Natural disasters can strike with little to no warning, leaving communities devastated and individuals struggling to survive. Being prepared is crucial. This “How To Survive A Natural Disaster Guide” provides essential information on assembling a disaster supplies kit, maintaining it, and storing it in strategic locations to increase your chances of survival.
A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for several days is paramount when help might not be immediately available.
An emergency supply kit containing essential items like water, food, first aid, and a radio can significantly increase your chances of survival during a natural disaster.
Building Your Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
Store items in airtight plastic bags and place your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. A well-stocked basic emergency supply kit should include the following:
- Water: Aim for one gallon per person per day for several days, for both drinking and sanitation purposes.
- Food: Gather at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food items.
- Battery-powered or Hand Crank Radio: Stay informed with a reliable radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
- Flashlight: Essential for navigating in the dark.
- First Aid Kit: Be prepared to handle minor injuries.
- Extra Batteries: To power your radio and flashlight.
- Whistle: A crucial tool for signaling for help if you become trapped.
- Dust Mask: Protect yourself from contaminated air.
- Plastic Sheeting, Scissors, and Duct Tape: Useful for creating temporary shelter.
- Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, and Plastic Ties: Maintain personal sanitation.
- Wrench or Pliers: Know how to turn off utilities if necessary.
- Manual Can Opener: For accessing canned food.
- Local Maps: To navigate if electronic devices fail.
- Cell Phone with Chargers and a Backup Battery: Stay connected, but be aware that cell service might be unreliable.
Expanding Your Emergency Supplies
Based on your individual and family needs, consider adding these items to your emergency supply kit:
- Soap, Hand Sanitizer, and Disinfecting Wipes: Maintain hygiene and disinfect surfaces.
- Prescription Medications: Store an adequate supply of necessary medications.
- Non-Prescription Medications: Include pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids, and laxatives.
- Prescription Eyeglasses and Contact Lens Solution: Don’t overlook vision needs.
- Infant Formula, Bottles, Diapers, Wipes, and Diaper Rash Cream: If you have infants.
- Pet Food and Extra Water: For your pets.
- Cash or Traveler’s Checks: Electronic transactions might not be possible.
- Important Family Documents: Keep copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof container or saved electronically.
- Sleeping Bag or Warm Blanket: One for each person.
- Complete Change of Clothing: Appropriate for your climate, along with sturdy shoes.
- Fire Extinguisher: To handle small fires.
- Matches in a Waterproof Container: For starting fires if needed.
- Feminine Supplies and Personal Hygiene Items: Essential for women’s health.
- Mess Kits, Paper Cups, Plates, Paper Towels, and Plastic Utensils: For easy meal service.
- Paper and Pencil: For communication and notes.
- Books, Games, Puzzles, or Other Activities: To keep children entertained and reduce stress.
Regular maintenance of your emergency kit is crucial to ensure that all items are in good condition and ready for use when needed.
Maintaining Your Kit: Ensuring Readiness
After assembling your kit, remember to maintain it regularly:
- Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
- Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
- Replace expired items as needed.
- Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change. This includes accounting for changes in family size, dietary needs, and medical requirements.
Strategic Kit Storage Locations
Since you don’t know where you’ll be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work, and your car.
- Home: Keep this kit in a designated place that is easily accessible. Ensure all family members know the location of the kit.
- Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water, medicines, and comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
- Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car. This is especially important if you live in an area prone to severe weather or travel frequently.
Storing emergency kits in multiple locations, such as home, work, and car, ensures that you have access to essential supplies no matter where you are when a disaster strikes.
By following this “how to survive a natural disaster guide”, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Being prepared with a well-stocked and maintained emergency kit can make a significant difference in your ability to cope with the challenges of a natural disaster. Plan, prepare, and stay safe.
