Be sure to have a large supply of new batteries for the flashlights and radio. Communication after a disaster can be challenging, so invest in a solar charger for your cell phone.
No one ever thinks that they are going to be the victim of a natural disaster or emergency situation, but why risk your family's safety? Take a weekend to put a plan in place, your peace of mind is worth it!
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