| As it is often the unfortunate case, it takes a | | | | Adding to the survival gear, a first aid kit is a |
| huge wake up call to get our act in gear. Things | | | | must for immediate medical attention. Gas masks |
| you know you should do, you don't as you think it | | | | and filters should also be in the emergency |
| is never going to happen. A case in point is | | | | disaster kit. Sleeping bags and thermal blankets will |
| emergency preparations for natural disasters. It is | | | | offer some comfort from the external elements. |
| only after one strikes expectantly that we find | | | | Pack extra batteries for flashlights and the radio. |
| fault in our municipal emergency preparations. | | | | Light sticks are also good for providing lighting |
| Politicians and head directors make excuses and | | | | along with alerting others of your location. Packing |
| pass the blame to others and promise to overhaul | | | | a whistle for this purpose is also recommended. |
| contingency plans but by that time it's too late. | | | | When you have your emergency disaster kit |
| During times of catastrophe, you must rely on | | | | prepared, have a talk with your family members. |
| yourself first and hold out until aid comes. | | | | Inform them of where it is located and of its |
| Ultimately, it's your responsibility to be the first line | | | | contents and how and when to use the supplies. |
| of defense. | | | | Having this talk is a good preparation step but |
| When one prepares an emergency disaster kit, | | | | there's nothing like hands on training. Take your |
| you need to cover for injuries, shelter, water, | | | | family on a camping trip and use the supplies first |
| lighting and communication. You also need to | | | | hand to teach them about survival training. In fact, |
| account for how many individuals you are packing | | | | it's always a good idea to review the expiry dates |
| for and calculate the amount of supplies you need. | | | | on the MREs and water supplies. By taking the |
| Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) are an ideal food | | | | family out yearly on this emergency preparation |
| source. They come in lightweight packages and | | | | exercise, it will ensure that the food and water |
| can sustain individuals for days. As for a water | | | | sources don't go to waste along with reinforcing |
| source, have immediate stored drinking water | | | | the survival training. Just don't forget to restock! |
| available. You will also need water filtration kits. | | | | Having an emergency disaster kit at home and |
| When water is restored to the disaster area, it | | | | knowing how to use it is a great feeling. You have |
| might be contaminated and that's when you need | | | | just done your best to ensure the greatest |
| water purification tablets or water filter pumps. | | | | chance of survival for yourself and your family. |