Disaster can strike at any moment.
Be ready.
Are you prepared?
Catastrophic floods, groundbreaking earthquakes, raging wildfires, and savage hurricanes. After events such as these, you may need to survive on your own for several days. A disaster readiness kit is essential for ensuring your safety and well-being during emergencies. Here are some key reasons why having a disaster readiness kit is important:
Immediate Access to Essentials: A well-prepared kit ensures you have immediate access to essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, medications, and first aid supplies, which may be crucial if normal supply lines are disrupted.
Emergency Communication: Kits often include items like a flashlight, batteries, and a radio, which are essential for staying informed about the situation and receiving emergency alerts.
Personal Safety: Items such as a multi-tool, whistle, and blankets can help protect you and your family in case you need to evacuate or shelter in place.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a kit ready can provide peace of mind, reducing stress and allowing you to focus on keeping yourself and your loved ones safe during a crisis.
Adaptability to Different Disasters: Kits can be customized to address specific regional risks, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires, ensuring you are prepared for the most likely emergencies in your area.
Support for Others: In some cases, your kit may include items like extra clothing, hygiene supplies, or pet supplies, allowing you to assist others in need during a disaster.
The Disaster Kit
The old saying states: “It’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.” Building this simple kit can be cheap, quick, and customizable to your standards. Download this detailed checklist, print it, and store it with your supplies for inventory reference.
Checklist: Basics
Water (one gallon per person per day for several days)
Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Flashlight/lantern
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle
Dust masks
Plastic sheeting, scissors, and duct tape
Toilet paper, wipes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
Small and large crescent wrenches
Manual can opener
Local maps
Phone chargers and solar battery packs