The way people have reacted to disaster strike in the past shows us why it’s such a good idea to have what you need to hand. Some items will sell out faster than others, which is why you should get what you need now, instead of waiting until it’s too late. Let’s take a look at some of the top items you are likely to need should disaster strike so you can be prepared:
1. Water
Bottled water is something of a necessity when disaster strikes. While there might always be some type of food available, clean water can be scarce. You should ideally have at least 3 liters of water per person per day. This means if there are 3 people in your household and the disaster lasts for 10 days, you’ll need at least 30 liters of water.
Powdered milk can also be purchased in advance. It can prove useful if you cannot buy fresh milk anymore.
2. Canned Food
When disaster strikes, canned food is often the first type of food to go. People aren’t very concerned about fresh food; they need food that lasts a long time. Some canned foods will last for many years and they’ll still be ok to eat. If you buy enough food in advance, you’ll have foods that you don’t mind eating.
2. Batteries
You might not automatically think that batteries are a necessity. However, you need to consider what will power your flashlights and radios. Get as many batteries as you can. If you’re lucky and the power is still on, any rechargeable batteries and battery chargers you have can be used.
3. First Aid Kit
Get as many first aid kits as you can. No matter how careful you are, you will need something from a first aid kit from time to time. The distinct lack of medical treatment that’s available when disaster strikes can be very hard. Do yourself a favor and get some kits now.
4. Repair Kit
Another type of kit that’s a necessity is a repair kit. Consider filling it with screwdrivers, hammers, and other types of tools you’ll need. If something breaks, strong tape or super glue is the solution. Need to repair your car? All the tools you need should be readily available.
5. Camping Equipment
If you need to leave home, you’ll need somewhere to stay. Having a tent and a range of camping equipment can help you there. Ensure you also have lanterns, tarps, flashlights, sleeping bags, and other items you’ll need should you go camping. Don’t forget to buy some meals RTE, just in case you need them. Visit camping stores and stock up in advance.
6. Medication
You might not take any prescription medication right now, but that does not mean you should not have any medication stored away. Make sure you have plenty of over-the-counter medication to hand as you might need it. You should also consider getting medication for heartburn, medication for other types of digestive discomfort, diarrhea relief, and laxative medication.
If you can, get some energy tablets, and cold or flu relief medication. Get as many different types of medication that you can so you’re prepared.
7. Charcoal
You might need charcoal if you wish to start a fire. During a disaster, people could be burning what they can to stay warm or to cook food. If you have enough charcoal, you can stay warm. Fires can give you a sense of well-being and act as a means of keeping you safe.
Consider storing other fire-lighting materials. Be sure to keep them in a safe place so they cannot accidentally set alight.
8. Clothing
It goes without saying that you’ll need the right type of clothing if you need to go outside in a disaster. Ensure you have warm, waterproof, and cool clothing. You should have boots that mean you can walk on any surface, hats, gloves, and layers to keep you warm. If it’s hot outside, you should have linen and other types of warm weather clothing to keep you cool. Don’t forget to have shades, hats, and sunscreen as you might need those.
9. Fishing and Hunting Tools
How are you going to eat if you don’t have the right tools? You’ll need knives, fishing rods, and firearms. Make sure you know how to use them so you can hunt for food if you need to. Learn how to fillet a fish, and skin birds, and other animals so you can prepare food quickly if you need to.
Finally, if you can, buy plenty of chocolate and candy in advance. While they are not necessarily essential foods, they can help to boost morale. Buy some sugary desserts too so you can enjoy them now and again.
Should disaster strike and you have all of the above items, you’re more likely to survive. Think about stocking up now before it’s too late.
