VITAL RECORDS
Include in or near your 72-hour emergency kit copies of important, valuable, irreplaceable or cherished records. Keep these records in a waterproof and portable container with adequate desiccant (moisture absorbers). Conduct an inventory of your home, garage, premises, and place of business. Then make a written itemized list of the contents. Include serial numbers, make, model numbers, physical descriptions, where and when purchased, purchase price, and current estimated value. Attach receipts if you have them. Although it may seem like a daunting task, there are plenty of resources available to anyone for free on the internet to help you get past the overwhelming feeling of just getting started on a project of this size. Here is just one site I found that helps put things in perspective and gives you the tools you need to tackle the project: http://web.aces.uiuc.edu/vista/pdf_pubs/houseinv.pdf .
In some emergencies you may need to just grab-n-go with a few things beyond your 72-hour emergency kit. I recommend planning for several contingencies based on the time you have to evacuate and the way in which you leave. Many documents, such as computer files, genealogy, & photos today can be digitized and stored at internet storage sites. (Cox, now offers free internet storage for their customers. This saves having to photocopy many documents that you would otherwise need to carry with you.) The trusty bank safe-deposit box is still a very reliable place to keep valuables. Spending some time thinking about what you value and what you’d miss most if lost will guide you as you decide how to protect your belongings and valuables.
Another method of preserving documents is to purchase and install a fireproof, waterproof floor safe. This could be a pricy item, but may help solve the “prevent loss” dilemma of a number of your valuables and important documents.
Here is a checklist of documents and records you may need to consider preserving to prevent their loss following a disaster.
Academic records, transcripts Adoption or custody papers ATM card & PIN
Accounts receivable Information Automobile insurance documents Automobile registration, title
Awards, prizes Bank account passbooks Bank loan agreements, obligations
Biographies Birth certificates Bonds
Books (Important or Irreplaceable) Books of remembrance/Memory books Brokerage statements
Business & occupational licenses Business insurance Business records
Cash disbursements journal Cash receipt journals Certificates, awards
Charge-card information Checking account information Church records
Citizenship papers Collectibles Computer disks, software
Contracts Copyrights Correspondence
Court documents Credit or debit cards Credit reports
Death certificates Deeds Deed to cemetery lot
Debts Dental records Diaries
Diplomas Disability awards Divorce or separation decrees
Driver’s license Driving record Employee benefits records
Employment contract Employment paycheck stubs Employment records
Employment resumes Equities in stocks, mutual funds, treasuries, & corporate bonds Eyeglass prescriptions
Family histories Films/videos Funeral and burial plans –prearranged
Gas charge cards Genealogy Guarantees, warranties, sales receipts
Hazard insurance documents Health histories, medical records Health & hospitalization insurance documents
Home improvement receipts Home purchase or re-fi documents Home security codes
Immunization records Income property documents Inheritance documents
Insurance documents, ID Cards etc Investment account statements Investment portfolio
Jewelry appraisals Journals Keys, auto, RVs, etc.
Keys, house Keys, place of business Keys, safe-deposit box
Keys, miscellaneous Lease agreements Legal papers
Letter of instruction—in case of death Licenses Life insurance documents
Living wills Loans Long distance charge card & PIN
Major home improvement records Manuscripts Marriage certificate, license
Medicare/Medicaid/food stamp doc Medications/prescription records Membership cards, records
Memory albums Military papers Mortgage documents
Motor vehicle titles & VINs License plate numbers Names (full), DOB, SSN of all family
Net worth statement Paid loans documents Partnership(Business) documents
Passbook records (Savings accounts) Passports, Visas Patents
Payments on monthly bills & loans Pedigree charts for livestock & pets Pension plan documents
Personal history or autobiography Personal insurance (medical, disability, life, accident) Personal or family emergency and evacuation response plans (copy of)
Personal property loaned to others Phone numbers & addresses Photo of each family member (recent)
Photo inventory or video inventory Photograph of all valuables Photographs (slides, prints w/negatives, disks)
Precious metals investment record Promissory notes Property settlement agreements
Property tax records Purchase contracts Real estate property descriptions (financial, insurance)
Recipes (important or cherished) Record of hard assets Record of eyeglass prescriptions, medicine, allergies, immunizations
Religious records Retirement accounts Safe combinations
Safe-deposit box information Savings account number & address Savings CDs & account numbers
Scrapbooks Securities Selective service records/registration
Settlements Slides Social security cards/numbers/entitlements
Stocks Student loan records Tax records
Tax returns Title papers Trusts
Vacation home-ownership papers Vehicle/RV ownership papers Videos/films
Voter registration Wallet or purse contents (photocopy of) Website address information and contracts
Wills (& letters of instruction)
EMERGENCY CASH
An instant supply of emergency cash during or after a disaster is considered priceless. Returning home after evacuating may be, at the least, traumatic. Your home may have been swept away by raging torrents, covered by volcanic ash, destroyed by a violent tornado or hurricane, knocked off its foundation by a powerful earthquake, crushed by a wall of mud, or gutted by a devastating fire. In other words, your house may be uninhabitable. This would force you and your families to fend for yourselves until other provisions are made.
Having a ready supply of cash would help put you back on your feet and would permit you to obtain products and buy services you may be in desperate need of such as gasoline, lodging, food, ice, bottled water, and medical care. After a disaster, store merchants do not like to take personal checks and credit cards because they cannot verify them. CASH IS KING!!
CASH
• Currency—small bills (1s, 5s, 10s, 20s). $200 is a good minimal amount to start with. (Keep in a reclosable plastic bag or other waterproof container. Others recommend a minimum of $500.
• Pocket change. Include the following: one roll of each, quarters, dimes, nickels. (Coins can be placed in empty film canisters, or purchased in rolls from the bank.)
CHARGE CARDS (…if you use credit, otherwise, CASH, is best!)
• Duplicate charge cards
• Motor club cards
• ATM/Debit cards (which won’t work if the power is out)
• Gasoline Charge Cards
• Phone or Long Distance Charge Cards (check expiration dates on charge cards on an annual basis)
OTHER
• Spare wallet or purse
• Money belt
• Checkbook & register
• Check protection or guarantee card
• Money orders
• Traveler’s checks (in $50 or smaller checks)
• Bank information (include as name of institution, address, phone number, account numbers, bank official & loan officer phone numbers.)
• Spare keys (house, shed, padlocks, vehicles, safe deposit box, storage facilities, business, others) (Consider a key lock box stored in a hidden place.)
Note: College students should keep enough cash and necessary supplies on hand to be able to get home should an emergency develop.
MORALE BOOSTERS
Maintaining high morale is one of the single greatest factors in successfully coping with a major evacuation, emergency or disaster. Having a few diversionary items on hand will help to fortify a person’s mental, emotional and spiritual strength, especially is spending time in a public emergency shelter. Carefully selected diversion items will be your defense against despair and stress, brightening the mood and adding a sense of calmness and security. Recreational items can also help occupy long periods of time in which there may be very little to do.
While it is important to give some thought to entertaining children during the course of an emergency, parents should carefully consider which small toys and trinkets should be placed in a 72-hour kits. Several well-wrapped surprises keep children entertained for long periods, but one should be sure they are rationed out appropriately.
As soon as lifesaving measures are complete, the main focus should be on the emotional consequences of a disaster. Young children may not understand what has happened and may fear being left alone or abandoned. There may be a loss of cherished toys or security objects. In addition, there may be insufficient diapers or clean clothing, and sanitary conditions may be inadequate, causing stress and discomfort.
Use the following for ideas to include in your emergency plans. Again, make contingency plans.
Car travel games Card games Portable music player & batteries
Child’s favorite book Children’s workbook Colored construction paper
Colored pencils & sharpener Coloring books & crayons Crafts
Dominos Etch-a-sketch (mini-type) Favorite teddy bear
Security blanket Flannel board stories Quiet books
Flash cards Frisbee (large or mini) Game books
Harmonica (or other small instrument) Hobby materials Hymn book
Inflatable beach ball Journal/notebook Jump rope
Lap games Magazines Matchbox cars
Math & spelling games Needlework Newspaper
Pacifiers Pair of paper safety scissors Paper dolls
Paper paste or glue or glue stick Paper Paperback books/novel
Pencils Picture games Pocket camera
Pocket computer games & batteries Pocket sized games (chess, checkers, cribbage etc.) Pocket-sized TV
Puppets Puzzles Rattles
Rubber, plastic or foam ball Rubik’s Cube Scriptures/Bible
Small play toys Small wooden or plastic blocks Softball
Songbook Squirt guns Story books
Teethers MP3 player w/ headphones Watercolor paint set
Word games Yo-yo
HELPFUL REMINDERS
Following is a list of tips and hints. Hopefully, these reminders will further help families make emergency kits that are useful, reliable, and fit the needs of each family member.
1. Your individual or family 72-hour emergency kit(s) should be placed in a location that is safe, convenient, and known to all members of your family. It should be placed where it can be picked up quickly at a moment’s notice, preferably near an exit on the ground floor or near a window, such as in a closet near your front door or in your garage. The location should be cool, dry, dark, and up off the floor if possible. Try to avoid extremes in temperature.
2. You should have nearby for easy access a waterproof and fire-resistant container of your family’s most valuable personal documents, priceless photographs, etc.
3. Outside your 72-hour emergency kit, attach written directions for shutting off home utilities (water, gas, electricity). It is important to instruct members of your family how to turn off water, heat, and electricity sources. This will help protect the home from backlash effects that often accompany a disaster.
4. Your family’s emergency and evacuation response/plan should be attached to or nearby your 72-hour emergency kit.
5. Make a laminated master list of your kit’s contents, the location of various items, and instructions for the use of specific or unfamiliar items, and attach this list to the outside of your kit. Each family member should take notes on the emergency kit’s items and their uses. This will mentally reinforce recall when various items are needed.
6. Make an “if time and room allows” list of last-minute items to include when evacuating, and post this list near an exit in your home or attach the list to your kit. You may want to include precious items such as heirlooms, paintings, souvenirs, prized collections or other treasured items. These can be placed in your car it time, conditions and room allow.
