Be Prepared for Any Disaster With These Essentials
If you live in the Midwest, you know it’s the height of tornado season in the region. Meanwhile, the hurricane season looks set to be more intense than last year. Additionally, there are earthquakes that could happen at any time on the West Coast (and they just happened on the East Coast last month ). With so many disasters upon us, it is vital to prepare for everything.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security strongly recommends preparing a disaster supply kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers so that you and your family can survive on your own for a few days if something happens. In addition to storing maps, sanitizer, medications, and food for your four-legged friends, you’ll need these recommended disaster supplies.
Water
An emergency can leave you without clean water for days. It is recommended to have one gallon of water for each member of your family for several days. To make sure you have enough clean water, grab this collection of six emergency water storage tanks. Each holds five gallons and comes with two spigots and a water purification kit.
Non-perishable foods
Even in the event of a disaster, you need to eat, so why not eat well? This set includes 10 different freeze-dried meals that will last for a quarter century, including chili pasta and mashed potatoes. This durable, flood-proof container holds a total of 120 meals and can be stored almost anywhere.
Handheld radio and flashlight
They say no one listens to the radio anymore, but it’s your lifeline to staying on top of weather-related disasters. This AM/FM/NOAA emergency weather radio is a versatile tool that can be powered by hand crank, solar power or USB cable. It also includes a flashlight and SOS, giving you multiple modes to stay informed and safe. Most importantly, it can charge your phone, ensuring you stay connected when it matters most.
First aid kit
Cuts, bruises, burns and fevers: this 160-piece first aid kit will take care of it all. It includes everything you need: cleansing wipes, various bandages, gauze rolls, antibiotic cream, anti-itch cream, acetaminophen capsules, instant cold compress, and even gloves to reduce the risk of infection.
Additional batteries
Yes, even today, with everything recharging, you will need AA, AAA, and even 9V batteries to keep everything in your home running in an emergency. Instead of storing them in a drawer in your kitchen (you know the one), organize them in Battery Daddy . My family has had this for years and it always comes in handy for checking the batteries we already have and storing new ones when we need them the most (like Christmas morning).
Whistling
This emergency whistle can be heard a mile away if you want to get someone’s attention or signal for help. It’s also plastic, so there’s no danger of it sticking to your lips in cold weather.
Respirator
During an emergency, the air can be contaminated, so wearing a mask that is approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to filter out anything harmful will protect your respiratory system and keep you safe. This pack of 10 disposable masks will make your work comfortable and at a reasonable price.
Plastic covering
If your home is damaged, you will need to quickly put something together to protect it and your family from the elements. Plastic wrap and duct tape can help you in a pinch, but this thick, heavy-duty product is easy to apply and will cover any surface and protect it from cold, rain, or strong winds.
Sanitation
When using the toilet isn’t an option, this toilet in a bag will capture your numbers one and two and turn it into something you can safely dispose of without worrying about odor or attracting disease-carrying insects. Don’t forget to purchase cleaning wipes, which are available as compressed wipes .
Tools
After a natural disaster such as an earthquake or fire, you may need to quickly turn off your gas or water supply. However, if the power goes out or part of your home is flooded, you won’t be able to get to your wrench set. This lightweight aluminum four-in-one tool can get the job done without charging power tools. In addition to shutting off utilities, it can also break down doors so you can reach family members in other parts of your home.
Manual can opener
Your fancy electric can opener may not work when you need to open a can of food. Be sure to add this durable, rust-resistant device to your kit to open that can of peaches or bottle of beer you’ll need when the storm finally passes.
Charger for your mobile phone
It’s hard to stay connected with family and friends if your smartphone battery is low. With this rugged, waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof solar charger, you can keep all your devices running. It also comes with a bright LED flashlight, so you don’t have to search in the dark for a charging cord.