No Time to Lose: Preparing for an Emergency
Due to an emergency or a natural disaster, you may need to evacuate your home at a moment’s notice. When minutes count, you will need to have essential supplies prepared and ready to go in advance.
When "bug out" is the only option
Most city dwellers would prefer to ride out whatever emergency comes their way and stay in the perceived safety of their homes.
Home may feel like the safest place on earth, but there may be times when home is the most dangerous place to be (for example, gas leak, being in the path of a tornado, unsafe living conditions after an earthquake, etc). Because of this, you need to be ready to “bug out” – that is, leave as quickly as possible.
The Four Pillars of Survival
Keeping your loved ones safe and getting your family evacuated to a safe location is the priority. Many struggle with knowing what to bring or what not to bring, so here are some important concepts:
After 24 hours with no water (or less time in hot and humid conditions), the average adult will find himself or herself weakened and unable to function normally.
The average adult requires between 2,000 and 3,000 calories per day to function normally
You need protection from the elements, allowing you to maintain your body temperature.
When it comes to the security of your family and your home, your level of security requirements is going to be based upon the situation in which you find yourself.
Everything you bring should fall into one of the four categories listed above. You will need enough provisions to last 3 days for each person in your family.
Important: Don’t forget a 3-day supply of any prescription medications you will need during this time.
How To Pack Efficiently
All of your essentials must be carefully packed in go-bags (sling bags or 3-day packs). All family members will need their own bags to carry their necessities for the 3-day period.
Sling bags are helpful for carrying additional essentials (electronics, multi-tool, flashlight, extra batteries) and a 3-day pack to carry your clothing, food and first aid supplies.
In your 3-day pack, be sure to place light, compressible items toward the bottom; heavier items toward the center (to keep the weight balanced); and outerwear, first aid supplies, and toiletries towards the top.
What's Next?
Now that you know what to prepare, it’s now time to act! Start by gathering all of the supplies necessary for the 3-day period. Obtain your bags and pack them with your essential items.
Take your go-bags on a test run (a hike, walk or a short camping trip). Then evaluate how well your bags work or how well you have packed your items. Assess your inventory and consider what is truly essential—and, in addition, ensure no items are missing. Taking a First Aid Fundamentals course will ensure maximum preparedness in the case of a medical emergency.
Once you’ve put in the hard work of preparation, you will be confident knowing that you will not lose any time getting your loved ones to safety in an emergency.