7. Likewise, make a list of all items in daily use that need to be gathered up at the last minute that are not presently included in your emergency kit.
8. Small quantities of emergency supplies should be adequate for at least 72-hours. Additionally, a two-week home supply is highly recommended as a minimum reserve of water, food, fuel, medicine, and other consumables.
9. Have your 72-hour emergency kit(s) with you. That means keep a kit in your automobile. If you are single or are an older couple, there’s a good chance that where your automobile is, that’s where you are. And chances are that you won’t be home when disaster strikes.
10. A smaller, miniature version of your 72-hour emergency kit and first-aid kit should be placed in the trunk of your car for long trips.
11. Remember, most disasters occur when family members are separated. Seventy percent of the time, women will be away from their homes and family when a disaster occurs.
12. Inform babysitters where the 72-hour emergency kit and first-aid kits are located.
13. Your 72-hour emergency kit will need to be individualized according to your personal needs and your family’s situation. Be sure to keep in mind such things as your family’s size, your climate, and potential emergency situations likely to happen in your area, such as flooding or earthquakes. Try to project possible needs under various emergency conditions. Also, consider the health and age of each family member. It may limit how much an individual is able to carry or pack, and may also limit how far an individual may travel on foot. Additionally, don’t necessarily count on having a car to pack everything around in during an emergency.
14. Highlight those items you would like to include in your 72-hour emergency kit, then when you actually start gathering the items, simply check them off to show you have taken care of a particular item.
15. All items or groups of items should first be placed in air tight and water-resistant reclosable, heavy-duty plastic bags. These bags will organize and protect items, and will prevent liquids from spilling on other items in your kit.
16. You may want to color-code various sections of your kit according to function (such as first-aid, light, communications, food, etc.)
17. Try not to include glass bottles of any type in your kits. They only add more weight and are breakable.
18. If possible, try to obtain small trial-size or sample size containers of various items.
19. Film canisters (harder to find, now-a-days) are great containers for small items, such as matches, medications, safety pins, etc. They are airtight and water-resistant. Use self-sticking labels to identify the contents.
20. Try to avoid expensive or exotic items. Instead, use ordinary, everyday items found around your home whenever possible. You can upgrade your kit when your budget allows.
21. To assemble supplies economically, make an effort to pool your resources with those of neighbors, friends, relatives, and church groups.
22. Make a label to be sewn or attached to the outside or inside (if concerned about identity protection) of your kit using an indelible marker or pen. You may want to include the following, especially on children’s kits: name, names of parents; home address; phone number; birth date; person to notify in emergency, name of close friend, neighbor, or relative; blood-type, allergies, and serious medical conditions; etc. A luggage tag may work too.
23. Rethink your 72-hour emergency kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, food, water, medications, and other perishable items, and reevaluate clothing sizes.
24. Remember individuals with special needs such as infants, toddlers, invalids, the chronically ill, the blind, the disabled, and the elderly.
25. Do not test your preparedness kit by going camping with it for 72 hours. Doing this only depletes your supplies, disorganizes items, and puts you in a state of un-readiness should an actual need arise.
26. IMPORTANT: Acquire and maintain at least a one-year supply of food, clothing, and fuel, such as wood or coal, and a two-week supply of safe drinking water, and other basic commodities. A year’s supply of family necessities will increase self-reliance and help provide for non-evacuation emergencies such as financial stress, loss of employment, food shortages, and the absence of commercially available products for an extended period of time. Having a year’s supply also allows you the flexibility to wait for good sales through the year to restock, thereby saving considerable money.
27. Don’t count on having a car, a functioning gas station, or accessible roads to leave an emergency area. Emergencies may occur on holidays, weekends, or perhaps in the middle of the night when gas stations are not likely to be open. Gas pumps do not function without electricity, which is usually the first service to be disrupted in a disaster. Always maintain your car in good working order with the gas tank at least ¾ full at all times.
28. Your family should discuss orderly and efficient evacuation of their home so that if a disaster occurs, they will be prepared to evacuate immediately.
29. Each family member should know where to go, what to take, and for whom he or she is responsible, such as a younger brother or sister.
30. At least twice a year have a meeting with your family to discuss and update your family-emergency plan and determine what training, equipment, and supplies are needed. Occasional drills will assure quick reaction and avoid injury and panic in an emergency. Share your plan with neighbors, friends, relatives and co-workers.
31. Minimize detailed planning in your emergency plan. A written plan should be brief. Emergency procedures should be clarified in periodic, suitable training sessions rather than through lengthy written documents.
32. Know the daily schedule of each member of your family and make sure they know your schedule.
33. Be able to locate the heaviest furniture and appliances in your home from the floor below.
34. Plan ways to relieve people with special skills of their family duties during emergencies so they can use their skills to help others.
35. Each child should know his or her full name, address, telephone number, and the full name of his or her parents.
36. Every family member should have a fire safety program to teach family members how to prevent fires and how to reach the fire department in case one occurs in your home.
37. All children four years of age and older should be trained to use 9-1-1, the emergency phone number. In this training, they should know how to
• Dial 911.
• Tell the operator what the problem is.
• Tell what your address is.
38. Organize a daily check-in for children who stay alone. Find suitable back-up people to whom your child can turn in an emergency. Think about who in the neighborhood is usually home in the afternoon. Make sure your child knows he or she is welcome to call on the back-up people for help.
39. Make sure a duplicate copy of your family’s emergency and evacuation plan is in each child’s 72-hour emergency kit. Each child should be familiar with important information, names, and phone numbers the plan contains.
40. One area children can actively participate in is helping to assemble the individual and family 72-hour kits. Don’t forget, children can pack books, puzzles, and games to help them pass the time if you must leave your home for another shelter. Make sure your children know how to use each item in the kit.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
November 2008
Hi Preparedness Group,
Attached is the handout for the last class. Thanks so much, Janna, for putting this together!
Thank you everyone, for coming to our Preparedness Classes over the last 7 months. I hope these meetings and handouts have been helpful to everyone and that you have been able to make some good progress this year on your family's emergency preparedness supplies/plans. We've now covered all the topics needed to get our 72 hour emergency kits together.
Thank you, Janna & April, for teaching the last few months of classes. It was great to learn from your experience. Thank you, Stephanie & April, for letting us use your homes for the classes.
Keep up the great work and keep working on those emergency and food storage goals!
Have a great day.
Debbie
Attached is the handout for the last class. Thanks so much, Janna, for putting this together!
Thank you everyone, for coming to our Preparedness Classes over the last 7 months. I hope these meetings and handouts have been helpful to everyone and that you have been able to make some good progress this year on your family's emergency preparedness supplies/plans. We've now covered all the topics needed to get our 72 hour emergency kits together.
Thank you, Janna & April, for teaching the last few months of classes. It was great to learn from your experience. Thank you, Stephanie & April, for letting us use your homes for the classes.
Keep up the great work and keep working on those emergency and food storage goals!
Have a great day.
Debbie
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Personal Care, Sanitation, Tools, Car Kits, Infant & Toddler Needs
Personal Care & Sanitation
Sanitation can be a monumental problem and turn into a living nightmare if advanced preparations have not been made prior to an emergency.
Home plumbing may not function as a result of disrupted water and sewage lines due to freezing, flooding, or other adverse circumstances. Without running water, the problem of sanitation and personal hygiene is immediate and acute.
When planning for sanitation needs during a time of emergency, there are two primary requirements individuals and families must prepare for: 1) the establishment of a supply of drinkable water, or the means of purifying water, and 2) the establishment of toilet facilities and provisions for the associated waste removal and disposal.
Right after an emergency, or during one, you will probably not have the time and tools to prepare a complex emergency sanitation system. If there is a delay of several days in restoring sewage service to your neighborhood, you may find that disposal is a big problem. Your first task is to make some temporary toilet provision for your family, especially the children. Almost any covered metal or plastic container will do. You can use a covered pail, a 5-gallon bucket, or a small kitchen garbage container with a foot operated cover for an emergency toilet. Anything that has a cover and will hold the contents until you can dispose of them will serve for sanitary purposes at first.
How to convert a flush toilet into an emergency toilet or build a makeshift toilet.
1. Line the inside of a toilet bowl, 5 gallon pail, or another appropriately sized waste container with two heavy-duty plastic garbage bags. Make a toilet seat out of two boards placed parallel to each other across the bucket. An old toilet seat will also work. Or purchase a toilet seat that fits onto a 5-gallon bucket from a camping store or emergency preparedness retailer.
2. Place kitty litter, fireplace ashes, or sawdust into the bottom of the bags.
3. At the end of each day, the bagged waste should be securely tied and removed to a protected location such as a garage, basement, outbuilding, and so on, until a safe disposal option is available. Having a dedicated waste container for this purpose may be a good idea.
4. After each use, pour a disinfectant such as bleach into the container to avoid infection and spreading of disease. Cover the container tightly when not in use.
5. Residents may dispose of the waste in a properly functioning public sewer, or septic system, or they may bury the waste on their own property. Bury garbage and human wastes in the ground to avoid the spread of disease by rats and insects. Dig a pit two to three feet deep and at least 50 feet from any well, spring or water supply. LOCAL REGULATIONS MAY PROHIBIT YOU FROM BURYING HUMAN WASTES. LISTEN TO THE RADIO FOR INSTRUCTIONS, OR CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT. If the garbage cannot be buried immediately, strain the liquids into the emergency toilet, wrap the residue in several layers of newspapers and store it in a large can with a tight-fitting lid. After two or three days, place the can outside until it can be buried. The best choice for a disinfectant is a solution of one part liquid chlorine bleach to ten parts of water.
