After the terrible weather earlier this year, we can't help but get a little worried every time heavy winds and rain set in. The age-old saying by Oscar Wilde to "expect the unexpected" couldn't be more true, given the craziness of the weather around the world right now. Don't be caught off guard – it's not just disaster-prone regions that should prepare for hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, as disasters are affecting more and more cities than ever before. But no need to panic! I've got you covered with a full list of what to pack in your emergency kit below or you can watch our Instagram Reel here. And speaking of being covered, water should be your top priority. Why, you ask? Well, let's dive into it!
Water is essential for survival, and having enough of it can make a huge difference in an emergency. In the event of a disaster, access to clean water can be limited or even cut off completely. And let's face it – dehydration can set in quickly, especially in hot or dry conditions, leading to headaches, dizziness, and even organ failure in severe cases. Yikes!
But it's not just for drinking! Water is also essential for sanitation, such as hand washing and cleaning wounds. And let's be real – getting your hands on clean water in an emergency can be challenging, not just because of those panic buyers clearing shelves, but more importantly for those who have to evacuate their home or are in an area without a reliable source of clean water. So it's best to be prepared.
Your emergency kit should have everything you need to survive for at least three days without outside help. Here's a quick rundown of the essentials you need to pack:
- Water: You should have at least one gallon (4L) of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. And don't forget to include water for your furry friends too!
- Non-perishable food: Canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit are all great options. Just make sure they don't require cooking or refrigeration unless you have access to power or gas cooking facilities.
- First aid kit: Bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers are all must-haves.
- Flashlight and batteries: There are also some amazing wind-up torches so you're not caught in the dark if your batteries die on you.
- Portable radio: Stay informed about the situation and any emergency instructions.
- Whistle: Use it to signal for help if you're trapped or in danger.
- Blankets: Keep warm in case you're without heat.
- Personal hygiene items: Toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer are all important.
Now, let's get back to water.
If you're using tap water, it's important to treat it properly to make sure it's safe to drink. If you're unsure if your tap water is safe to drink, you can boil it for at least one minute to kill any bacteria and viruses. You can also use water purification tablets or filters.
If you're in an area where the water is often cut off during storms here's a little tip: Fill up your bathtub with water before a disaster strikes. This can be used for flushing the toilet or washing dishes.
As we mentioned earlier, you should have at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. It's also a good idea to have additional water for pets and for cleaning wounds. Make sure to store your water in sturdy, leak-proof containers and keep them in a cool, dry place. Our 10L bag in box is perfect to keep on hand for disasters. The bag inside the box keeps water fresher for longer as it doesn't come into contact with sunlight or oxygen even once it's been opened. Our 1 Gallon bottles (available in California and Utah stores) are easy to carry around with a handle and ensures you have your 1 Gallon per person readily available. It's always a good idea to check your kit every 6 months to a year to make sure that all items are in working order and none of your food is expired.
So, there you have it! With water as your top priority, you're well on your way to packing the perfect disaster kit for any emergencies you might have.
Stay safe out there, friends! I'm here to answer any questions you might have. You can email me here: delyse@1907water.com
