Trust it when you read that preparing an emergency kit is more essential than you think. Remember that you cannot predict when a disaster will occur, or can you? You, therefore, need to be prepared ahead to make sure you and your family stay safe from whatever Mother Nature sends your way. That should emphasize the importance of an emergency kit.

Steps Before Preparing An Emergency Kit

To build a capable and useful emergency kit, you must first know the kind of disaster you’re preparing for. You then have to decide if your kit will be tailored to an event that’s likely to happen or will cater for all possible functions, which may mean a larger, more encompassing box. Yes, I agree this can be quite an extensive process.

Luckily, this blog provides you with a concise and remarkably helpful guide for preparing an emergency kit. Here we go.

Identify Possible Risks

Everyone agrees that disasters usually have similar consequences, but knowing the exact thing to prepare for gives you a lot of leverage. If you can identify the enemy early enough, then you can conquer him. This requires knowing the risks your locale is prone to. Some regions often experience water disasters, such as flooding, while some may be storms, for example, tornadoes and hurricanes. 

Think about it, how would it be if an emergency kit against tornadoes was all you got when the riverbanks break and flood? Terrible scenario, I’m sure you concur.

These disasters can be artificial, as well. It could be a power outage or infection of some sort. Just conduct adequate research to know what your region has often gone through over the years.

Create A Plan

This is not subjective. It is a universal law. Whatever it is, wherever you live, you should have a clear plan for emergencies. This will help you and your family to do the appropriate things during unexpected disasters instead of going into panic overdrive. A plan shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes. We understand that there are various emergencies, and you, therefore, can’t perfectly plan. 

However, you can agree on simple decisions, such as how you all can communicate during a disaster, a place to meet, something to do, or whatever. The essence of an emergency plan is to enable you and your family to act in unison during emergencies. This understanding and cohesion will give you leverage and hope.

Lest I forget, your emergency plan should have exit points. These refer to points where you can escape from your apartment in case of any disaster. A contingency plan is highly advisable, as well. Having one will leave you with options during emergencies.

Develop A Neighborhood Safety Plan

Working with folks in your neighborhood is essential to surviving emergencies. If you’re well prepared, you’d be an excellent help to others during such times. Keep in mind that it can go both ways as well. There are times your plan may fall short, and you would require extra assistance to survive. Having a neighborhood safety plan is an excellent strategy to keep everyone safe during disasters. A smart method to do this is by forming “block buddies,” which charges the members of each block to check on each other during an emergency. Each block usually has a meeting point, a unique way of communicating, and whatever.

If you already have an emergency scheme, make sure you update year after year. Leaving your emergency plan obsolete may hamper survival during emergencies. Every year review your policy, practice agreed evacuation techniques, update emergency contacts, change food, water and provisions, and make sure crucial emergency equipment is in good shape; examples include fire extinguishers.

Building An Adequate Emergency Kit

Having followed through on the steps highlighted above, building your emergency kit comes next. An emergency kit is highly necessary because you may have to evacuate your home in a split second. The lack of a good kit then may leave you in discomfort and danger.

What’s more, after a disaster, you may have to survive on your own for some time before help arrives. This necessitates that your water, foods, provisions, and necessary supplies can last for at least 72 hours. Keep in mind that your medications are essential as well. 

True, relief workers will be on the scene soon, but it may be difficult for them to reach everyone on time. Should you be in that case, it would be beneficial if you can cater for yourself. As we can agree, preparing an emergency kit ahead is necessary. And not just any kit, but a well prepared one.

Basic Supplies In Your Disaster Kit

Basic supplies are the items you must have in your kit when an emergency breaks in. I believe you’re already guessing what these items are. They include:

• Water: we really can’t overemphasize this. Your kit must contain enough water for three days for each person at a measurement of 1 gallon per day. For example, a family of 3 should have at least 9 gallons of water in their disaster kit.
• Food: your kit should carry non-perishable foods that will last for at least 3 – 4 days.
• First-aid kit: important, just as the two above, for survival. Remember that your first-aid box must contain medications for every member of the family. Specific drugs must be available in your kit.
• Specific tools, such as a flashlight with removable batteries, a radio that runs on batteries, pliers and wrench, knife, whistle, and cell phone, preferably with its charger.

Additional Supplies In Your Kit

Sometimes, the disaster may linger for more extended periods, or you may simply have some extra needs. The supplies below will help:

• Additional clothing if you’re in cold regions.
• Food and water for your pet.
• Cash or traveler’s check.
• Fire extinguisher.
• Sleeping bag.
• Crucial documents.
• Books and toys to keep children busy.
• Personal hygiene items, particularly for women.
• Firearms to protect your family from thieves or looters. 

Final Lines On Preparing An Emergency Kit

Preparing an emergency kit is simple and straightforward, and is even simpler with this helpful guide. You should, therefore, have no difficulty in owning an excellent emergency kit. Keep in mind that you and your family’s safety may depend entirely on this.