Though there is a low risk that you will ever become a victim of a natural disaster, it's vitally important to ensure you are protected and prepared in the event you find yourself in the midst of a hurricane, tornado, earthquake, or other catastrophe. Many times, the actual event itself is not as significant as the immediate survival needs in the hours and days following the event. Being prepared for such an event does not have to be expensive, and should be considered an investment in your family's well-being. There are certain vital items you should have on-hand in your home, car or office during the seasons that are most prone to natural disasters: Food and Water Every living thing must have access to food and water, especially humans! Though most of the population has some excess body fat stored that can be used as an energy source, this can't be relied on. Other issues such as blood sugar and hydration levels must still be addressed, so it's important to ensure your survival kit has both food and water sources included. Food bars and enough water to sustain you for 72 hours are ideal minimum requirements. Warmth and Shelter In addition to sustenance, humans need to be shielded from the elements such as rain, wind and cold. Any survival kit should include emergency blankets, a tent or poncho to keep you dry, and even hand warmers and extra gloves in case you find yourself stranded in the middle of winter. Emergency Communication You'll also want to ensure your emergency survival kit includes ways to announce your presence to the outside world. Whistles, light sticks and a flashlight are all good options to be able to see when it's dark and notify emergency personnel of where you're located. If you're using light sticks, you'll need at least a few of them to keep the area around you illuminated for three days. First Aid and Emergency Tools A compass is always handy in case you find yourself stranded and need to navigate your surroundings. Generally, if you become lost in the wilderness it's best to stay where you are but this may not always be the best option in the case of a natural disaster. Mother Nature has been known to totally eliminate familiar surroundings and landmarks, and a compass will help confirm your location if you need to direct someone to find you. Cleanliness is still important when you're trying to survive so face masks, hand wipes and a standard first aid kit should also be in any basic survival kit. Even the smallest scratch can become a seriously infected wound without the proper care and cleaning habits. Radios An additional item you may find useful in your survival kit is an AM/FM/SW radio. If you find yourself stranded in the basement or other location, it's nice to know the status of your surroundings. Any type of emergency situation will usually cause a power outage that prevents you from watching the news or even calling your loved ones so radios are essential tools in many emergency situations. Special Tools More extensive survival kits should always provide enough items in case you find yourself in an inconvenient situation or location for several days at a time. These kits may include such special tools as knives and saws to cut various items, portable stoves, firestarters or waterproof matches, heavy-duty work gloves, inflators and even carriers or other supplies for your family pets. Power Sources Portable power sources are other ideal items to have handy in any situation. Modern conveniences and society are so dependant upon energy for everyday survival that you should have access to an emergency power supply in any event. These portable power sources can help start your car, inflate a tire or even charge your cell phone or flashlight batteries. Other Survival Tools In addition to the bare essentials, stockpiles of canned food can provide sustenance for more than just a three-day period. You may also want to invest in air mattresses, sleeping bags, portable toilets and toilet paper to keep your family more comfortable in an emergency situation. If you live in an area where hurricanes and floods are prominent worries, an inflatable boat could even mean the difference between life and death in the midst of a natural disaster. Regardless of the reasons you may be considering compiling a survival kit, ensure you have enough supplies for your entire family to rely on for at least a few days. If you live in an area that is especially susceptible to natural disasters or you are planning an outdoor adventure in the wilderness, you may need more expansive equipment to properly prepare and protect your family.
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Though there is a low risk that you will ever become a victim of a natural disaster, it's vitally important to ensure you are protected and prepared in the event...
Be prepared for emergencies, like hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, winter storms, tornados, and pandemic flu. Visit the HurricaneStore.com for hurricane supplies, survival radios and emergency medical kits.
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