In order to have a well-rounded preparedness plan for your
family, you should include preparations in the event that it becomes necessary
to leave your home (and all of your other provisions) in an emergency
situation. Some people believe that this is possibly the most important aspect
of family home storage and preparedness. As you read through this information,
the most important thing to take away from it is to DO IT NOW. Start today with
items that you have around your house. You don’t need to spend a lot of money,
but you do need to START by compiling the items for your 72-Hour kit TODAY. You
will never regret having taken the time to prepare these things in the event
you ever need to use them!
Before you start, take the time to think through a few “what
if” scenarios to determine what will be best for you and your family. Think in
terms of A.S.A.P.: Attainability, Storability, Accessibility
and Portability. It isn’t wise to spend a lot of money you don’t have in
order to compile a fancy emergency kit. It is also NOT wise to put off
organizing your kit until you have the money. Decide on what you can afford and
work with what you have NOW. Storability, accessibility and portability are
things you’ll want to keep in mind as you compile and maintain your family’s
kit.
Where To Start:
Begin with a sturdy bag or backpack that has a sturdy strap and zips shut and
that is large enough to hold a complete kit, (again, you needn’t spend a lot of
money – you can use what you already have around your house, or get one from a
thrift store.) Generally speaking, you should have one bag for each member of
your family that is old enough and strong enough to carry it. Portability is of
the essence, since it may be necessary to walk some distance in the event of an
evacuation. Some state agencies recommend putting all items for your family in
a large garbage can with wheels. This is much better than nothing, but
depending on your circumstances, it may be hard to put a garbage can in your
car if you need to evacuate. Consider your family’s needs first.
Begin today, even if you need to begin by using a pillow
case or paper grocery bag for now. Go over the attached lists, tailoring them
to your personal circumstances and needs. Gather the items that you already
have in one place, and mark down the items that you still need to get.
Designate your storage spot, the place in your home where you will keep your emergency
kits, and keep your fledgling kit there. Take a list with you to the grocery
store the next time you go grocery shopping and pick up a few items each time
until your kit is complete. Just start now, and keep working on it!
A Word About Storage:
Store kits in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight, preferably in a closet
near the front entrance of your home. Remember in the event of a natural
disaster or other emergency, this kit should be readily accessible at a moment’s
notice. Placing kits in the back of storage sheds, under stairs or in other
areas which may become inaccessible in an emergency may render them useless.
Careful thought and planning should go into the storage location of your
family’s emergency kits.
Happy Homemaking!
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