Keeping an emergency kit on hand is essential because it helps you and your loved ones to handle unforeseen emergencies that may come at any time. Natural disasters, blackouts, and other crises can interfere with day-to-day activities and the availability of necessities. Having an emergency pack guarantees that you have the materials and tools you need to survive on your own until assistance arrives or things get back to normal. Being ready for emergencies can decrease stress and improve your ability to react to the present emergency. It can help you save money in the long-run and be have items on hand that may be out of stock when an emergency strikes. For this reason, you should take the time to put together an emergency kit that suits your needs.
Figure Out Your Needs
Think about the types of emergencies that are common in your area like power outages, hurricanes, or tornadoes, as a few examples. Take into account how many people are in your family, including your pets, and if anyone has any special medical conditions.
Plan a Budget
Set aside a certain amount of money each week or month so you can pick up items for your kit as the money is put aside or save up to get all the items at once
Some Necessary Items for Your Kit
Water and Food:
Calculate how much water each person and pet needs (1 gallon is a good rule of thumb per person per day) and stocking non-perishable food items like canned goods and energy bars as well as pet food that will last you at least a couple of days.
First Aid Kit:
Create a basic first aid kit that includes at least basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, a pair of scissors, tweezers, medications, and a first aid manual. Johnson and Johnson also makes a first aid kit that is currently under $20 on Amazon right now that comes with 160 pieces for supplies if you don't want to hunt down all the individual components.
Trash Bags:
Trash bags are a really wise thing to have to help with trash and when toilets cannot be used. In that case you can put the trash bag over a larger container and add kitty litter or baking soda to help with smell.
Flashlights and Batteries:
Get a handful of flashlights (you could buy a multi-pack on Amazon and stock up on batteries that can go in each flashlight. You can also get a lantern that runs on batteries or use tea lights in a safe place on a metal cookie sheet to reduce the risk of fire. Make sure you have a lighter or plenty of matches on hand. If you are in a bind, some people take a large gallon of water and tie a light around the water to add more light to your room.
Emergency Blankets and Clothing:
Depending on the weather you may want to have warm blankets or sleeping bags, and extra clothing to keep you warm. A fireplace could help too if you have one and the supplies to go with it (i.e. firewood and something to light the firewood and keep it going).
Personal Hygiene Items:
Make sure to have an extra toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, and feminine hygiene products.
Important Documents:
If the emergency gets worse, there is a chance you may need to leave your home. In addition to having the originals in a safe water-proof and fireproof place, make copies of IDs, insurance policies, and contact information for just in case.
Find Budget-Friendly Supplies:
When you are shopping for affordable emergency kit supplies seek out sales, discounts, and bulk purchases to bring the cost down. Using coupons and online deals for essential items can also help.
Store Your Emergency Kit
Find a good storage container (think plastic bins, a backpack, or waterproof containers). Put the kit in a secure location that you will still easily be able to access and regularly check and update the kit as needed (check for expiration dates on food and meds and rotate items out).
Add Personalized Items to the Kit
When you include comfort items like your favorite snacks and games, it can help things not feel quite as bad.
Let Your Household Know About the Kit and Emergency Plans
You should let your family know what is in the kit and where you are putting it in case of an emergency. Hold practice drills and talk about what you would do if there was an actual emergency so you are ready.
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