Top 15 Essential Items You Need for Disaster Preparedness and How to Use Them
In times of disaster—whether it’s a natural calamity, power outage, or civil unrest—being prepared can make the difference between survival and hardship. Here are the top 15 essential items you need to stay safe, along with tips on how to use them effectively during an emergency:
1. Water (1 gallon per person per day)
Use: Water is critical for hydration, cooking, and hygiene. Aim for at least three days’ worth per person. Use purification tablets or a water filtration system to treat questionable water sources if your supply runs low.
2. Non-perishable Food (3-day supply minimum)
Use: Packed foods that don’t require refrigeration or cooking, like canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruit. A manual can opener is essential for accessing canned foods. Consider high-calorie options like peanut butter to maintain energy levels.
3. First Aid Kit
Use: A well-stocked first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, gauze, tweezers, and medical tape. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid skills like cleaning wounds and performing CPR.
4. Flashlight & Extra Batteries
Use: Light is crucial for navigating dark spaces when power is lost. Hand-crank or solar-powered flashlights can be lifesavers if you run out of batteries. Keep one flashlight in each room or emergency kit.
5. Battery-powered or Hand-crank Radio
Use: In an emergency, communication lines may be down. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio will allow you to stay informed about weather updates and government instructions. Tune in to local emergency stations for real-time information.
6. Multi-tool (with pliers, screwdriver, and knife)
Use: A multi-tool is a versatile item that can assist in a range of tasks, from cutting fabric or rope to fixing broken equipment. Opt for one with multiple attachments like pliers, a screwdriver, and a knife.
7. Emergency Blankets (Mylar or Wool)
Use: These compact, heat-reflective blankets trap body heat and are excellent for preventing hypothermia. They’re also waterproof and windproof, making them useful for sheltering during storms or extreme temperatures.
8. Fire-starting Tools (Lighters, Matches, Fire Starters)
Use: Whether for warmth, cooking, or signaling for help, being able to start a fire is essential. Waterproof matches and lighters are must-haves. Keep them in a waterproof container, and practice fire-starting techniques ahead of time.
9. Portable Phone Charger (Solar or Hand-crank)
Use: Power banks and solar chargers will keep your devices charged when electricity is unavailable. Even if cell towers are down, your phone can be used for offline maps, documents, and emergency apps.
10. Personal Hygiene Items
Use: Items like toothbrushes, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and soap are vital for maintaining personal hygiene when water and sanitation services are unavailable. Wipes can also be a substitute for a shower in a pinch.
11. Dust Masks or N95 Respirators
Use: These masks protect against dust, smoke, and airborne particles in case of wildfires, debris, or disease outbreaks. N95 respirators provide added protection and can help reduce the inhalation of harmful pathogens.
12. Whistle
Use: In case you need to signal for help, a whistle can be heard from farther away than your voice. It’s especially useful if you’re trapped or isolated in an area where rescuers are searching.
13. Duct Tape & Plastic Sheeting
Use: These items are essential for creating makeshift shelters, covering broken windows, or sealing off areas from contamination by chemical or biological hazards. Duct tape can also be used for quick repairs on gear or clothing.
14. Cash (Small Bills)
Use: ATMs and electronic payment systems may be down in a disaster. Having cash on hand (especially small bills) ensures you can purchase necessities like food, gas, or supplies.
15. Map of the Area (With Pre-marked Evacuation Routes)
Use: GPS may fail during a disaster, so keep a paper map with marked routes to shelters, hospitals, and safe zones. Ensure every family member knows how to read the map and where to meet if separated.