We all know that disaster could potentially strike at any minute. Especially with the high number of floods, droughts, wild fires, hurricanes and every other type of environmental tragedy that seems to be occurring at an alarming rate.
Disasters are unpleasant to think about, so most of us don’t. We gamble that we will be one of the lucky ones who never has to face Mother Nature eye to eye and learn the wrath of her fury. However, all too often, our luck runs out.
It’s normal to feel a sense of fear when you think about what would happen if your day to day life was disrupted by forces beyond your control. But, one sure way to calm that feeling and put it to rest is to prepare yourself.
That way you know that if your number is called, so to speak, you can handle the situation and take care of yourself and your family until some sort of order is restored.
Of course, every disaster calls for its own specialized plan, but there are some things you can do to get ready no matter where you live and what natural phenomenon you’re most at risk of dealing with.
They include:
#1: Having adequate rations
While you can, and most likely will, live without a lot of modern day conveniences when confronted with a natural disaster, you cannot survive without food. Therefore, you’re going to want to have enough edibles on hand to support your family for a week or more.
Some great options include canned soups and meals (make sure you have a can opener set aside too), tuna, cereals, snack bars, peanut butter, crackers and protein bars. Try to pick things higher in nutritional value so that you can keep your strength and energy up until life returns to normal.
Also, make sure you have adequate water on hand. Grab a couple of cases or gallons and store them in the event that you can’t (or shouldn’t) drink your own tap water.
An easy way to get your pantry up to par is to buy a little extra every time you go to the grocery store. And, revolve your stock so that nothing expires before you need it.
Keep these items in a bin in the garage, basement or some other easy to access place where they won’t mistakenly get eaten. Just make sure it is a dry location that is relatively free from major heat or cold changes.
#2: Stocking up on non-food items
In addition to food, you’re also going to need additional items in the event of an emergency that knocks out your power. This includes toilet paper, paper plates, plastic silverware and paper towel.
These may not seem like necessities, but if you’ve ever tried camping without them, you know how important they truly are.
Normally, you may have products such as these lying around the house, but don’t count on it. Disasters often strike when you’re least ready for them (such as when your supplies are ultra-low and you haven’t made it to the store to replace them yet).
So, if you always have them on hand and stashed away, it is one less thing you’ll have to worry about.
#3: Gather non-emergency supplies
What are some things that would make your life easier if you’re suddenly without electricity? You would likely benefit from candles (and something to light them with), flashlights (with extra batteries), a battery powered radio (with extra batteries as well) and maybe even a propane powered heater.
Grab a wrench and keep it handy in case you need to turn off any of your utilities. Also, some face masks may be beneficial if the air is unclean. It’s also not a bad idea to purchase a solar charger for your cell phone. The towers may have been knocked out too, but at least you’ll have communication once they’re up and running again.
Ideally, you’ll want to mentally walk through your day and try to think of all of the things that you won’t have access to if you’re a victim of a disaster. Gather items that will provide you a little bit of comfort during such a trying time.
Some other options may be things that will take your mind off the situation. For instance, maybe you’ll include a book or two, or a family game to keep the children preoccupied. These types of items are as important to your mental survival as food is to your physical survival.
#4: Create a first-aid kit
Sometimes disasters bring about injuries. And, if they’re disasters that are widespread, it may be a while before you can seek medical attention. So, you’re going to want to be able to handle anything you can in the meantime.
The minimum your kit should have is bandages (both for cuts and to wrap a sprained area), first aid ointment, alcohol or other astringent, ibuprofen or acetaminophen and maybe some stomach soothers (like antacids).
While you certainly wouldn’t be expected to do any detailed surgical procedures, you want items on and to at least be able to clean wounds and stop excessive bleeding.
You may want to include a CPR mask (if you don’t already know this life-saving technique, you really should make it a priority) and something to use as a tourniquet, such as a shoelace or long piece of fabric.
This is not only important for you and your family, but you may also be called on to help neighbors or friends who have been hurt by flying debris or sharp objects. Be ready and available with the supplies you need.
Don’t be the person that sticks her head in the sand and pretends that nothing bad is going to happen to her. Instead, choose to be prepared and ready no matter what comes your way. Your life may just depend on it.
Cover photo: fantasticviewpoint.com
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