Winter is no longer approaching, it’s defiantly here and if your like most of us, odds are you haven’t a clue about how you and your family would react in a crises under normal circumstances let alone when isn’t below freezing. Having a plan of action could be the very thing that keeps your family safe in the event of a catastrophe no matter what the weather is doing outside.
The United States endures hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, fires, earthquakes, riots, terrorist attacks, and many other emergencies. There isn’t any one place that’s completely protected from an act of God, adversity, affliction, or just plain bad luck. If experience has taught us anything over the last one hundred years, it’s that life as we know it can permanently change in a split second without so much as a moments notice.
Being ready for a disaster does take time, but once you have a plan of action it’ll all be worth the effort. Just thinking about putting together an emergency kit can make one feel as if spinning in cyclone. Your mind will play tricks trying to confuse what’s important and what isn’t necessary. But don’t put off this most important task. Start with the bare necessities.
The CDC encourages everyone to take a moment and join their effort to educate, organize, and put into action some standard of preparedness.
WATER AND OTHER FLUIDS
Humans and animals cannot live without water. Store enough for each person in the family for at least three days. One gallon per person per day. And don’t forget your pets. Keep water and other fluids in a cool dark area for storage and replace every six months. If you’re unsure about if water is safe to drink, boil it.
Dehydration can cause short-term memory issues, lack of focus, and exhaustion. Being dehydrated also causes joint pain when the fluid is no longer cushioning and lubricating. Fluids also flush out toxins that can lead to other health complications in your major organs.
Hydration regulates body temperature and aids in the digestive process to properly distribute vital nutrients. There are benefits to drinking fluids of any kind once your thirsty, with the exception of alcohol.
WebMD suggest, if your dehydrated stay away from alcoholic beverages as this triggers the kidney’s to flush the good and the bad out of your body. In an emergency, you’re going to need to stay as healthy and mentally sharp as possible.
FOOD
We can live longer without food, but let’s not push it. It’s best to have non-perishable items like canned and dehydrated food. These have a shelf life of about two years. Store food in a dark cool area to prevent spoilage and don’t forget the manual can opener. Be sure to date the food with a sharpie and remember to replace items that are getting old.
Use the fluid in canned foods for flavor and hydration as most are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Use it to mix foods such as potato flakes and oatmeal or to boil noodles.
MEDICATIONS
This is more difficult if a loved one takes prescription meds. However, some prescribe medications have mild over the counter brands. Medicine such as Zantac and Clariton are good examples. For more serious health conditions, seek the advice of your physician.
FIRST AID
Hand sanitizer, isopropyl alcohol, gauze, tape, bandages, surgical gloves, tweezers, CPR mouth barrier, antibiotic ointment, Benadryl, pain reliever, scissors, and paper towels. The American Red Cross website many first aid kits available for sale.
BLANKETS AND CLOTHING
You never know if shelter will be available, or what season it’ll be when a disaster happens. Sleeping bags are very handy and they are heavy and durable. Appropriate clothing and blankets should be stored in a tote or a box clearly labeled. Include coats, hats, and gloves for winter and shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear for summertime.
MATCHES/LIGHTERS
Add plenty of candles and firewood and/or propane for cooking, heat, and visibly. NOTE: Never use propane devices inside!
BATTERY OPERATED RADIO AND PHONE
If possible, be informed. Search local channels for updates on what’s happening. Listen for where the medical facilities are located, times and places where food and water will be delivered, and rescue crews whereabouts.
FLASHLIGHTS AND EXTRA BATTERIES
Plan for the power to be out for at last three days. Use batteries sparingly. Once gone, there gone.
TOILETRIES
Soap, hand lotion/vaseline, hair brush, hair ties and barrett’s, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, wipes, wash cloths, and towels. Can you survive without these items? Well yes. But why would you want to? After all, this is about being ready.
For some, this kit will be more like a storage unit. Others, just a corner in the basement or garage. It all depends on the level of preparedness and the amount of people you’ll need to be ready for.
Shell de Toni 