Disasters can strike suddenly and leave you and your loved ones without the items that you rely on for safety and survival. Unexpected emergencies can impact your home, your neighborhood, your city, or your entire state. Several natural disasters can cause these sudden emergencies, such as wildfires, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and blizzards. The unfortunate reality is that these natural disasters are now occurring more frequently, and experts sometimes underestimate the damage that these disasters are capable of. To make matters worse, there are other events, such as power outages and residential fires, that you can’t account for by looking at a weather forecast.
It’s difficult and almost impossible to imagine yourself without power, access to the internet, or running water—but in the event of a sudden emergency, anything can go wrong. You and your family must have an emergency plan and supplies prepared for any disaster.
Understanding the Basics
Depending on where you live, a disaster could mean anything; from heavy snow to untamable fires, there are certain natural disasters that you are more prone to falling victim to based on your region. Make your emergency plan and kit personal to the most common catastrophes in your area. A little preparedness goes a long way.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, a good rule of thumb to follow is to have enough food, water, and essential supplies on hand that can last you up to 4 days in case you must evacuate. However, some families may not be able to escape when an emergency strikes, so the Red Cross recommends having a 2-week supply of food, water, and essentials readily available in your home.
Items That Your Kit Needs
All of this sounds costly, but the good news is that you have flexible options. You can invest in a pre-made emergency kit, or you can create your own kit for your family. If you choose to make your own, here is a list of items that every kit, whether store-bought or homemade, needs.
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Hand-cranked radio
- First-aid kit
- Cash (store in a waterproof container)
- Can opener
- Flares or a whistle to signal for help
- Dust masks
- Wrench, pliers, and other tools
- Moist towelettes
- Local maps
Create a Food Store
Additionally, you’ll need to keep gallons of water and non-perishable food inside of your garage or basement. Stockpiles of food are known as food stores, and your store should have at least four days worth of food for each member of your house. However, it’s worth your investment to consider stockpiling for two weeks’ worth of food and water, just in case an extreme disaster strikes.
As far as water goes, each person in your house will need one gallon per day. When gathering emergency food, include non-perishable foods that won’t expire for a long time. Go for dry cereal, nuts, dried fruits, shelf-stable milk, and crackers. Aim to provide your family with foods such as granola bars and peanut butter for an energy boost.
In this volatile climate, you can never be too prepared for an emergency. If you aspire to become a firefighter, EMT, or medical assistant to keep those you love safe, the Idaho Medical Academy can help you meet your goals. Our mission is to inspire and provide a pathway for meaningful learning in healthcare. Contact us today.
