Introduction
When preparing for an emergency, it is important to have a list of essential items that will help you to survive. This list should be tailored to your specific needs, but there are some general items that should be included in any survival kit. Here are thirteen must-have survival items for emergency prepping:
- Water: You will need water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. It is recommended to have at least one gallon of water per person, per day.
- Food: Non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dry goods, and snacks will help to keep you nourished in an emergency situation.
- First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries and illnesses. Be sure to include any prescription medications that you or your family members take regularly.
- Flashlight: A flashlight can be used for illumination in dark places and can also be used as a signal device if necessary.
- Battery-Powered Radio: A radio will allow you to stay informed of developing weather conditions and other events that may impact your safety.
- Multi-Tool: A multi-tool is a handy tool to have in an emergency situation because it can be used for a variety of tasks such as cutting, opening cans, and screwing/unscrewing objects.
- Fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher can be used to put out small fires before they get out of control.
- whistle: A whistle can be used to signal for help if you are lost or injured. It can also be used to scare away animals if necessary.
- Machete: A machete can be useful for clearing trails, chopping wood, and self-defense in some situations.
- Map and compass :A map and compass can help you orient yourself if you become lost or turned around in an unfamiliar area .
- Hygiene items : Hygiene items such as soap , toothpaste , and toilet paper will help you maintain basic levels of cleanliness during an emergency situation . 1
- Clothing and bedding : Extra clothing and bedding will protect you from the weather and keep you warm at night .
- Waterproof storage containers : Waterproof storage containers are essential for keeping your belongings dry during wet weather conditions or when crossing bodies of water .
Water
Water is undeniably one of the most important items on this list. You can only survive without water for about three days, and even then, you will be in a miserable state. dehydration will cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and extreme thirst. When stocking up on water for an emergency, you should have one gallon per person per day. If you have pets, you should also have enough water for them. It’s also a good idea to have some extra in case you need to use it for other purposes, such as cleaning or cooking.
Water filtration systems are a good way to make sure you have access to clean water in an emergency. There are many different types of filters available on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find one that will suit your needs. Some filters are better than others at removing different types of contaminants, so you should make sure that your chosen filter is effective against the types of contaminants that are most likely to be found in your water supply.
Food
One week’s worth of non-perishable food items, as well as a non-electric can opener, should be included in every emergency preparedness kit. Canned goods, high-energy foods such as granola bars or peanut butter, and dried fruits and nuts are all excellent choices. Be sure to include foods that meet the needs of infants or elderly family members who may have special dietary requirements.
Shelter
Shelter is critical for survival. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, having the right shelter can mean the difference between life and death. Here are 13 must-have items to help you stay safe and warm in an emergency situation.
- Emergency blanket: An emergency blanket is a must-have item for any prepper. This lightweight, compact blanket can be used to help keep you warm in an emergency situation.
- Tent: A tent can provide shelter from the elements and protection from wildlife. When choosing a tent, be sure to select one that is large enough to comfortably accommodate your family or group.
- Sleeping bags: Sleeping bags are a must-have for any prepper. They will help keep you warm in an emergency situation and can also be used as a makeshift bed. Choose sleeping bags that are rated for cold weather conditions if you expect to experience extreme temperatures.
- Flashlight: A flashlight is a necessity for any prepper. Choose a flashlight that is durable and has a long battery life. Be sure to pack extra batteries as well.
- Portable stove: A portable stove can be used to cook food or boil water in an emergency situation. Choose a stove that is easy to set up and use, and that uses fuel that is readily available (such as propane or butane).
Clothing
In an emergency situation, you’ll want to have the right clothing to keep you warm and dry. Make sure you have a few changes of clothes, including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, socks, and a jacket or coat. If it’s cold outside, you might also want to pack a scarf, hat, and gloves.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is an essential part of any emergency preparedness plan. It should be stocked with supplies to treat minor injuries and illnesses, as well as more serious injuries. Here is a list of items that should be included in a basic first aid kit:
-Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
-Antiseptic wipes, cream or ointment
-Cotton balls or cotton-tipped swabs
-Gauze pads in assorted sizes
-Hypodermic needle
-Prescription medications (If you have any medical conditions that require specific medication, be sure to include enough to last for at least a week.)
-Safety pins
-Scissors
-Sterile gloves
-Surgical tape
-Thermometer
-Tweezers
Tools
One of the first things you need to do when prepping for an emergency is to gather the right tools. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to include basic items like a flashlight or a first-aid kit. Here are 13 essential tools that should be on your list:
-Flashlight: A must-have for any emergency situation, a flashlight will help you find your way in the dark or signal for help.
-Multi-purpose tool: A multi-tool like a Swiss Army knife can come in handy for a variety of tasks, from opening cans to fixing broken electronics.
-First-aid kit: A comprehensive first-aid kit should include everything from bandages and antibacterial ointment to pain relievers and emergency medications.
-Battery-operated radio: A radio will let you stay informed about what’s happening during an emergency and can also be used to tune into emergency broadcasts.
-Fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher can help stop a small fire from getting out of control.
