If there’s one thing we’ve learned recently, it’s that we simply can’t predict what life will throw at us. pandemic, or a terrifying fungal outbreak that turns us all into vicious zombie-like creatures.ok maybe it’s the last one not a real threatbut you can’t deny it Last of Us It didn’t make me think about what we would do if a real emergency, man-made or natural, hit our doorstep. We’re here to put together a solid selection of emergency preparedness essentials so you can find your own survival kit or go bag.
Why do you need a survival kit?
Hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, fires, blizzards, power outages—the seemingly endless number of dangers that keep us in our homes for long periods of time or quickly displace us. That said, you don’t have to be doomsday ready with a well-stocked bunker to keep yourself safe in case of an emergency. Whether you want to keep the basics stash or not, there are plenty of pre-made survival gear kits to suit all kinds of needs. your car essentialsstock up on supplies for lounging at home or have a backpack ready to go to the nearest shelter.
Recommended camping equipment for camping beginners
What Should Your Survival Kit Include?
To get some insight on what to include in a top-notch survival kit, we spoke to a range of emergency preparedness experts. midland radio(opens in new tab), a leader in two-way communications and extreme weather/emergency warning technology. Michael Collins, PE, Beverly, Massachusetts Commissioner of Public Services and Engineering, provides resources to members of the American Public Works Association to prepare, respond, and recover from hazards He is a member of the APWA Emergency Management Board .and Melanie Papworth(opens in new tab)planner, founder Awesome plan(opens in new tab)a website that shares practical, approachable, and down-to-earth preparation resources for busy families every day.
food and water
All of our experts agreed that clean water and sanitation for non-perishable food and drinking should be at the top of the list. !) You need at least 3 days of food and water per person, but if you live in a hurricane zone increase that to up to 7 days, and 14 days if you live in an earthquake zone.
Collins recommends canned foods, protein bars, and shelf-stable MREs (ready-to-eat meals), but Papworth points out that you’ll need both stored water and food. water filtration Clean water can be produced from any water source on demand.she loves her family Barkey(opens in new tab)but portable life straw(opens in new tab)Depending on your water source, a bottle of filtered water or even an iodine tablet will suffice.
Portable generator ideal for camping, power outages, etc.
Collins also recommends including one serving packet of electrolyte powders in your survival kit, especially if you may be dealing with extreme heat.
Communications, Navigation, Lights
It’s important to have a hand crank radio, flashlight and charger in your kit so you don’t have to rely on electricity or batteries.Jones is partial to the Midlands ER310 emergency crank radio(opens in new tab) — Equipped with a NOAA Weather Radio, a built-in LED flashlight and whistle, and the ability to charge USB-compatible devices — but a similar crank radio will suffice.
Collins recommends a solar-powered phone charger and at least a 10,000 mAh battery pack to keep the device charged. You may also need a compass, map of the area, waterproof matches or lighter, and a small mirror, flare, or glow stick to call for help.
first aid
To help treat yourself and your family in an emergency, Jones recommends a first aid kit with at least bandages, antibiotic ointment packets, antiseptic wipe packets, non-latex gloves, gauze pads, and a thermometer.
Papworth also points out that you’ll want to stash over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and pain, as well as prescriptions and medical equipment you’ll need to survive.
Hygiene
At the very least, pack a damp towel, a garbage bag, and a plastic tie for personal hygiene into your kit, says Jones. Ticks, but a change of clothes is also high on the list.
“Can you imagine wearing the same underwear for three days?”
Face masks also help keep dust and debris at bay. Hand sanitizer is also always in the clutch.
shelter and warmth
Collins advises those living in cold climates to pack winter gear, hats, and space blankets into their survival kits. If evacuation is expected, prepare a sleeping bag suitable for the weather and an emergency tent if necessary.
“Be sure to also pack some garbage bags and polyethylene sheets,” says Collins. “They keep warm, collect rain, and provide an alternative way to protect you from rain and sun.”
Jones recommends using vinyl sheets and duct tape. The latter can be used to repair gear, fix leaks, and even stabilize broken limbs in extreme emergencies. The possibilities are truly endless.
survival tools
Besides all-purpose, all-purpose duct tape, you should have a few other versatile tools in your survival kit. For example, a multi-tool that acts as a bottle opener or a survival knife to help you cut open ropes or open cans. Collins also recommends paracord bracelets for a variety of uses, from securing gear to securing shelter. You can even go fishing with this survival bracelet.
ID and important documents
You must always carry your driver’s license, passport, or other form of identification. Just in case the worst happens, Papworth recommends keeping the originals of all important documents in a fireproof and waterproof box before you evacuate. Cash, especially small bills, is also useful.
entertainment
Last but not least, as I remembered with Ellie comics and pleasantly persistent pun book of Truw — It’s important, especially for children, to bring in a little entertainment to keep their minds up.
“Think small, light and cheap,” says Papworth. “Dice and Yahtzee Scorecards, Playing Cards, Go Fish, UNO, Coloring Books and Crayons, Bouncing Balls, Books and More”