Emergency Toilet and Sanitation Supplies
o Portable Chemical Camping Toilet
o 5 or 6-gallon bucket with a handle and tight fitting lid.
o Garbage can liners, heavy duty, twist ties; or “Double Duty” toilet liners & enzymes
o Metal Garbage Can (10-gallon capacity, for storage of waste until you can bury or dispose of it.)
o Liquid Bleach
o Enzyme Deodorant Packets
o Baking Soda (to help neutralize and eliminate odors)
o Toilet Paper
o Feminine Hygiene Supplies
o Toilet Seat Covers
o Length of black plastic to help construct a privacy screen or shelter
o Waterproof rubber gloves
o Spray disinfectant/deodorizer
o Portable folding shovel
o Liquid/Gel Sanitizer (like GermX or Purell)
Keeping Clean
o Instant Hand Sanitizer Gel
o Bar Soap or Camper’s All-purpose Biodegradable Liquid Soap
o Plastic Wash Basin (that fits into your plastic 5-gal. bucket, serves as a basin; an empty 1-gal. ice-cream container is perfect.)
o Wash Cloth
o Bath-sized towel
o Pre-moistened Towelettes
o Shampoo (trial size)
o Shaving Kit
o Toothbrushes
o Items like: mouthwasth, denture cream, powder, cleanser, dental floss
o Spray bottle (can be used as a makeshift shower, especially for small children)
o Rubbing Alcohol
o Bleach & Laundry Detergent (powdered form, small vendor box—buy at a laundry mat)
o Paper towels (keep them dry in a plastic bag)
o Scrubbing sponge
o Liquid dish detergent
Items for Small Children
o Baby lotion
o Baby Powders
o Diaper Ointment
o Disposable Diapers
o Nursing Needs
o Special Bedding
Other Personal Care & Comfort Items
Camping mirror, clothes pins, comb, cotton balls, deodorant stick, dust mask, earplugs, extra pair of contact lenses with solution, extra pair of prescription glasses, foot powder, hair products, hairbrush, hand lotion, insect repellent, Kleenex tissue, lip balm, nail clippers, disposable razor, cotton-tipped applicators, reclosable plastic bag, shaving cream, sun block/cream, toothpicks, Vaseline.
TOOLS/REPAIR KIT
The objective of a repair kit is to have various materials on hand to make emergency repairs. Think of it as a “first-aid kit” for your 72-hour emergency kit items. These repair items may also come in handy for making emergency repairs around home, if needed.
Include only a small quantity of each of the items so you will be able to include a wider variety of repair materials. This way your repair kit will be compact and lightweight. Repair items can be placed in containers having several separate enclosures, built-in dividers, or compartments.
o Bungee Elastic Cords or Rubber Tie-downs
o Dental Floss
o Foil, Aluminum (can be used as an emergency insole or to keep tinder dry, or as a windbreak for a small fire. Many more uses.
o Garbage bags (heavy-duty, 32-gallon size)
o Glue, instant
o Hardware (assorted nails, tacks, screws, bolts, nuts, washers, snap-hooks, etc.)
o Knife (Multi-tool, multi-blade, multi-function Swiss-type, with honing kit, stone & oil for sharpening knife)
o Laces
o Latex gloves, pair
o Pins, safety (for repairs, pinning fabric or clothing, replacing buttons, securing shelter to rope, etc.)
o Plastic bags (assorted, reclosable type)
o Pliers, small pair (adjustable with wire cutter: many uses, including undoing knots in rope to pulling tent pegs.)
o Rope, nylon (50-feet) – Makeshift clothesline, construction of shelter, many repair uses.
o Rubber bands (assorted, heavy duty)
o Scissors, small pair
o Screwdriver set, small and compact
o Sewing kit (pocket size) - - Containing needles, pins, seam ripper, thread, thimble, buttons, small scissors, paper tape measure)
o String (heavy-duty cotton or nylon)
o Duct Tape, and Gaffer’s Tape (Black stage tape) – Multiple uses including emergency bandage tape, tent repair, clothing repair, and many, many more uses.
o Tape, electrical
o Tool set, small & compact
o Wire (length of both heavy and lightweight; all purpose type)
o Wrench (small, adjustable crescent type)
o GAS SHUTOFF WRENCH
AUTO EMERGENCY KIT
Disasters don't just happen when we are at home so be prepared when you are on the road. Plan on creating a kit for each vehicle you own. There are many items you could include in your kit, but below are probably the most essential. Add to it and customize for your needs and for the season of weather.
Survival:
o 1 Back Pack Carry Bag
o 2 Gloves (1 Pair)
o 2 Dust Masks
o 2 Emergency Food Bricks or MRE’s
o 20 Drinking Water Packets or water for two to three days
o 1 2-gal Water Bag or Water Container
o 1 32-oz Water Bottle
o 1 Hand-charged Flashlight
o 1 AM/FM Radio w/ Head Phones
o 2 Batteries
o 2 Hand Warmer Packets
o 2 Reflective Emergency Blankets
o 2 Emergency Candles
o 2 Emergency Ponchos
o 1 Box Waterproof Matches
o 1 Emergency Whistle
o 1 or more Light Stick(s)
Tools & Miscellaneous:
o 1 Folding Saw
o 1 Multifunctional Tool
o 1 Hammer w/ Tools In Handle
o 1 Phillips Screw Driver
o 1 Standard Screw Driver
o 10 Cable Ties
o 1 Folding Shovel w/ Sheath
o 1 Roll Duct Tape
o 1 PVC Tape
o 4 Plastic Moisture Resistant Containers
o 3 Trash Bags
o Crow bar
o Ice scraper
First Aid & Personal Items:
o First Aid Kit
o 1 Instant Cold Pack
o 1 Reading Light
o 4 Sanitary Pads or your preference
o 2 Tissue Packs, Toilet Paper
o 1 Hand Sanitizer
o 1 Shampoo
o 1 Conditioner
o 1 Shower Gel
o 1 Lotion
o 2 Dental Kits
o 1 Shave Kit
o Essential medications, extra eyeglasses
o Cap, gloves, scarf
Documents, Cash, & Written Materials
o $100 - $200 in cash, small bills, and a roll of quarters and dimes
o Accident report form
o Auto insurance card w/ 24-hr. phone number
o Car owner’s manual
o Car registration
o Car repair handbook
o Checkbook
o Copy of your Family’s Emergency & Evacuation Plan
o Driver’s license
o Emergency Phone Numbers
o First Aid, Emergency Preparedness handbooks
o Maps – Up-to-date local, state and national road maps.
o Spare major credit card or ATM card
INFANT & TODDLER NEEDS
Babies and toddlers have very specific nutritional needs and their kits should be custom-designed for them. So, here are the basics of what should be in every baby 72 hour kit:
Water
Formula
Bottles
Jarred baby food and snacks, finger foods
Disposable diapers
Wipes
Change of clothing
Blanket
Infant medication
Sling for carrying baby
Diaper rash ointment
Soap for bathing and laundry
Thermometer
Pacifier
Contact Info
Favorite things: book, toy, blanket
There may be lots of moms out there who nurse their babies who are thinking, “I don’t need to have formula if I am breastfeeding.” That may be true, but it is better to be preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. What if you didn’t have enough to drink and were unable to produce enough milk? What if you were separated from your baby? By having water, formula, and bottles on hand, you can know that the nutritional needs of your baby will be met.
There are also people out there who use cloth diapers. So, why recommend disposables? In emergency situations, you are dealing with limited time and resources. While I think it is a good idea to keep some cloth diapers in your kit, there is no guarantee that you will have a place to store, wash, and dry cloth diapers. Plan to keep a minimum of 3 days worth of disposables in your infant kit.
I also like to keep an infant fever reducer in my infant kit in case my child is teething or fighting a fever. A sling can be helpful if you are required to carry your baby and are unable to use a stroller. A sling can be a lifesaver for your back and arms. It is also important to consider the emotional needs of your baby. Does she sleep with a stuffed animal or read a certain book before naptime? By providing your baby with comfort items, you can make a difficult experience much easier to deal with.
Toddlers
There are many similarities in caring for infants and children and in caring for adults in a disaster period. Similar needs are present for water, food, warmth, and shelter, though extra precautions should be taken for children. Essential needs include keeping children dry, clean, and warm; eating at regular intervals; establishing a routine that will help to make children feel more secure; and always trying to keep families together in a disaster situation. The emotional and psychological challenges children of all ages are likely to face is of particular concern.
Remember to rotate the items in an infant kit/toddler kit regularly, at least twice a year, since babies and toddlers grow so quickly. Keep pace with diaper sizes and clothing sizes.
This list is in no way exhaustive. Please customize and add according to your child’s needs.
Sugared Cereals (in small boxes or packets in reclosable plastic bags)
Cereals, instant, container
Formula, water, bottles, etc…
Vitamins
Baby spoon
Sippy-cup
Comfort blanket(s)/small sleeping bag or bedroll
2 Changes of clothes, socks, underwear, shoes
Plan clothes for seasonal needs, include cap, coat, jacket, mittens, etc…
Diapers/Pull-ups (figure 8-12 diapers a day for at least 3 days)
Plastic garbage can liners (used to contain soiled diapers)
Diaper/Baby wipes, ointments/powders
Plastic or rubber pants (two pair)
Flashlight or light sticks
Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer gel/lotion
Spray Water bottle
Toiletries (lotion, powder, bath towel, comb, shampoo, soap, washcloth, toothbrush, etc.)
Medications, OTC remedies
Whistle
Contact Information
Toy, comfort items
Sanitation can be a monumental problem and turn into a living nightmare if advanced preparations have not been made prior to an emergency.
Home plumbing may not function as a result of disrupted water and sewage lines due to freezing, flooding, or other adverse circumstances. Without running water, the problem of sanitation and personal hygiene is immediate and acute.
When planning for sanitation needs during a time of emergency, there are two primary requirements individuals and families must prepare for: 1) the establishment of a supply of drinkable water, or the means of purifying water, and 2) the establishment of toilet facilities and provisions for the associated waste removal and disposal.
