If you have spent any time researching emergency preparedness, you have probably noticed a pretty consistent theme: 72-hour survival. Everyone suggests you need a three-day survival kit, but they all vary on what to put into it. This four-part series can help you make informed decisions on the where, what and how of putting together your own customized kit.
A. Type of Disaster
Key to understanding what to pack away for emergencies is understanding what kind of emergency you are likely to face. Knowing what types of scenarios are common to your regions is essential to planning an adequate survival kit.
- Tornadoes, wild fires, flash floods and man-made disasters like train derailment or chemical spills will require quick action during an evacuation, so your emergency supplies should be located where you can literally grab and go.
- Hurricanes or slow-rising floods often require you to leave your home but typically provide more notice.
- Other emergencies like winter storms may not require evacuation but could knock out power and utilities for an extended period of time.
B. Location
You need to be prepared for the climate, terrain and other factors presented by your local geography. If you live in a cold environment, you will want to make heat and insulation more of a priority than someone living in Arizona. If precipitation is likely, you will need to make sure to have protection from rain or snow. Identify the particular seasonal needs of your area and prepare for each contingency.If disaster calls for evacuation, shelter will be your most important need once you are out of danger’s path. Based on your geographical preparations, determine what kind of shelter you need based on likely weather conditions in your area. If you may face inclement weather then a tent makes real sense; just make sure it is sized to your family’s needs. If you’re more likely to need protection only from midday sun or a few drops from a passing shower, then a tarp may be the solution. A tarp is generally lighter and takes up less room in your kit; remember, you may be carrying all this on your back.
C. Family Circumstances
Once you have assessed what types of emergency situations you may face, it is time to look at your own family circumstances. The needs of a family with small children vary greatly from that of an elderly couple. Beyond the obvious differences like diapers vs. prescription medications, children are going to want different foods, have different hygiene needs and so on. Make sure to account for all members of your family, including any pets, and prepare your list of preparations to provide for everyone.Now that you have done all your pre-kit assembly planning, it is time to start getting everything together. Stay tuned for part two, where we will discuss a top priority in any survival kit: food and water.