-Water: It’s important to have plenty of water on hand in case of an emergency, especially if you live in an area with limited access to clean water.
-Food: Nonperishable food items like canned goods and energy bars can help tide you over until help arrives or you are able to get to a safe place.
-Clothing: Extra clothing, blankets, and sleeping bags can help keep you warm if you find yourself stranded in cold weather.
-Shovel: A shovel can be used for everything from digging out your car after a snowstorm to building a shelter in case of an earthquake.
-Tarp: A tarp can be used as a temporary shelter or as a way to collect rainwater for drinking.
-Duct tape: Duct tape can be used for everything from fixing broken equipment topatching up holes in clothing.
Route planning guide: A route planning guide can help you map out the safest wayto get to your destination in an emergency situation.
Sanitation and Hygiene
One of the key areas often overlooked in emergency preparedness is sanitation and hygiene. In a survival situation, access to clean water and soap may be limited, making it difficult to maintain good hygiene practices. However, there are a few key items that can help you stay clean and healthy in an emergency situation.
- Water purification tablets or filter: Clean water is essential for good hygiene, so having a way to purify water is a must-have for any emergency preparedness kit. Water purification tablets or a portable water filter can help ensure that you have access to clean water in an emergency.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer: In a survival situation, soap and water may not always be available for handwashing. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help reduce the spread of germs and keep your hands clean in an emergency situation.
- Disposable wipes: Disposable wipes can be used for cleaning your hands, face, and body in an emergency situation when soap and water are not available. They can also be used for cleaning surfaces (such as doorknobs and countertops) to help prevent the spread of germs.
- Trash bags: Trash bags can be used for storing garbage, dirty laundry, or other waste materials in an emergency situation. They can also be used as makeshift sleeping mats or ponchos in a pinch.
- Portable toilet: A portable toilet can be a godsend in an emergency situation when access to regular toilets is not available. Be sure to include extra garbage bags and disinfectant wipes with your portable toilet to make cleanup easier.
- Feminine hygiene products: Feminine hygiene products are essential for women who may need them during their period in an emergency situation (or even just for everyday use if you prefer not to use public toilets). Be sure to include extra pads or tampons in your kit, as well as pain relievers and other personal care items that may be needed.
Fire
One of the first things you’ll need in a survival situation is a way to make a fire. Fire can be used for warmth, cooking, to purify water, signal for help, and helpful in drying wet clothes or creating makeshift shelter. When choosing a fire-starting method, it’s important to consider what type of fuel you’ll have access to and how easy the method is to use. There are many options available, so choose the one that makes the most sense for your situation.
-Lighter
-Matches
-Ferrocerium rod
-Flint and steel
-Magnifying glass
-Solar spark lighter
Light
In an emergency, every second counts. Having the right supplies on hand can mean the difference between life and death. Here are 13 must-have items to keep in your survival kit so you’re prepared for anything.
- A Knife – A good knife is essential for any survival situation. It can be used for hunting, self-defense, or to cut through debris.
- A Fire Starter – A fire starter will help you get a fire going quickly in any conditions.
- A First Aid Kit – A first aid kit is a necessity in any survival situation. It can help you treat injuries and illnesses until help arrives.
- A Water Filter – A water filter will let you drink from any water source, even if it’s contaminated.
- Food – Non-perishable food items should be included in your survival kit so you have something to eat if you’re stranded for an extended period of time.
- Shelter – Shelter is crucial in a survival situation, whether it’s a tent, tarp, or simply a blanket to protect you from the elements.
- Clothing – Extra clothing items should be kept in your survival kit so you’re prepared for any climate or weather condition.
- A Multi-Tool – A multi-tool is a handy tool to have in any situation, and it can come in handy in a survival situation where you need to improvise or MacGyver your way out of trouble
Communication
One of the most important things you can do when preparing for an emergency is to establish a means of communication with your loved ones. This could be as simple as having a family member or friend who lives out of state that you can call in case of an emergency, or it could be something more complex like setting up a Ham radio. Either way, communication is key in any emergency situation.
Here are some communication items that should be on your list:
-A phone or laptops with charged batteries
-A backup battery or power source for your phone or laptop
-A list of emergency contacts
-A NOAA Weather Radio
-A two-way radio
-HAM Radio
Self-Defense
There are a number of ways to defend yourself and your family during an emergency situation, but having the right tools on hand is crucial. Here are thirteen must-have items for self-defense:
- A solid, reliable flashlight. This is useful for both identifying threats in the dark and for signaling for help.
- A fire extinguisher. In the event of a fire, this can be used to put it out quickly and prevent further damage.
- A first aid kit. This is vital for treating injuries sustained during an emergency situation.
- A whistle. This can be used to signal for help or to warn others of danger.
- Pepper spray or mace. This can be used to deter an attacker long enough to escape or get help.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are thirteen of the most essential survival items that you should have in your home in case of an emergency. While no list can be exhaustive, this should give you a good starting place to put together your own emergency preparedness kit. Be sure to customize it to fit your specific needs and the needs of your family. And remember, practice makes perfect! The more you prepare now, the better equipped you’ll be to handle whatever comes your way.