Right after an emergency, or during one, you will probably not have the time and tools to prepare a complex emergency sanitation system. If there is a delay of several days in restoring sewage service to your neighborhood, you may find that disposal is a big problem. Your first task is to make some temporary toilet provision for your family, especially the children. Almost any covered metal or plastic container will do. You can use a covered pail, a 5-gallon bucket, or a small kitchen garbage container with a foot operated cover for an emergency toilet. Anything that has a cover and will hold the contents until you can dispose of them will serve for sanitary purposes at first.
How to convert a flush toilet into an emergency toilet or build a makeshift toilet.
1. Line the inside of a toilet bowl, 5 gallon pail, or another appropriately sized waste container with two heavy-duty plastic garbage bags. Make a toilet seat out of two boards placed parallel to each other across the bucket. An old toilet seat will also work. Or purchase a toilet seat that fits onto a 5-gallon bucket from a camping store or emergency preparedness retailer.
2. Place kitty litter, fireplace ashes, or sawdust into the bottom of the bags.
3. At the end of each day, the bagged waste should be securely tied and removed to a protected location such as a garage, basement, outbuilding, and so on, until a safe disposal option is available. Having a dedicated waste container for this purpose may be a good idea.
4. After each use, pour a disinfectant such as bleach into the container to avoid infection and spreading of disease. Cover the container tightly when not in use.
5. Residents may dispose of the waste in a properly functioning public sewer, or septic system, or they may bury the waste on their own property. Bury garbage and human wastes in the ground to avoid the spread of disease by rats and insects. Dig a pit two to three feet deep and at least 50 feet from any well, spring or water supply. LOCAL REGULATIONS MAY PROHIBIT YOU FROM BURYING HUMAN WASTES. LISTEN TO THE RADIO FOR INSTRUCTIONS, OR CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT. If the garbage cannot be buried immediately, strain the liquids into the emergency toilet, wrap the residue in several layers of newspapers and store it in a large can with a tight-fitting lid. After two or three days, place the can outside until it can be buried. The best choice for a disinfectant is a solution of one part liquid chlorine bleach to ten parts of water.
Emergency Toilet and Sanitation Supplies
o Portable Chemical Camping Toilet
o 5 or 6-gallon bucket with a handle and tight fitting lid.
o Garbage can liners, heavy duty, twist ties; or “Double Duty” toilet liners & enzymes
o Metal Garbage Can (10-gallon capacity, for storage of waste until you can bury or dispose of it.)
o Liquid Bleach
o Enzyme Deodorant Packets
o Baking Soda (to help neutralize and eliminate odors)
o Toilet Paper
o Feminine Hygiene Supplies
o Toilet Seat Covers
o Length of black plastic to help construct a privacy screen or shelter
o Waterproof rubber gloves
o Spray disinfectant/deodorizer
o Portable folding shovel
o Liquid/Gel Sanitizer (like GermX or Purell)
Keeping Clean
o Instant Hand Sanitizer Gel
o Bar Soap or Camper’s All-purpose Biodegradable Liquid Soap
o Plastic Wash Basin (that fits into your plastic 5-gal. bucket, serves as a basin; an empty 1-gal. ice-cream container is perfect.)
o Wash Cloth
o Bath-sized towel
o Pre-moistened Towelettes
o Shampoo (trial size)
o Shaving Kit
o Toothbrushes
o Items like: mouthwasth, denture cream, powder, cleanser, dental floss
o Spray bottle (can be used as a makeshift shower, especially for small children)
o Rubbing Alcohol
o Bleach & Laundry Detergent (powdered form, small vendor box—buy at a laundry mat)
o Paper towels (keep them dry in a plastic bag)
o Scrubbing sponge
o Liquid dish detergent
Items for Small Children
o Baby lotion
o Baby Powders
o Diaper Ointment
o Disposable Diapers
o Nursing Needs
o Special Bedding
Other Personal Care & Comfort Items
Camping mirror, clothes pins, comb, cotton balls, deodorant stick, dust mask, earplugs, extra pair of contact lenses with solution, extra pair of prescription glasses, foot powder, hair products, hairbrush, hand lotion, insect repellent, Kleenex tissue, lip balm, nail clippers, disposable razor, cotton-tipped applicators, reclosable plastic bag, shaving cream, sun block/cream, toothpicks, Vaseline.
TOOLS/REPAIR KIT
The objective of a repair kit is to have various materials on hand to make emergency repairs. Think of it as a “first-aid kit” for your 72-hour emergency kit items. These repair items may also come in handy for making emergency repairs around home, if needed.
Include only a small quantity of each of the items so you will be able to include a wider variety of repair materials. This way your repair kit will be compact and lightweight. Repair items can be placed in containers having several separate enclosures, built-in dividers, or compartments.
o Bungee Elastic Cords or Rubber Tie-downs
o Dental Floss
o Foil, Aluminum (can be used as an emergency insole or to keep tinder dry, or as a windbreak for a small fire. Many more uses.
o Garbage bags (heavy-duty, 32-gallon size)
o Glue, instant
o Hardware (assorted nails, tacks, screws, bolts, nuts, washers, snap-hooks, etc.)
o Knife (Multi-tool, multi-blade, multi-function Swiss-type, with honing kit, stone & oil for sharpening knife)
o Laces
o Latex gloves, pair
o Pins, safety (for repairs, pinning fabric or clothing, replacing buttons, securing shelter to rope, etc.)
o Plastic bags (assorted, reclosable type)
o Pliers, small pair (adjustable with wire cutter: many uses, including undoing knots in rope to pulling tent pegs.)
o Rope, nylon (50-feet) – Makeshift clothesline, construction of shelter, many repair uses.
o Rubber bands (assorted, heavy duty)
o Scissors, small pair
o Screwdriver set, small and compact
o Sewing kit (pocket size) - - Containing needles, pins, seam ripper, thread, thimble, buttons, small scissors, paper tape measure)
o String (heavy-duty cotton or nylon)
o Duct Tape, and Gaffer’s Tape (Black stage tape) – Multiple uses including emergency bandage tape, tent repair, clothing repair, and many, many more uses.
o Tape, electrical
o Tool set, small & compact
o Wire (length of both heavy and lightweight; all purpose type)
o Wrench (small, adjustable crescent type)
o GAS SHUTOFF WRENCH
AUTO EMERGENCY KIT
Disasters don't just happen when we are at home so be prepared when you are on the road. Plan on creating a kit for each vehicle you own. There are many items you could include in your kit, but below are probably the most essential. Add to it and customize for your needs and for the season of weather.
Survival:
o 1 Back Pack Carry Bag
o 2 Gloves (1 Pair)
o 2 Dust Masks
o 2 Emergency Food Bricks or MRE’s
o 20 Drinking Water Packets or water for two to three days
o 1 2-gal Water Bag or Water Container
o 1 32-oz Water Bottle
o 1 Hand-charged Flashlight
o 1 AM/FM Radio w/ Head Phones
o 2 Batteries
o 2 Hand Warmer Packets
o 2 Reflective Emergency Blankets
o 2 Emergency Candles
o 2 Emergency Ponchos
o 1 Box Waterproof Matches
o 1 Emergency Whistle
o 1 or more Light Stick(s)
Tools & Miscellaneous:
o 1 Folding Saw
o 1 Multifunctional Tool
o 1 Hammer w/ Tools In Handle
o 1 Phillips Screw Driver
o 1 Standard Screw Driver
o 10 Cable Ties
o 1 Folding Shovel w/ Sheath
o 1 Roll Duct Tape
o 1 PVC Tape
o 4 Plastic Moisture Resistant Containers
o 3 Trash Bags
o Crow bar
o Ice scraper
First Aid & Personal Items:
o First Aid Kit
o 1 Instant Cold Pack
o 1 Reading Light
o 4 Sanitary Pads or your preference
o 2 Tissue Packs, Toilet Paper
o 1 Hand Sanitizer
o 1 Shampoo
o 1 Conditioner
o 1 Shower Gel
o 1 Lotion
o 2 Dental Kits
o 1 Shave Kit
o Essential medications, extra eyeglasses
o Cap, gloves, scarf
Documents, Cash, & Written Materials
o $100 - $200 in cash, small bills, and a roll of quarters and dimes
o Accident report form
o Auto insurance card w/ 24-hr. phone number
o Car owner’s manual
o Car registration
o Car repair handbook
o Checkbook
o Copy of your Family’s Emergency & Evacuation Plan
o Driver’s license
o Emergency Phone Numbers
o First Aid, Emergency Preparedness handbooks
o Maps – Up-to-date local, state and national road maps.
o Spare major credit card or ATM card
INFANT & TODDLER NEEDS
Babies and toddlers have very specific nutritional needs and their kits should be custom-designed for them. So, here are the basics of what should be in every baby 72 hour kit:
Water
Formula
Bottles
Jarred baby food and snacks, finger foods
Disposable diapers
Wipes
Change of clothing
Blanket
Infant medication
Sling for carrying baby
Diaper rash ointment
Soap for bathing and laundry
Thermometer
Pacifier
Contact Info
Favorite things: book, toy, blanket
There may be lots of moms out there who nurse their babies who are thinking, “I don’t need to have formula if I am breastfeeding.” That may be true, but it is better to be preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. What if you didn’t have enough to drink and were unable to produce enough milk? What if you were separated from your baby? By having water, formula, and bottles on hand, you can know that the nutritional needs of your baby will be met.
There are also people out there who use cloth diapers. So, why recommend disposables? In emergency situations, you are dealing with limited time and resources. While I think it is a good idea to keep some cloth diapers in your kit, there is no guarantee that you will have a place to store, wash, and dry cloth diapers. Plan to keep a minimum of 3 days worth of disposables in your infant kit.
I also like to keep an infant fever reducer in my infant kit in case my child is teething or fighting a fever. A sling can be helpful if you are required to carry your baby and are unable to use a stroller. A sling can be a lifesaver for your back and arms. It is also important to consider the emotional needs of your baby. Does she sleep with a stuffed animal or read a certain book before naptime? By providing your baby with comfort items, you can make a difficult experience much easier to deal with.
