You have been told that you must evacuate your home in five minutes. What do you take? The one well planned item in your house - your disaster kit.
Surviving
A Disaster
In the event of a
disaster you should have an emergency kit prepared in your home to ensure your
family can literally weather the storm. Many people think that help will come
immediately and that they don’t need to do any advance preparation. This is a
very dangerous way to think. With a little time and planning your family can be
well prepared in the event of any emergency they may face.
Absolute
Essentials For A Disaster Kit
Though you can put
anything you like in your disaster kit there are four essential types of items
that must be included. They are: water, food, first aid supplies and bedding. A
change of clothing for every member of the family is also important.
Imagine surviving
for days with no water, no electricity, no waste management, no telephone
services and no access to the basic essentials of life such as food and water.
It would be extremely difficult and stressful. When disaster strikes and
seconds count you cannot be afforded the luxury of searching through your home to
see what your family will need. You have to be prepared prior to the event.
Your disaster
supply kit should contain enough provisions for at least three to five days. If
you have room consider stockpiling enough supplies for two weeks. It may seem
like a lot but it’s better to have something and not need it than to need
something and not have it.
If you work
outside the home you should also have a disaster kit in your car and at work.
It doesn’t have to be as large as the one at your home but it should contain
the above-mentioned items. Disasters can happen during any season so make sure
your kit has appropriate clothing for the season. Another thing to keep in mind
is that kids grow and food can spoil. Make sure your kit is kept up to date and
fresh. Review with your family where the kit is stored and who is responsible
for taking what if you have to leave the house quickly. This is a great way to
review with your family all escape routes from your home and where to meet if
separation occurs.