Why Every Prepper Needs a Disaster Supplies Kit
Emergencies can happen at any time, and you may not get a warning before disaster strikes. That’s why building a disaster supplies kit is one of the smartest things you can do to keep your family safe. A disaster kit is simply a collection of important items that will help you survive if you have to leave your home quickly or if you get stuck without power, clean water, or help for several days.
When disaster hits, you might have to evacuate quickly. You probably won’t have time to run to the store or search your home for what you need. If you have your kit ready ahead of time, you’ll be prepared to handle almost anything that comes your way.
How Long Should You Be Ready to Survive?
You should plan to survive on your own for at least 72 hours (three days). This means you’ll need enough food, water, and other supplies to last your family until help arrives. Sometimes, it may take longer for emergency workers to reach everyone. Services like electricity, gas, water, and phones could be out for days or even weeks. Your kit is your lifeline when the world around you suddenly stops working.
Essential Items for Your Survival Kit
Every prepper’s kit will look a little different, but there are some basic supplies that everyone should have. Here’s a list of must-have items for your disaster kit:
- Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day, for at least three days. This covers both drinking and basic cleaning.
- Non-perishable Food: Pack at least a three-day supply of food that won’t spoil. Canned goods, granola bars, and freeze-dried meals are good choices.
- Battery-powered or Hand Crank Radio: Stay informed about weather and emergency updates. A NOAA Weather Radio with a tone alert is best.
- Flashlight: Light is crucial when the power goes out. Make sure to have extra batteries.
- First Aid Kit: Accidents happen, especially in emergencies. Stock your kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Whistle: Use it to signal for help if you get trapped or need to get someone’s attention.
- Dust Mask: Protects your lungs from dust, smoke, or contaminated air. Add plastic sheeting and duct tape for sheltering in place.
- Sanitation Supplies: Pack moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal cleanliness.
- Manual Can Opener: Most emergency food comes in cans, so you’ll need this.
- Tools: Wrench or pliers can help you turn off utilities if there’s a gas leak or water main break.
- Maps: Keep local maps in your kit in case GPS or cell service fails.
- Chargers and Backup Batteries: Have ways to charge your cell phone, even if the power is out.
Add These Extras for Full Readiness
Once you’ve got your basic kit together, think about your family’s special needs. Adding a few extra items can make a big difference if you have to use your kit for more than a few days:
- Prescription Medications and Glasses: Don’t forget vital meds or backup glasses for anyone who needs them.
- Infant and Elderly Supplies: Formula, diapers, and wipes for babies; incontinence products or special nutrition for seniors.
- Pet Supplies: Food, water, and comfort items for your animals.
- Important Documents: Keep copies of ID, insurance papers, and emergency contacts in a waterproof bag.
- Cash: ATMs may be down and stores might only take cash during a disaster.
- Warm Clothing and Blankets: Weather can change fast, and you may not have heat.
- Sturdy Shoes and Gloves: You may need to walk over debris or help with cleanup.
Tips for Building and Maintaining Your Kit
Building a kit isn’t something you do once and forget. It’s important to check your kit regularly so that everything stays fresh and ready to use.
- Rotate food and water every six months so nothing expires.
- Test flashlights and radios and replace batteries as needed.
- Update your kit as your family’s needs change—new baby, new pet, health changes, etc.
- Practice using your kit with your family, so everyone knows where it is and how to use what’s inside.
Self-Reliance: Your Best Defense
When disaster strikes, your kit gives you the power to survive until help arrives. Being prepared also means you can help neighbors and loved ones who might not be ready. The more we rely on ourselves, the less we have to worry when things get tough. Building a disaster supplies kit is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and be ready for anything the world throws your way.
Action Steps for Preppers
- Start building your kit today: Even a few items are better than none.
- Involve your whole family in kit building so everyone knows what’s inside and how to use it.
- Share your preparedness tips with friends and neighbors to strengthen your whole community.