Toddlers
There are many similarities in caring for infants and children and in caring for adults in a disaster period. Similar needs are present for water, food, warmth, and shelter, though extra precautions should be taken for children. Essential needs include keeping children dry, clean, and warm; eating at regular intervals; establishing a routine that will help to make children feel more secure; and always trying to keep families together in a disaster situation. The emotional and psychological challenges children of all ages are likely to face is of particular concern.
Remember to rotate the items in an infant kit/toddler kit regularly, at least twice a year, since babies and toddlers grow so quickly. Keep pace with diaper sizes and clothing sizes.
This list is in no way exhaustive. Please customize and add according to your child’s needs.
Sugared Cereals (in small boxes or packets in reclosable plastic bags)
Cereals, instant, container
Formula, water, bottles, etc…
Vitamins
Baby spoon
Sippy-cup
Comfort blanket(s)/small sleeping bag or bedroll
2 Changes of clothes, socks, underwear, shoes
Plan clothes for seasonal needs, include cap, coat, jacket, mittens, etc…
Diapers/Pull-ups (figure 8-12 diapers a day for at least 3 days)
Plastic garbage can liners (used to contain soiled diapers)
Diaper/Baby wipes, ointments/powders
Plastic or rubber pants (two pair)
Flashlight or light sticks
Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer gel/lotion
Spray Water bottle
Toiletries (lotion, powder, bath towel, comb, shampoo, soap, washcloth, toothbrush, etc.)
Medications, OTC remedies
Whistle
Contact Information
Toy, comfort items
October 2008
Hi Preparedness Group,
Here are the notes from October's Emergency Prep class on Sanitation, Tools, extra kits, etc.
Thanks, Janna, for teaching the class and putting the notes together for all of us!
Debbie
P.S. Our final Preparedness Class will be on the 18th of this month (10am at the Stephanie's and 7pm at Janna's). We will be covering important "Documents and Entertainment Items" for our 72 hour kits. Janna will also be teaching this class. So mark your calendars!
Here are the notes from October's Emergency Prep class on Sanitation, Tools, extra kits, etc.
Thanks, Janna, for teaching the class and putting the notes together for all of us!
Debbie
P.S. Our final Preparedness Class will be on the 18th of this month (10am at the Stephanie's and 7pm at Janna's). We will be covering important "Documents and Entertainment Items" for our 72 hour kits. Janna will also be teaching this class. So mark your calendars!
Shelter, Protection, and Bedding
Shelter, Protection, and Bedding
No matter the emergency situation, it is important to keep ourselves and our families safe and protected from the elements, including: rain, wind, snow, fog, sun, heat and lightening. We may need to find our protection out in the elements, or in our own home. There are many ways to keep us sheltered.
Be aware of you surroundings. If possible, your home can be a shelter. In a disaster situation, debris from homes and buildings (walls, doors, concrete, furniture etc.) can be used. In the winter, snow caves or ditches can create an environment up to 20 degrees warmer than the outside air. Branches, limbs, and leaves can be used to protect from wind, rain, or sun. Large rocks and cliffs can provide small areas of safety.
Tents: Tents can provide a safe place out of the wind and rain. Tents are mobile and can be set up in your own yard, far away from the rubble, or in or near shelter. Find a tent that is the right size for you and your family. Keep in mind a dome tent that does not need to be staked into the ground can be set up indoors to provide privacy for your family in a public place. Make sure you know how to set up the tent before you are required to us it.
Tarps: This can be a heavy ground cloth, plastic sheeting or tarp. A tarp can be used to provide overhead shade, a tent, a lean-to, ground covering, waterproofing. A tarp with grommets (small reinforced holes) and a rope can be tied to trees, buildings, etc.
Garbage bags, rain ponchos, emergency blankets: These can be used to block wind, or wrapped around the body to keep out moisture.
Bedding
No matter what kind of bedding you use, chose something that will keep you warm and dry, can be mobile, and waterproof if possible.
Just as important as what you sleep in, is what you sleep on. 75% of the cold comes from the ground. There are many things you can use to insulate you from the cold ground.
Mattress or Sleeping Pad: A commercial foam pad or self inflating mattress will provide comfort and insulation.
Ground Cloth or Tarp: Ground cloths and tarps won't insulate very much, but will keep out the moisture.
Other items: Leaves, Magazines, Newspaper, Cardboard, Tree bark and branches will all insulate you from the cold ground.
There are a few options of what to sleep in. Choose what works for you and what you have or are willing to purchase.
Sleeping Bag: Sleeping bags are compact, and will keep you warm. Store them next to your kit, or attach them to your pack with chord, rope or bungees.
Bed Roll: See attached instructions for making a bedroll below.
Other: Dress warm and wrap in a tarp or garbage bag. Or wrap up in an emergency blanket or pouch that will reflect you body heat back to you.
Always make sure you go do bed warm and dry. Put on dry clothes, including undergarments before bed.
Bedroll Instructions
Difficulty: Easy
Things You'll Need:
• Large waterproof cover
• As many blankets as desired
• Sleeping blanket or sheet
• Ropes
Step1
Place the waterproof material flat on the ground. Then put the first blanket over the top so it is covering two-thirds of the waterproof cover.
Step2
Place the second blanket over the first, lining its edge at the middle of the first blanket.
Step3
If any additional blankets are desired, continue to place them in the same arrangement as the first two, alternating positions.
Step4
Fold the sheet or sleeping blanket in half and place it in the middle of the bedroll.
Step5
Starting with the last blanket you put down, fold the blankets one at a time over the sleeping blanket or sheet.
Step6
Fold the waterproof covering over the blankets. To get into your bedroll, enter from the top, into the middle and you should be in the sleeping blanket or sheet.
Step7
When you are packing up your bedroll for camping, place your nightclothes and needed toiletries in the middle inside the bedroll.
Step8
Begin to roll from the bottom, until you have a tight roll, then tie it off by using the ropes on at least the two ends and possibly a third in the middle to keep everything together and tight.
No matter the emergency situation, it is important to keep ourselves and our families safe and protected from the elements, including: rain, wind, snow, fog, sun, heat and lightening. We may need to find our protection out in the elements, or in our own home. There are many ways to keep us sheltered.
Be aware of you surroundings. If possible, your home can be a shelter. In a disaster situation, debris from homes and buildings (walls, doors, concrete, furniture etc.) can be used. In the winter, snow caves or ditches can create an environment up to 20 degrees warmer than the outside air. Branches, limbs, and leaves can be used to protect from wind, rain, or sun. Large rocks and cliffs can provide small areas of safety.
Tents: Tents can provide a safe place out of the wind and rain. Tents are mobile and can be set up in your own yard, far away from the rubble, or in or near shelter. Find a tent that is the right size for you and your family. Keep in mind a dome tent that does not need to be staked into the ground can be set up indoors to provide privacy for your family in a public place. Make sure you know how to set up the tent before you are required to us it.
Tarps: This can be a heavy ground cloth, plastic sheeting or tarp. A tarp can be used to provide overhead shade, a tent, a lean-to, ground covering, waterproofing. A tarp with grommets (small reinforced holes) and a rope can be tied to trees, buildings, etc.
Garbage bags, rain ponchos, emergency blankets: These can be used to block wind, or wrapped around the body to keep out moisture.
Bedding
No matter what kind of bedding you use, chose something that will keep you warm and dry, can be mobile, and waterproof if possible.
Just as important as what you sleep in, is what you sleep on. 75% of the cold comes from the ground. There are many things you can use to insulate you from the cold ground.
Mattress or Sleeping Pad: A commercial foam pad or self inflating mattress will provide comfort and insulation.
Ground Cloth or Tarp: Ground cloths and tarps won't insulate very much, but will keep out the moisture.
Other items: Leaves, Magazines, Newspaper, Cardboard, Tree bark and branches will all insulate you from the cold ground.
There are a few options of what to sleep in. Choose what works for you and what you have or are willing to purchase.
Sleeping Bag: Sleeping bags are compact, and will keep you warm. Store them next to your kit, or attach them to your pack with chord, rope or bungees.
Bed Roll: See attached instructions for making a bedroll below.
Other: Dress warm and wrap in a tarp or garbage bag. Or wrap up in an emergency blanket or pouch that will reflect you body heat back to you.
Always make sure you go do bed warm and dry. Put on dry clothes, including undergarments before bed.
Bedroll Instructions
Difficulty: Easy
Things You'll Need:
• Large waterproof cover
• As many blankets as desired
• Sleeping blanket or sheet
• Ropes
Step1
Place the waterproof material flat on the ground. Then put the first blanket over the top so it is covering two-thirds of the waterproof cover.
Step2
Place the second blanket over the first, lining its edge at the middle of the first blanket.
Step3
If any additional blankets are desired, continue to place them in the same arrangement as the first two, alternating positions.
Step4
Fold the sheet or sleeping blanket in half and place it in the middle of the bedroll.
Step5
Starting with the last blanket you put down, fold the blankets one at a time over the sleeping blanket or sheet.
Step6
Fold the waterproof covering over the blankets. To get into your bedroll, enter from the top, into the middle and you should be in the sleeping blanket or sheet.
Step7
When you are packing up your bedroll for camping, place your nightclothes and needed toiletries in the middle inside the bedroll.
Step8
Begin to roll from the bottom, until you have a tight roll, then tie it off by using the ropes on at least the two ends and possibly a third in the middle to keep everything together and tight.
September 2008
Hi Preparedness Group,
Here are the notes from our last class on Shelter, Protection & Bedding, including how to make the good old fashioned "bed roll".
Thanks to the April & Blake for teaching the class. They did a great job!
Our goal this month:
Gather your shelter and bedding materials (such as tents, pads and sleeping bags) for each family member and have handy next to your 72 hour kits.
Our next class on Oct 21st will be on "Sanitation, Personal Care and Special Needs" and will be taught by Janna.
Debbie
Here are the notes from our last class on Shelter, Protection & Bedding, including how to make the good old fashioned "bed roll".
Thanks to the April & Blake for teaching the class. They did a great job!
Our goal this month:
Gather your shelter and bedding materials (such as tents, pads and sleeping bags) for each family member and have handy next to your 72 hour kits.
