We’ve all seen the devastation that some natural disasters happend in this world. Especially in Japan. What would happen if you were you were stuck in a similar situation? Would you know what to do? Would you have all the supplies needed to hold on until help arrives?
From basic survival equipment to making sure that you and your loved ones are comfortable during these trying times, there’re a lot of simple steps that you can take in advance to prepare. Want to know what they are? Keep reading for tips on how to survive national disasters.
Create a Basic Disaster Survival Kit: Creating a basic kit beforehand will go a long way in making sure that you will survive the aftermath of a disaster. Your kit should be stored in a cool dry place and should contain the following items:
** Dried foods
** Water filters
** Any prescription drugs you may need
** Toys and simple games to keep your kids entertained
** First aid kit that includes disinfectant, aspirin, latex gloves, pain relievers, etc.
** Formula or baby food, if applicable
** Swiss Army knife
** Can opener
** Waterproof matches
** Candles
** Radio
** Flashlight
** Batteries
Stock up on Food: Make sure that you have at least a 3 day supply of nonperishable food available. It’s also important to select foods that won’t need cooking, preparation, or refrigeration. If you have kids, consider putting aside their favorite non-perishable snacks for times when they need some comfort. It’s also important to note that you should replace your stored food twice a year.
Have Plenty of Water
It is said that the typical human being cannot go more than 3 days without water. So, like food, it’s important to keep at least 3 days worth of water (per person) on hand. This equals to roughly 3 gallons each, one gallon for drinking, one for sanitary needs, and one for cooking.
Your best option is factory-sealed bottled water, but if you have a purifier, you should use either glass or food grade plastic containers (like gallon milk jugs) with screw-on caps for storage. It is also important to note that you should add about 16 drops of bleach to each container before filling and capping.
Before storing your water, make sure to write the date on the containers so you can replace them once a year. If you feel that the quality of your stored water has been compromised for any reason, either discard it or boil the water before drinking it.
Keep a change of clothes on hand
During the aftermath of a natural disaster, things scan get pretty unpredictable and you never know what kind of situation you will have to face. For this reason, it’s important to have at least one ( 2 is preferred) extra outfit for each family member in your disaster kit. This will ensure both you and your loved ones will be clean and comfortable if you must leave your home unexpectedly. Also, if you have toddlers running around, include a 3 day supply of diapers as well.
Clean your home from the inside out
If anywhere in your home has been exposed to flood waters during or after the storm, it’s important that you clean and sanitize them properly. Begin the cleaning process in the kitchen, or where the food is being prepared and work outward into the rest of your home. Rinse hard surfaces with clean water to remove any visible residue, then wash the surface again with a combination of detergent and hot water. Once this is complete, rinse the area with potable water and let it air dry.
If you would like to sanitize the area as well, mix one capful of 5.25% household bleach or another sanitizing agent to each gallon of water. Unfortunately, soft surface likes cushions cannot be cleaned effectively and should be tossed out.
Important Considerations
Other preparations tips that you should note include:
** Don’t drink any water that you think may contaminated, even if it comes from the tap
** Wash your hands frequently
** Throw away any food that came in contact with contaminated water
** Protect your important documents
** Do not store your food outside
Their unpredictability and the damage that they can cause make natural disasters seem downright scary. But, even in the midst of all the uncertainty, there are ways to prepare and plan so that you and your family are protected during and after these types of events.
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