Preparing for an emergency can make you feel more secure and less vulnerable. It’s important to be ready for the unexpected, but not just in the way you would prepare for a vacation or periodic trip. Preparing for an actual emergency requires direction and planning so that supplies are in good shape before the event. There is an absolute necessity to have this type of equipment at home to make sure that your family’s safety is always on your mind during all blizzards or floods. Here are seven basics every family should have for emergency preparedness.
Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is a savings account that you’ve set aside for unexpected expenses. This could be an emergency car repair, a medical bill, or even a last-minute holiday booking.
It’s important to have an emergency fund because it gives you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong, you won’t be forced to pay out of your savings account or credit cards. This will allow you to focus on other aspects of your finances and be able to deal with any problems without having to worry about money.
Having an emergency fund gives you peace of mind because it means that if something does go wrong, there will be no immediate financial pressure on your finances. If anything happens and your car breaks down, for example, then this will not affect your ability to pay other bills such as rent or mortgage payments. You won’t have to dip into savings or borrow from friends and family just so that you can get by until the next paycheck comes in.
Flashlight and Batteries
A flashlight is a must-have item for an emergency preparedness kit. It can be used to light up the way in any dark situation. It is also helpful in finding your way out of a building if you can’t find an exit during a power outage. You should, however, have some considerations when choosing a flashlight for your family.
The first thing to consider is its size. The most common sizes are ¼ inch and ½ inch in diameter. The larger the size, the more light it will produce. If you have limited space and don’t want to carry around a large flashlight, then go with the smaller one that would fit into your pocket or purse.
Another thing to consider when buying a flashlight is how long its battery life lasts. Most flashlights use AA batteries or D batteries which are readily available at any store that sells batteries. However, if you’re planning on using your flashlight for an extended amount of time, such as camping or hiking, then get rechargeable ones so that you don’t have to buy new ones every time their batteries run out of power.
Nonperishable Food
Nonperishable food is a vital part of any emergency preparedness plan. Nonperishable food items are the ones that will keep you going long enough to get back on your feet, even if you have no running water or electricity.
Non Perishable foods last for years and can be stored in your pantry for as long as five to seven years. This means that if you have an emergency and are not able to buy any more nonperishables, you will still have plenty of food to feed your family until you can get back on your feet again.
Nonperishables are one of the few things that will actually save money during an emergency because they are so cheap. Nonperishables are also less likely to go rancid or moldy than canned or packaged foods, which means they will keep longer and be more nutritious than canned goods.
A Basic First-Aid Kit
A basic first-aid kit is a necessity for every family. It’s a good idea to have one in your car or home, but it’s even better if you can keep it in a designated place where everyone can see it and know how to use it.
A basic first-aid kit should contain items that are easy to access, such as bandages, gauze pads, and tape. It should also include items that are easy to use, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. The kit should also include some medicine, such as pain relievers or antihistamines that can be taken by mouth or applied topically for minor injuries.
Copies of Important Documents
This is especially important if your family needs to evacuate quickly. If there’s a fire, tornado, or other emergencies, you’ll need proof that you’re allowed to be where you are and that you have the right to stay there. Make sure your children have copies of their birth certificates, passports, and Social Security cards in a safe place.
Extra Clothes and Shoes
A family emergency kit should include an extra change of clothes for each person — and a pair of shoes for each individual. You should also include warm-weather gear such as hats, scarves, and gloves; sweaters; jackets; boots; rain gear (including an umbrella) for everyone; blankets for everyone. And make sure everyone has plenty of water.
Medication
Families should have a supply of their own prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Some families may also want to keep extra doses of their prescriptions in case they run out at home or are unable to reach their doctor.
Conclusion
Overall, being prepared can help reduce the stresses and risks associated with natural disasters. Don’t overlook these seven basics as you plan for your own emergency preparedness, especially if your family may need to shelter in place.
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