Our next class on Oct 21st will be on "Sanitation, Personal Care and Special Needs" and will be taught by Janna.
Debbie
Clothing, Fuel and Warmth
Clothing
There are three things that clothing must do to protect the body: insulate the body against the cold; provide proper ventilation to keep the body dry; and protect the body against the elements.
Layering clothing contributes to regulating the body’s temperature and is most effective in keeping warm and dry. Keep multiple layers on when the body is not active, such as resting or sleeping; take off layers as necessary to keep from sweating when active. Sweating in cold weather will increase your chances of hypothermia because the moisture will stay close to you as your clothes absorb it and will inhibit their effectiveness in keeping you warm. Wet clothing loses up to 90% of its ability to retain heat. Also keep your head covered to retain body heat: up to 90% of your body heat can be lost through your head.
In the heat, use cotton as it retains water the longest and can aid in keeping your body cool. Also keep your skin covered: exposed arms and legs in extreme heat, combined with heavy activity, can lead to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke. Clothes that are loose-fitting and cover the body are the best defense against heat: think pioneer clothing (long sleeves, wide-brim hat, etc).
Types of Material
Cotton is the most popular type of clothing material. It retains water and is useful for cooling in the summer. Be careful using this material next to the skin during cold weather, however, as its water retaining capability contributes to loss of body heat.
Synthetic materials are used by many sports and outdoor specialists due to their ability to wick moisture away from the skin. This is useful in both hot and cold weather (as long as the moisture is allowed to evaporate without cause loss of body heat in winter).
Down-filled garments are especially warm and can be compacted to small spaces for storage. A down vest would be a great intermediate layer for cold weather. The disadvantage of down occurs if the garment gets wet: it loses most of its ability to insulate. A waterproof outer-shell is essential to keeping the garment useful.
Wool is a great insulator and can retain its insulation qualities even when wet. Modern synthetic-wool blend is a great material for socks, which help feet stay dry and warm in cold weather and dry and cool in hot weather. These socks can be purchased at outdoor and athletic stores.
Using Clothing in 72hr Kits
Clothing is a great void-filler. When packing your kit, keep similar items of clothes together (socks, underwear, etc) in gallon size Ziploc freezer bags with the air squeezed out of them. These bags will keep your clothing dry (absolutely essential) and allow you to fill any voids in your backpack or other container to spread out the load of your kit.
Keep your clothing rotated through your kit appropriate to the season: warm for winter (layers), cool for summer. Other items to include might be sunglasses; extra eye-glasses; rain gear; sturdy, worn in shoes; leather work gloves; bandana; hat; and large trash bags (for impromptu rain cover).
Fuel and Warmth
Keeping dry and warm are the most important things to do in any survival situation.
You may have to make a fire and there are several options you have in starting one. Matches are good to have in your kit but they must be waterproofed or kept in a waterproof container. There are “storm-proof” and “hurricane” matches which are designed to stay lit, so if you use them, remember to dispose of them properly—pitching one when it is still lit may have Smokey the Bear right on your tail. Birthday candles can be used if a flame is needed for more than a few seconds. Matches can be water-proofed by dipping the heads in candle fat or with nail polish—be sure to include the strike plate the matches come with on the side of the box so you can light them. Butane lighters also work, but use only the durable, metal kind. Cheap plastic lighter can break in your kit and soak things with butane, not a pleasant experience!
Another item you can use to start a fire is the flint and steel trick: practice before you have to use them, they do take a little getting used to. Use cotton balls coated lightly with Vaseline to light with a spark—the Vaseline burns long and is a great heat source to get kindling going for your fire.
Steel wool can be lit using a nine-volt battery—just touch the positive and negative terminals to the steel wool and viola, instant sparks! However, this method takes some practice in getting the tinder and kindling started from the burning steel wool. Practice what you will be doing so you know that you can do it when needed! Many ideas are clever and sound great, but when it comes to making use of them, they may not be practical or even doable. Don’t use any equipment in your survival kit that you have not already tried and proven.
Chemical hand warmers are available at outdoor stores. Small backpacking stoves are a great way to boil water for cooking and drinking if called for and are easy to transport. Other ideas can be found in the Boy Scout Handbook and Fieldbook.
One other note on fuel: It is a good idea to store enough fuel for your vehicle to travel to your place of safety. For instance, if the Barnard’s had to flee Wichita they would plan on having enough fuel stored to travel to family in Salt Lake City (or wherever you will go). Storing gasoline must be done properly or it can be dangerous. Use only DOT approved containers and store in a shed apart from the house instead of a connected garage. Gasoline containers occasionally vent fumes when warmed in the summer and you don’t want those fumes near your house. Also, use fuel stabilizer to keep fuel from gelling. Gasoline is a mixture and if left to sit for more than sixty days or so it begins to separate. Fuel stabilizer can keep fuel good for more than a year. However, it is recommended that in addition to using stabilizer for your fuel supply, rotate it through by using it for your lawn mower or something similar so that you do not let it sit for years without using it.
Outdoor Skills Resources (can be purchased at outdoor stores like Sportsman’s Warehouse and Gander Mountain)
Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpacking Book, by Allen O’Bannon and Mike Clelland, 2001, Globe Pequot Press (entertaining book on backpacking tips, very useful for trimming unnecessary weight from 72hr kit-type containers)
National Outdoor Leadership School’s Wilderness Guide, by Mike Harvey, 1999, Simon & Schuster
There are three things that clothing must do to protect the body: insulate the body against the cold; provide proper ventilation to keep the body dry; and protect the body against the elements.
Layering clothing contributes to regulating the body’s temperature and is most effective in keeping warm and dry. Keep multiple layers on when the body is not active, such as resting or sleeping; take off layers as necessary to keep from sweating when active. Sweating in cold weather will increase your chances of hypothermia because the moisture will stay close to you as your clothes absorb it and will inhibit their effectiveness in keeping you warm. Wet clothing loses up to 90% of its ability to retain heat. Also keep your head covered to retain body heat: up to 90% of your body heat can be lost through your head.
In the heat, use cotton as it retains water the longest and can aid in keeping your body cool. Also keep your skin covered: exposed arms and legs in extreme heat, combined with heavy activity, can lead to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke. Clothes that are loose-fitting and cover the body are the best defense against heat: think pioneer clothing (long sleeves, wide-brim hat, etc).
Types of Material
Cotton is the most popular type of clothing material. It retains water and is useful for cooling in the summer. Be careful using this material next to the skin during cold weather, however, as its water retaining capability contributes to loss of body heat.
Synthetic materials are used by many sports and outdoor specialists due to their ability to wick moisture away from the skin. This is useful in both hot and cold weather (as long as the moisture is allowed to evaporate without cause loss of body heat in winter).
Down-filled garments are especially warm and can be compacted to small spaces for storage. A down vest would be a great intermediate layer for cold weather. The disadvantage of down occurs if the garment gets wet: it loses most of its ability to insulate. A waterproof outer-shell is essential to keeping the garment useful.
Wool is a great insulator and can retain its insulation qualities even when wet. Modern synthetic-wool blend is a great material for socks, which help feet stay dry and warm in cold weather and dry and cool in hot weather. These socks can be purchased at outdoor and athletic stores.
Using Clothing in 72hr Kits
Clothing is a great void-filler. When packing your kit, keep similar items of clothes together (socks, underwear, etc) in gallon size Ziploc freezer bags with the air squeezed out of them. These bags will keep your clothing dry (absolutely essential) and allow you to fill any voids in your backpack or other container to spread out the load of your kit.
Keep your clothing rotated through your kit appropriate to the season: warm for winter (layers), cool for summer. Other items to include might be sunglasses; extra eye-glasses; rain gear; sturdy, worn in shoes; leather work gloves; bandana; hat; and large trash bags (for impromptu rain cover).
Fuel and Warmth
Keeping dry and warm are the most important things to do in any survival situation.
You may have to make a fire and there are several options you have in starting one. Matches are good to have in your kit but they must be waterproofed or kept in a waterproof container. There are “storm-proof” and “hurricane” matches which are designed to stay lit, so if you use them, remember to dispose of them properly—pitching one when it is still lit may have Smokey the Bear right on your tail. Birthday candles can be used if a flame is needed for more than a few seconds. Matches can be water-proofed by dipping the heads in candle fat or with nail polish—be sure to include the strike plate the matches come with on the side of the box so you can light them. Butane lighters also work, but use only the durable, metal kind. Cheap plastic lighter can break in your kit and soak things with butane, not a pleasant experience!
Another item you can use to start a fire is the flint and steel trick: practice before you have to use them, they do take a little getting used to. Use cotton balls coated lightly with Vaseline to light with a spark—the Vaseline burns long and is a great heat source to get kindling going for your fire.
Steel wool can be lit using a nine-volt battery—just touch the positive and negative terminals to the steel wool and viola, instant sparks! However, this method takes some practice in getting the tinder and kindling started from the burning steel wool. Practice what you will be doing so you know that you can do it when needed! Many ideas are clever and sound great, but when it comes to making use of them, they may not be practical or even doable. Don’t use any equipment in your survival kit that you have not already tried and proven.
Chemical hand warmers are available at outdoor stores. Small backpacking stoves are a great way to boil water for cooking and drinking if called for and are easy to transport. Other ideas can be found in the Boy Scout Handbook and Fieldbook.
One other note on fuel: It is a good idea to store enough fuel for your vehicle to travel to your place of safety. For instance, if the Barnard’s had to flee Wichita they would plan on having enough fuel stored to travel to family in Salt Lake City (or wherever you will go). Storing gasoline must be done properly or it can be dangerous. Use only DOT approved containers and store in a shed apart from the house instead of a connected garage. Gasoline containers occasionally vent fumes when warmed in the summer and you don’t want those fumes near your house. Also, use fuel stabilizer to keep fuel from gelling. Gasoline is a mixture and if left to sit for more than sixty days or so it begins to separate. Fuel stabilizer can keep fuel good for more than a year. However, it is recommended that in addition to using stabilizer for your fuel supply, rotate it through by using it for your lawn mower or something similar so that you do not let it sit for years without using it.
