Introduction
No one knows when an emergency will happen, so it’s important to be prepared. The Red Cross recommends that every household has an emergency kit containing at least the following 10 items:
- A three-day supply of non-perishable food
- A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day)
- A battery-operated or hand-cranked radio
- A flashlight
- Extra batteries
- A first aid kit
- A whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust masks (to filter out debris)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for sanitation)
- A wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
The 10 items in the emergency kit
An emergency kit is a collection of essential items your family may need in the event of an emergency. The 10 items in the kit are: food, water, shelter, clothing, first aid, tools, sanitation, hygiene, and communication.
Food and water
Food – non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items like peanut butter, crackers, pasta, rice, cereal, trail mix, and granola bars. water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
A flashlight
A flashlight is an essential item in any emergency kit. It can help you see in the dark, signal for help, or find your way if you are lost. You may want to consider a flashlight that is rechargeable or has long-lasting batteries.
A first-aid kit
A first-aid kit should be designed for the types of injuries that could occur at your workplace. It should also be easy to find and access in the event of an emergency. A well-stocked first-aid kit includes items such as:
-gauze pads
-adhesive tape
-bandages
-scissors
-antihistamines
-pain relievers
-sterile gloves
-blanket
-splint
A radio
A radio is an essential item in an emergency kit. It can help you stay informed about what is happening and also provide entertainment during a power outage. A hand-cranked or battery-operated radio is best, so you do not have to worry about power outages.
A multi-tool
A multi-tool is a hand tool that combines several individual functions into a single unit. The Swiss Army Knife is perhaps the best-known example of a multi-tool, but there are many other multi-tools on the market that are designed for specific tasks.
A multi-tool can be an invaluable addition to your emergency kit. It can be used for everything from reprogramming a electronic device to opening a can of food. If you choose to include a multi-tool in your emergency kit, be sure to select one that is durable and has the tools you will need for your specific situation.
A map
A map is an essential item in your emergency kit. It can help you find your way if you get lost, and it can also help you plan your evacuation route in advance. Make sure to include a map of your area, as well as a compass, in your emergency kit.
A fire starter
One of the most important items in any emergency kit is a fire starter. A fire starter will help you to create a fire in order to keep warm, cook food or boil water. It is important to choose a fire starter that is easy to use and reliable. There are many different types of fire starters on the market, so it is important to do some research before purchasing one. Below are some of the best fire starters that you can buy.
- Zippo Emergency Fire Starter: This emergency fire starter from Zippo is compact and easy to use. It comes with beeswax, char cloth and cotton balls that can be used to start a fire.
- Coleman Emergency Fire Starter: This emergency fire starter from Coleman is a great choice for those who need a reliable and easy-to-use product. It comes with a steel wool strike pad and flint that can be used to create a spark.
- UCO Stormproof Matches: These matches from UCO are specially designed to be waterproof and windproof, making them an ideal choice for emergency situations. They come in a handy storage case and will light even when wet.
- Survival Spark Fire Starter: This fire starter from Survival Spark is a great choice for those who need an all-in-one product. It comes with a ferrocerium rod, striker and tinder that can be used to create a spark.
- Exotac nanodac Fire Starter: This mini fire starter from Exotac is perfect for those who need a compact and lightweight product. It comes with ferrocerium rods that can be used to create a spark, as well as tinder storage compartments.
- Tinderbox Tinder Tube: This tinder tube from Tinderbox is perfect for storing tinder material such as cotton balls or dryer lint. It is also fitted with a ferrocerium rod so that you can create a spark when needed.
A shelter
A tent or some kind of all-weather tarpaulin to use as a roof over your head. You may also want to include a small camping stove and some food if you are likely to be away from home for more than a day or two.
Clothing
Clothing is one of the most important items in an emergency kit. Depending on the climate, you will need to pack different types of clothing. In general, it is a good idea to pack clothing that is breathable and easy to layer. You should also pack extra socks and underwear. If you have young children, be sure to pack extra clothes for them as well.
A whistle
A whistle is an important item in any emergency kit. It can be used to signal for help, or to scare away attackers. It is also small and light, so it won’t take up much space in your kit.