You should always be prepared for an unexpected emergency, such as a power outage or a big snowstorm. When disaster strikes, you don’t want to be stranded without thebasic necessities to get you through a few days until utilities are restored or help can get to you. Here are a few of the items you should consider having on hand.
Potable Water
Bottled water tops the list because it is essential for survival and taking care of daily routines. Everyone needs water to stay hydrated, take prescription medications, and for basic hygiene, such as brushing your teeth. It is recommended that you have a 3 day supply of drinkable or potable water. This is roughly one gallon per person per day.
Non-Perishable Food
It is a good idea to keep canned goods and packaged snacks on hand for emergencies. If the power is interrupted, refrigerated foods are likely to perish quickly. Canned soups, vegetables, fruits, and proteins will be welcomed if your fresh food spoils. Crackers, pretzels, chips, and cookies can help to calm down a frightened or cranky child.
Be sure you keep a manual can opener with your stash. And, be sure to check expiration dates routinely.
Battery Operated Light Sources
Being in the dark for an extended period of time can be hazardous, especially when you are looking for food and water. Keep either flashlights or LED lanterns around the house to help you remain safe. And of course, make sure you have plenty of batteries.
Prescription Medications
You never know how long you might be stranded, so be sure to have a supply of essential and life-saving prescription medications. Renew your prescriptions at your drugstore a few days before they are due to renew so you are never without. You may also want to visit your local pharmacy to get often used over-the- counter medications that could be hard to come by during a local disaster.
First-aid Kit
While you are renewing your prescriptions at the drugstore, you can easily put together a basic first-aid kit. Items you can include are disposable gloves, sterile wipes, bandages, antibiotic ointment, anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers, and tweezers.
Solar or Battery Powered Charger
It is very important to be able to reach out for help, communicate with family and friends, and get updates from local authorities. The best way to do this is via your cell phone. But it has to be charged. While you may be able to charge your phone in your car, this isn’t always an option in times of crisis. A solar or battery powered charger will come in handy.
Our local governments and news providers do a pretty good job at alerting us when disaster is imminent. However, it is impossible to predict just how intense the emergency will be and or for how long it will last. Prepare yourself by putting in place the 6 tips mentioned here.