Outdoor Skills Resources (can be purchased at outdoor stores like Sportsman’s Warehouse and Gander Mountain)
Allen and Mike’s Really Cool Backpacking Book, by Allen O’Bannon and Mike Clelland, 2001, Globe Pequot Press (entertaining book on backpacking tips, very useful for trimming unnecessary weight from 72hr kit-type containers)
National Outdoor Leadership School’s Wilderness Guide, by Mike Harvey, 1999, Simon & Schuster
August 2008
Hi everyone,
Attached are the notes from the last class on Clothing, Fuel & Warmth presented by the Barnards.
Our goal for this month:
Gather clothing and needed supplies for warmth and fuel for your emergency kits.
Thanks!
Debbie
Attached are the notes from the last class on Clothing, Fuel & Warmth presented by the Barnards.
Our goal for this month:
Gather clothing and needed supplies for warmth and fuel for your emergency kits.
Thanks!
Debbie
Light and Communication
LIGHT
It is vital during a power outage to have an alternative source of lighting. It is best to have a combination of light sources in the home and in your emergency kit (e.g. flashlights & lanterns). Obviously, for safety reasons, battery operated lights are preferred over lanterns and candles. However, lanterns and candles may be helpful during an extended power outage. Take the time to practice using your various light sources so that you can see the realities of using them before the emergency comes.
1. Flashlights –
Waterproof, Heavy-duty flashlights: Keep flashlights and extra batteries and bulbs in your Emergency kit, First-aid Kits and in all areas of your home. Store batteries separately from the flashlights. Pack flashlights at the top of your 72-hour kit. Note that LED flashlights are a great choice for emergency kits because they are 70% more efficient than regular flashlights. The batteries in an LED flashlight will last 10x longer and there are no fragile parts to break (as with regular bulbs). It is recommended to replenish your kit with fresh batteries every 6 mo.
Other: Head-lamp Flashlights (great for hands free lighting) & Hand-crank Flashlights (just need extra bulbs).
Emergency Power-failure Lights – keep these plugged into an electrical outlet where they keep charged. When the power goes out, these lights automatically switch on and provide several hours of back-up lighting. They can be used to light up hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, exits, and circuit breakers or fuse box areas. They can also double as a portable flashlight.
2. Batteries –
Store plenty of extra alkaline batteries for your flashlight, transistor radio, and any other items in your emergency kit that is battery operated. Alkaline batteries will give about 10 hours of continuous light. They have a 3-5 year shelf life if stored in a cool location in an airtight container. They provide a much longer shelf life than carbon-zinc batteries. They retain 90% of their power after 4 years (if unused) and 85% after 5 years of storage. (Lithium batteries are more expensive but have twice as long a shelf life of 10 years and can operate in extreme cold). Always store batteries near but separate from your flashlights or radios in their original packaging in a re-closable plastic bag. This prevents leaky batteries from damaging equipment.
3. Bulbs – Be sure to keep a couple of spare bulbs on hand for your flashlights.
4. Chemical Light Sticks –
Light from light sticks generally last 8-10 hours with the first 30 minutes being the brightest and most useful. These can help you to see in the dark as well as provide the psychological benefit of having light. They are the best light to use if there is danger of a gas leak (no sparks). They are flameless, non-toxic, cool, windproof and waterproof. They provide 360 degree light visible up to a mile away. They float on water and can be seen through smoke and underwater. Store several of these light sticks for each member of the family in your emergency kits, first-aid kits and in your home and car, but not as the sole source of light. Also include flashlights. Shelf life is about 2-3 years (from the date of manufacture) if kept sealed in the foil wrapper.
Uses: general lighting, traffic control, road safety, changing tires at night, reading maps at night, distress signals, roadside car accidents, building search and evacuation, medical triage & victim identification, checking circuit breakers or fuse boxes, used as a “night light” in children’s rooms, etc.
5. Candles & Candle Lanterns – for extra long power outages (but not where there could be a gas leak).
Candle Lantern with Carrying Handle – Safest holder for candles. The enclosed lanterns are wind-proof, water resistant and less likely to ignite surroundings if knocked over. Remember to store plenty of extra candles & waterproof matches.
Non-enclosed Candles – Make sure there is a broad base on the candle holder (small solid holders are best) and keep away from furnaces, gas appliances, children and combustible materials! White or light-colored candles burn brighter than dark candles. Small utility or camping candles are better than long dinner candles.
Liquid 100-hr Candles – come in cans; odorless & smokeless; uses liquid paraffin. They provide 100 hours of light and heat. If tipped over, most types extinguish the flame for an extra measure of safety.
Other Candle Notes: Tallow candles (contain animal fat) burn brighter, longer, and are fairly smoke free compared to wax candles). Candles burn more slowly & evenly with minimum wax drippings if placed in the freezer for several hours before using them. You can increase the light of candles by placing a piece of aluminum foil or mirror reflector behind the candle or by placing the candle in front of a mirror. It also helps to place the lantern on a light-colored surface. Do not let children carry fuel, lanterns or lighted candles. Candle snuffers are helpful to put out a candle quickly, safely & completely.
SAFETY: Never go to sleep with any unvented burning device in your home. Always crack a window open in the vicinity of the burning device such as a candle, lantern or kerosene stove or heater. Also, keep a battery-operated carbon-monoxide detector in working order nearby where open flames from heating devices are used and a fire extinguisher handy.
6. Battery-Powered or Fuel Lanterns and Lamps –
Fluorescent Lanterns (Battery Powered) – Very safe; Provide light for 24-86 hrs depending upon the size and quantity of the batteries. They burn brighter & longer than flashlights, but are also larger and weigh more. (Note: Due to the cold, they may not light at all in temperatures below 20 degrees.)
Back-packing or camp Lanterns (Liquid Fuel) – compact, collapsible & lightweight. Try to find one that uses kerosene (the safest fuel).
Kerosene (Hurricane) Lanterns – Perfect for home or outdoor use. They are an excellent source of light and will burn for about 45 hours on a quart of fuel. They burn bright and are inexpensive to operate. The main problem is failure to trim the wick correctly. Wicks should be trimmed in an arch, a “V” or “A” or straight across the top. Failing to properly trim the wick and maintain them results in smoke and poor light. To avoid a kerosene odor, light and extinguish a kerosene lantern outdoors. Light can be dimmed or brightened using the adjustable wick. Keep extra wicks and plenty of kerosene oil or lamp oil on hand.
Mantle Oil Lamps – For indoor use; They use kerosene or lamp oil.
Coleman Kerosene Lantern – For outdoor use -- safer and less expensive to operate than propane lanterns. They have a 5 1/2 hour burn time on one 32-ounce filling of kerosene. Puts out as much light as a 300 Watt electric light bulb. (Prices run $75 - $95).
Solar Lanterns – provide light on a full charge (8 hours of sunlight)
SAFETY: Always fill lanterns with fuel outside. Never use propane or white gas indoors. Never use car fuel. Read the instructions with your lantern to know where it may be safely used. Light all cooking, heating and lighting equipment preferably outdoors or by a window that is open several inches. Never use camping stoves or burning lights in a closed room.
7. Other Supplies
Fire Extinguishers – Having several ABC all purpose type fire extinguishers are essential, especially when alternative sources of heat and light are being used.
Carbon-Monoxide Detectors (Battery-operated) – Very important. Have at least two of these detectors in your home, especially near heating sources such as your water heater and wood stove or fireplace.
Smoke Detectors – Have at least 2 battery-operated smoke detectors in your home placed on each separate level of your home. Store extra batteries for them and check them twice a year.
Lamp or Lantern Fuel
Extra lamp & lighting supplies: Wicks, chimneys, matches, etc.
Emergency Road Flares – keep several on hand in your car.
Extra Fuses ( if your home has a fuse box)
Instructions and a crescent wrench – to safely turn of your gas, power and water if needed or directed to do so.
Communication
Communication is your contact with the outside world and is vitally important to you and your family’s safety during and after a disaster. During a developing emergency, keep a radio or TV on and await instructions. After disasters, the media serve as invaluable information centers for rumor control, announcements, etc. In time of disaster don’t believe and pass on rumors -- depend on the radio or TV for your information.
Radios
Ø **Battery-Powered Radio, AM/FM (with earplug or headphone) – important for info. & for morale; some can also pick up TV channels; Some available with 4-way power: solar power, alternate wind-up electric power; battery power & DC back-up power; Using headphones or earplug conserves battery power (by not having to power the speakers). Keep radio near the top of your 72 hour kit.
Ø **Extra Radio Batteries (alkaline)
Ø Weather Radio – Gives continuous weather info.
Ø Other: Car radio; 10-band short-wave radios (picks up broadcasts all over the world); Amateur or Ham Radio; Two-way Radios (range of up to 2 miles; help keep communication when family members are separated; no license required; runs on 3 AA batteries; 38 hrs of talk time); Walkie-talkies; CB Radio (portable, with car lighter adapter cord; Channel 19 is the emergency frequency; range 5-20 miles); Small battery powered TV (gives a much better visual understanding of the emergency at hand, however these TV’s will NOT work after Feb 2009 unless you have a digital portable TV. See attached article.); Portable Laptop; Cell phones with TV channels.
Maps
**Road Maps, Compass, & Community Maps (Get out of the phone book or from local Chamber of Commerce) – Mark location of potential hazards, evacuation routes, best walking routes to public emergency shelters, family meeting place, children’s schools, church, hospitals, fire and police departments, relatives and friends who live out of the area you could stay with after an evacuation; Make sure each family member is familiar with the map and important community locations.
