Are you prepared to survive a disaster?
What would you do in the event of a natural disaster? What if you didn’t have access to electricity, food or water for extended periods? Are you prepared? Could you survive? What about your family? Here are some things to think about.
In the event of a large disaster, like an earthquake, hurricane, and tornado etc, many things that are modern conveniences and in today’s world necessities will be gone. Things like electricity will be gone in the blink of an eye. Natural gas will be turned off to prevent damage from fires. If phone service is available it will quickly be overwhelmed. Automobiles will be difficult, if not impossible, to get out of the garage without electricity. How will you get gas out of tanks in the ground without electricity? At night street lights may or may not be working. How will you get cash out of the ATM when there is not electricity? How long will your water be safe to drink if it can’t be processed? How will you stay in your home with changes in temperature? Toilets will not work and the list goes on and on.
When these things happen there will be anxiety and hysteria that is a fact. Some of the main things to consider are: water, food, heat, light, safety, health, sanitation, pet care, protection, and finance. Having a plan will not eliminate this from happening but it will make it easier to deal with. It can also be the difference between surviving or not. When preparing think along two paths. First think about safety. This will be the most pressing short term need. Second think as if you were going to go camping deep in the woods without access to anything.
- Have an immediate plan of action – If you are dealing with an earthquake or tornado. You and your family should know what you are going to do. In an earthquake, you should get under a sturdy table. Only go outside while the shaking is going on if you feel the building is in danger of collapse. If you are dealing with a tornado then move to an interior room or basement. When you are dealing with something like a hurricane, the best course is evacuation.
- After the danger has passed, survey your home for damage. If it is safe and you have prepared properly this will be the best place to be. If there is damage, then get out as quickly as possible. Have a meeting place where everyone knows to meet. This should be determined ahead of time. Take as much in the way of supplies as possible. Use your automobile if it is safe. Things that you should have in preparation would be blankets, a first-aid kit, and flashlight including batteries or a solar option and a portable radio with batteries, solar power or a crank. If someone has any injuries, stop any bleeding, clean the wounds and seek medical attention if necessary and possible.
- You should be prepared of at least 3 days to a month without electricity, gas, water or phone service. In the event of a war, this period could exceed 3 months. One gallon of water per person per day is needed. If you have a method to recycle and reuse water that is preferable. Ways to collect and purify water is also desirable. In terms of food, it is estimated that a person consumes 4.7 lbs of food daily. 2000 calories is what the average person needs. This includes 60g of protein.
- Most people live in a cashless world. In the event of an emergency, cash can be necessary. Make sure and have as much in small bills as possible. It may be difficult if not impossible for merchants to give change.
- Keep necessary items on hand. Don’t wait until the last minute or after a disaster to stock up. Things will become more expensive in the event of emergency. Items that don’t require refrigeration are best. Shortages of items will increase costs. Transportation costs will also rise. Look at what you use and start by buying a few extra. If possible buy items in bulk when you are able. This will help reduce the cost. After you accumulate two to three months worth of items, began to rotate stock.
- Creating a first aid kit is a must. Things life butterfly bandages can be used to stitch smaller wounds. Bandages of different sizes and shapes should be in your kit. You may have to be prepared to stitch larger wounds yourself in the event that medical help is not available. Things like hydrogen peroxide, lavender oil, oil of cloves, and rubbing alcohol should be included in your kit. Raw honey has been used as an antibiotic when applied to wounds. Make sure and have an amble supply of medicines.
- Having some form of protection is desirable. Make sure you know how to use and store ammo and guns. The worst situation is to have a gun and not know or be willing to use it. Be aware of any children and the possibilities of them being able reach them. It is better that everyone be aware of the dangers of weapons.
- Practice using these items and make sure they are in working order. This should be done so that everyone knows what to do and to avoid confusion.
This is by no means an exhaustive list. It is a basic outline to help you get started. You should do some research on your own and prepare for your situation based on your location, family size and unique needs.
