Simply a 72-hour kit

When a disaster strikes it is wise to be prepared. Once a disaster strikes there will be rescuers on the way to help, but it might be hours or days before they can get to everybody. That is why it is recommended that you have a 72 hour emergency kit assembled. This kit should include all the basics needed to survive while waiting to be rescued. Basic kit items are listed below in no particular order.

 

 

• Water- At a minimum you should have one gallon per person per day.

• Non-perishable food- There should be enough food stores to feed each person for three days.

• Battery operated or hand crank radio- This will help gauge how long it will be until you are rescued.  During an emergency most radio outlets will have coverage for the duration of the emergency.

• Flashlights- Important to have if you need to navigate in the dark.

• Extra batteries- Make sure there are enough to supply your flashlight and radio for the duration.

• First aid kit- You should have a basic kit at a minimum.

• Whistle- Used to signal for help when rescuers get close.

• Manual can opener- Most non-perishable food items will be canned. Make sure you can access your food supply.

• Fully charged or pre-paid cell phone- Used to phone for help if cell service is available.

Since your kit should always be ready for use, maintenance of your kit is extremely important. There are a few items to consider when maintaining your kit.

 

 

Make sure that all of your canned goods are kept in a cool, dry place. Should the canned food become dented or swollen it should be thrown away. To protect your boxed food it should be kept in an airtight or metal container. This ensures that pests will not infest the food. Shelf life is also extended when it is stored properly. To make sure your supply stays fresh it should be rotated periodically, with the new in the back and older to the front. You should also change out your stored food and water every six months. It is helpful to write the dates on the containers to keep the proper rotation.

The kit should be small enough to be portable and easy to store. The storage area should be somewhere that is easily accessible and can be reached at a moment’s notice. Every member of the family should also know where the kit is stored. You should evaluate your kit on an annual basis to make sure that it is equipped to serve your needs.

 

A well put together kit can make the difference in how you weather a disaster.

 

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Nothing in this post is to be construed as medical advice, simply a sharing of things that have worked for me & my family. If you have any symptoms of serious illness, taking medication, pregnant or nursing, or have never worked with herbal materials or essential oils before, please consider consulting a medical professional before use. I am unable to offer advise for your particular medical situation; please ask your Doctor, Nurse Practitioner or Naturopath for further guidance.  The statements made here have not been approved by the Food & Drug Administration. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. This notice is required by the Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act.