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24 May 2015

How A Disaster Survival Kit Can Help

By Tammie Caldwell


Emergencies can happen at any time. Natural disasters are known to cause severe damage, destruction and even death around the world. Typically there are limited resources accessible in these cases, which is why a disaster survival kit can come in handy. These are built to include the essentials necessary for surviving in emergency situations.

Families and individuals need to prepare these ahead of time. The need for these can strike at any moment. If there is an emergency evacuation, people must be able to readily grab the essentials. Rarely is there time to search or shop for supplies. After these situations, especially when there are natural disasters, people will have to survive on their own. They will supply all the food, water and necessities they need. It is suggested that people pack enough for at least three days work, although they may have to survive on their own for longer.

Relief workers and local officials may strive to be on the scene immediately, but it could be impossible for them to reach everyone quickly. Help may not arrive until hours or days later. Keep this in mind when building a kit. Furthermore, services like sewage, water, gas and electricity are likely to be unavailable in these situations. The supply kit should have enough to help with managing under these conditions.

Survival kits must be maintained after they are built. They should be safe to use when they are needed and equipped with everything that is needed. Canned food should be stored in a dry and cool place. Boxed food should be stored in metal or plastic containers that are sealed to extend shelf life and keep pests out. Foods that are packed should not go bad and should be replaced if they do.

Stored food and water supplies should be changed out twice a year. Be sure to note the date on containers so that this can be done effectively. It is recommended that people consider their kit essentials every year. They should be updated as the needs change. Store items in plastic bags that are airtight and always put the kit in containers that are easy to carry, such as trashcans or backpacks.

It is best if people keep one at their place of employment, in the vehicle and at home. This is because it can be difficult to determine where a person may be when these disasters hit and the kits are needed. Ones at home should have water, food and supplies that will last for at least three days. These should go in designated places and be easy to access, especially during emergency evacuations.

Work kits should provide enough for surviving at least 24 hours. These can be stocked with food, water, medications and other necessities. It is important people have comfortable shoes in case they must travel distances. This, too, should be in a bag or container that is easy to grab and go. Vehicle kits might include items like shovel, warm clothes, extra batteries, water, food, first aid kit, flashlights, radio, blankets or sleeping bags, and an ice scraper.

Packages are expected to differ based on needs of individuals or families. Certain manufacturers and retailers sell starter packs with the basics. However, people should strive to build or customize their own.




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