More often than not, getting started with a task is more difficult than actually following through with and finishing the task. Emergency preparedness is no different. The task can seem overwhelming simply because it seems like there is so much that needs to be done to be fully prepared for an emergency situation. However, if you start small and continually work on building your emergency supply, you will soon find that it is not as difficult as it may appear.
One of the first steps you can take to build an emergency supply is to construct a 72-hour kit for each member of your family. The main purpose of a 72-hour kit is to provide you with a compact supply of essential items in case you need to quickly evacuate your home or if certain resources become unavailable for a short amount of time.
You can use backpacks to create a 72-hour kit for each family member. When it comes to choosing which items you will include in your emergency kit, start with the essentials. Survival foods and clean water will always be essential resources in any emergency. It is recommended that you have at least one gallon of clean water per person per day, in addition to adequate amounts of emergency food. If you don’t have long term food or food storage, choose food that will be easy to eat or prepare and that will provide enough nutrition.
In an emergency situation or natural disaster, there are many other resources such as gas or electricity that could become unavailable for extended periods of time. Your 72-hour kit should include items that will help deal with these and other issues that can arise in an emergency. Items such as flashlights, extra batteries, hand sanitizer, a pocketknife, and a simple first aid kit can all be useful in an emergency. Keep in mind any special needs that your family may have (such as medicine or special dietary needs) and include the appropriate supplies in your emergency kit. Include other items such as an extra pair of clothes, maps, and small entertainment objects if you have additional room.
While a 72-hour kit is very useful to have, by no means should it be the only part of your emergency preparedness planning. A 72-hour kit is the easiest way to start small, but you need to continue to build up your emergency supply after building these kits for your family. The next steps you take in building your emergency supply may differ depending on your family’s situation. Have a specific plan. You can start by purchasing a one or two-week supply of food storage and clean water for each family member, and then make additional purchases every few months or so.
The most important thing to remember in building you emergency supply is to be consistent. Starting small with a 72-hour kit or a one-week emergency food supply are good foundations to build on, but continue to contribute to your emergency storage with some regularity. Start now so you can be prepared for any emergency!
