In a world where unforeseen events like cyclones, heavy rains, or hailstorms are disrupting the lives of people, it is essential to have an emergency preparedness kit. Why? Natural disasters and severe weather are becoming more common due to their occurrence. During a time when disaster does knock on your door, it can take time for rescue workers to reach you. Thus, it is necessary to have a kit that can keep you fed and safe and help you navigate the situation well.
Not sure how to create an emergency kit? This blog can help, as it is the perfect roadmap to help you prepare for any emergency.
Essential emergency kit: How to create the perfect preparedness kit
Assess the risks
To create an emergency kit, the first step is to know your region and its risks. For instance, the kit will be different if you live in a region prone to cyclones. Then, assess the needs of your family. How many members do you have, and what are their specific needs—medicines, meals, and more? Do not forget to include pets when considering making an emergency preparedness kit.
Non-perishable food and water
The first thing to have in your emergency preparedness kit is non-perishable food and water. During a disaster, food and clean drinking water are always scarce. They are essential, and surviving without them becomes challenging. Here are a few tips:
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- Buy emergency survival food kits focusing on nutrients. You also want food that does not require too much electricity or gas because you cannot be sure if these will be available to you or not. It should also be non-perishable.
- Ensure your food is rich in protein, carbs, and healthy fats. It should focus on nutrients to help keep your immunity up.
- The kit should be bought considering the nutrient deficiencies and food choices of people in your home. For instance, if someone is gluten-intolerant, have a kit to help them survive.
- Buy and store water for a week. At least three gallons of water per person should be available in your pantry.
Have masks
Masks are an essential part of any emergency kit. Why? Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and fires can bring a lot of dust and smoke. These are bad for everyone, let alone for someone who has asthma or other lung-related issues. Buying from a company selling quality masks like the N95 mask can help you stay safe.
Flashlights and extra batteries
Power cuts are familiar with all-natural disasters. Sometimes, they can last for days. Thus, it would help if you had running flashlights with you. Also, have spare batteries to put in if the flashlights go out. They are better than candles during a disaster as they do not pose fire risks.
A first-aid kit
Every home should have one, regardless of whether they live in a natural disaster-prone area. When preparing a kit for emergencies, you should include everything you require. You can buy one from top brands selling first-aid kits, including thermometers. Moreover, to complete the kit, ensure it has sufficient medications for the family member who takes one and cannot survive without one.
Bleach
Add chlorine beach to your emergency preparedness roadmap. One drop can kill viruses or bacteria and help you stay safe. After heavy rainfall or floods, it can help to clean bird baths or outdoor water without harming the birds. It is helpful to ensure you do not get infected during an emergency, which can lead to more problems for you.
Sleeping bags and blankets
Some disasters can disrupt your home and leave you homeless. Or you may have to leave your locality and go to a rescue center. In such cases, having an emergency supply of sleeping bags can help your family sleep properly. Also, have extra warm blankets to survive the cold.
Waterproof e-reader
Yes, it comes in handy when there is no internet or electricity. You can download recipes, survival guides, how-to manuals, and more. All of these can help you be better prepared to survive an emergency. Also, it can help you fend off boredom when you have to stay in one place without internet or electricity for a long time.
Personal hygiene products
Refrain from hoarding toilet paper; ensure you have enough personal hygiene products, especially if you have females in your home. Hygiene is essential. Otherwise, you can get sicker due to a lack of it.
Conclusion
There are multiple types of emergencies: natural, economic, and social. You have to be prepared for everything, especially if you live in a city or country that is prone to natural disasters or socio-political unrest. Use the above tips as a roadmap and prepare for any emergency that may come your way.
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