Unexpected emergencies remind you how vulnerable you are, especially when you’re caught unprepared. Don’t be. Anyone who has been through one knows that in an emergency situation, every second counts-- and so does every resource. Whether triggered by a natural disaster, an accident or the harmful actions of another person, emergencies can quickly turn stable environments into scenes of chaos and desperation. While you can’t prepare for everything, there are some basic things you can have on-hand to be ready when things go wrong.
1. Fuel
Fuel is one of the last things people think of when preparing for an emergency. That’s why we’re mentioning it first. Without it, things like cooking, heating, generating electricity and driving quickly fall into the realm of impossibility. While gasoline is good to have on hand, it’s one of the more dangerous fuels when it comes to storage. Propane is much safer and relatively easy to store, which is great if you have a heater or grill that runs on propane. Other fuel options include diesel, charcoal and of course wood. Another alternative is Stove In a Can, which takes fuel that is safe, waterproof and can be stored indefinitely. Whatever fuel you use, don’t forget to have some way to get your fire going-- matches or a fire-starter.
2. Clean Water
Water is our most basic need. To prepare for an emergency where water is absent or contaminated, you’ll either need a supply of water already stored or a way to purify whatever water you are able to collect, such as LifeStraw. Preferably, you’ll have both. Remember, stored water is only useful if it’s accessible. If you ever have to leave your water source, you’ll need a way to carry it with you. You’ll be even better off if you have a way to filter any contaminated water you come across. The Marketplace by TheBlaze offers a wide selection of products that will help you prepare for this and other types of emergencies. Choose products that are compatible with your circumstances.
3. Food
Imagine not being able to go to the grocery store for a week. How about three weeks or a month or five months? While not all emergencies will involve massive food shortages, it’s important to have some extra food on hand, preferably food that is not only sustainable, but also palatable. Stock up on foods that don’t need to be refrigerated. Keep it simple. Just having some jerky, granola bars, peanut butter and tuna on hand is a great way to start. Ready-to-eat meals take it one step further. These can be purchased individually, by the bucket or as part of a survival kit.
4. Light Source
In emergencies that involve power outages, the first thing people go for is a light source. There’s no good in having a ready-to-eat meal or a first aid kit if you can’t find it in the dark. This is also a relatively common emergency. Earthquakes, ice storms, tornados and lightning strikes are just a few of the many causes of power outages. Having reliable light sources on hand can prevent a bad situation from becoming worse. Be sure and keep flashlights, headlamps or a lantern somewhere that is accessible so you can retrieve them in an emergency. Also remember to have plenty of batteries.
5. First Aid Kit
This is a given. First aid kits are meant for responding to emergencies! If you don’t have one, get one. If you’ve had one stashed away in the closet for years, take a look and make it’s stocked with all of the necessities. Check to make sure it contains the necessary items including adhesive bandages, butterfly closures, tape roll bandages, gauze pads, burn cream, antiseptic and gloves. Be sure and keep your first aid kit in a place where the contents will stay sterile and where it is easy to get to in an emergency.
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