**Family Disaster Action Plan – Have a predetermined action plan and an alternate plan to re-unite your family at a central location or meeting point in case family members are separated during an emergency. These points may be your own home (unless you are not allowed to go back to your home after a disaster), neighbors (such as with a fire), friends, relatives, Red Cross shelters, community or recreational centers, schools, parks, churches, etc. Go over the plan with your family. Make sure younger family members know how to get there. (Remember that messages can be left at some locations to help inform family members who arrive later.) Include important addresses and phone numbers (such as your out-of-area contact person) and recent photos of your family to help with locating missing persons. Decide how you will communicate with each other in an emergency. Keep a copy of this disaster plan in each person’s 72 hour kit, at work, and in the children’s school backpacks. Attach maps to the disaster plan. Also be sure that each person carries ID on them – wallet cards, dog tags, etc. with name, address & phone number.
Phones & Internet
Cell Phones – include recharger and a car cell phone charger (keep this in the car); Often during an emergency, cell phones get completely tied up but you can still get through on outgoing out-of-state calls. This is where the outside contact becomes very important. Also remember to include an “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) name & phone number on your cell phone under your “contact list” should you be injured and someone finds you. Don’t forget that texting will sometimes work even when phone calls can’t go through. (This was especially true during the recent earthquake in China).
Internet – Internet and email may be possible during an emergency as long as the phone lines are intact at both ends and power (or back-up battery power) continues to keep the computer running.
Pre-Paid Phone Cards –Hev in each 72 hour emergency kit. (Be sure there is no expiration date that the card must be used up by.)
Pay Phones – If you have no coins, you can get help by calling the toll-free numbers: 1-800-OPERATOR or 1-800-COLLECT; To have money wired, call 1-100-CASH.
**Out of Area Contact Person – Establish an out-of-area contact (at least 50 miles away) where family members can both leave and receive messages during or after an emergency. Family members can call this person and report their location and condition. Every family member should know this contact phone number by heart. Be sure to include these important phone numbers on the family Disaster Action Plan sheet described above. And, be sure to let relatives know you are safe after the emergency is over so they don’t come looking for you.
**Phone List - Complete an “Important Phone List” and keep copies in your car and emergency kits. (The list may include: 9-1-1, Fire, poison control, police, animal control, employer, attorney, bank, hospitals, cell phone numbers, doctors, church leaders, friends, close family, community emergency shelter, dentist, daycare center, disaster clean-up company, utility companies, e-mail addresses, employer, home-owner’s insurance agent, Highway Patrol, mechanic, mortgage company, neighbors, out-of-area contact people, pharmacy, plumber, road conditions, roadside help or towing service, schools, phone company, weather conditions/forecast, etc.) Also post emergency phone numbers by every phone in the house! Also keep a card with a list of family contact numbers in your wallet, purse, & children’s school backpacks. Remember that at an evacuation Center there may not be a phone book available and you might not be able to remember phone numbers when under stress.
Procedures for School Children
In an emergency, your children may be sheltered in place or evacuated from school. Do not go to the school. School personnel are trained to handle emergencies. Do not call your children’s school during the emergency – you may tie up lines need for emergency calls. Listen to the Emergency Broadcasts to know when and where to pick up your children.
Signaling Items
Emergency flares (can also double as a fire starter) – use for auto accidents or car problems
Signal Mirror (glass or metal)
Space blanket or emergency blankets – can also be used for signaling with their reflective surface.
Brass whistles with Lanyard – one per person, especially children; whistles carry much further than voices.
Car horn
Car mirror
Use oil under car hood burned in a hubcap to send up a miniature cloud which is visible for miles; Also, a burning tire makes a hot fire and lots of easy-to-see thick black smoke for 3-4 hours.
Remember: The #1 rule of surviving in the wilderness is to stay put. You are much better off spending the time preparing for an overnight or extended stay where you are. Your chance of being found, faster, is much improved if you are not on the move.
** = Very important!!
Goals for this month:
LIGHT: Obtain appropriate light sources for your home and emergency kit & cars (with extra batteries, fuel, lighting supplies, etc.). Also get carbon monoxide alarms & fire extinguishers as needed.
COMMUNICATION: Complete a Family Disaster Plan including maps, a list of important phone numbers, and a meeting place. Establish an out-of-area contact and let them know. Obtain needed communication & signaling devices (such as radios & whistles).
It is vital during a power outage to have an alternative source of lighting. It is best to have a combination of light sources in the home and in your emergency kit (e.g. flashlights & lanterns). Obviously, for safety reasons, battery operated lights are preferred over lanterns and candles. However, lanterns and candles may be helpful during an extended power outage. Take the time to practice using your various light sources so that you can see the realities of using them before the emergency comes.
1. Flashlights –
Waterproof, Heavy-duty flashlights: Keep flashlights and extra batteries and bulbs in your Emergency kit, First-aid Kits and in all areas of your home. Store batteries separately from the flashlights. Pack flashlights at the top of your 72-hour kit. Note that LED flashlights are a great choice for emergency kits because they are 70% more efficient than regular flashlights. The batteries in an LED flashlight will last 10x longer and there are no fragile parts to break (as with regular bulbs). It is recommended to replenish your kit with fresh batteries every 6 mo.
Other: Head-lamp Flashlights (great for hands free lighting) & Hand-crank Flashlights (just need extra bulbs).
Emergency Power-failure Lights – keep these plugged into an electrical outlet where they keep charged. When the power goes out, these lights automatically switch on and provide several hours of back-up lighting. They can be used to light up hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, exits, and circuit breakers or fuse box areas. They can also double as a portable flashlight.
2. Batteries –
Store plenty of extra alkaline batteries for your flashlight, transistor radio, and any other items in your emergency kit that is battery operated. Alkaline batteries will give about 10 hours of continuous light. They have a 3-5 year shelf life if stored in a cool location in an airtight container. They provide a much longer shelf life than carbon-zinc batteries. They retain 90% of their power after 4 years (if unused) and 85% after 5 years of storage. (Lithium batteries are more expensive but have twice as long a shelf life of 10 years and can operate in extreme cold). Always store batteries near but separate from your flashlights or radios in their original packaging in a re-closable plastic bag. This prevents leaky batteries from damaging equipment.
3. Bulbs – Be sure to keep a couple of spare bulbs on hand for your flashlights.
4. Chemical Light Sticks –
Light from light sticks generally last 8-10 hours with the first 30 minutes being the brightest and most useful. These can help you to see in the dark as well as provide the psychological benefit of having light. They are the best light to use if there is danger of a gas leak (no sparks). They are flameless, non-toxic, cool, windproof and waterproof. They provide 360 degree light visible up to a mile away. They float on water and can be seen through smoke and underwater. Store several of these light sticks for each member of the family in your emergency kits, first-aid kits and in your home and car, but not as the sole source of light. Also include flashlights. Shelf life is about 2-3 years (from the date of manufacture) if kept sealed in the foil wrapper.
Uses: general lighting, traffic control, road safety, changing tires at night, reading maps at night, distress signals, roadside car accidents, building search and evacuation, medical triage & victim identification, checking circuit breakers or fuse boxes, used as a “night light” in children’s rooms, etc.
5. Candles & Candle Lanterns – for extra long power outages (but not where there could be a gas leak).
Candle Lantern with Carrying Handle – Safest holder for candles. The enclosed lanterns are wind-proof, water resistant and less likely to ignite surroundings if knocked over. Remember to store plenty of extra candles & waterproof matches.
Non-enclosed Candles – Make sure there is a broad base on the candle holder (small solid holders are best) and keep away from furnaces, gas appliances, children and combustible materials! White or light-colored candles burn brighter than dark candles. Small utility or camping candles are better than long dinner candles.
Liquid 100-hr Candles – come in cans; odorless & smokeless; uses liquid paraffin. They provide 100 hours of light and heat. If tipped over, most types extinguish the flame for an extra measure of safety.
Other Candle Notes: Tallow candles (contain animal fat) burn brighter, longer, and are fairly smoke free compared to wax candles). Candles burn more slowly & evenly with minimum wax drippings if placed in the freezer for several hours before using them. You can increase the light of candles by placing a piece of aluminum foil or mirror reflector behind the candle or by placing the candle in front of a mirror. It also helps to place the lantern on a light-colored surface. Do not let children carry fuel, lanterns or lighted candles. Candle snuffers are helpful to put out a candle quickly, safely & completely.
SAFETY: Never go to sleep with any unvented burning device in your home. Always crack a window open in the vicinity of the burning device such as a candle, lantern or kerosene stove or heater. Also, keep a battery-operated carbon-monoxide detector in working order nearby where open flames from heating devices are used and a fire extinguisher handy.
6. Battery-Powered or Fuel Lanterns and Lamps –
Fluorescent Lanterns (Battery Powered) – Very safe; Provide light for 24-86 hrs depending upon the size and quantity of the batteries. They burn brighter & longer than flashlights, but are also larger and weigh more. (Note: Due to the cold, they may not light at all in temperatures below 20 degrees.)
Back-packing or camp Lanterns (Liquid Fuel) – compact, collapsible & lightweight. Try to find one that uses kerosene (the safest fuel).
Kerosene (Hurricane) Lanterns – Perfect for home or outdoor use. They are an excellent source of light and will burn for about 45 hours on a quart of fuel. They burn bright and are inexpensive to operate. The main problem is failure to trim the wick correctly. Wicks should be trimmed in an arch, a “V” or “A” or straight across the top. Failing to properly trim the wick and maintain them results in smoke and poor light. To avoid a kerosene odor, light and extinguish a kerosene lantern outdoors. Light can be dimmed or brightened using the adjustable wick. Keep extra wicks and plenty of kerosene oil or lamp oil on hand.
Mantle Oil Lamps – For indoor use; They use kerosene or lamp oil.
Coleman Kerosene Lantern – For outdoor use -- safer and less expensive to operate than propane lanterns. They have a 5 1/2 hour burn time on one 32-ounce filling of kerosene. Puts out as much light as a 300 Watt electric light bulb. (Prices run $75 - $95).
Solar Lanterns – provide light on a full charge (8 hours of sunlight)
SAFETY: Always fill lanterns with fuel outside. Never use propane or white gas indoors. Never use car fuel. Read the instructions with your lantern to know where it may be safely used. Light all cooking, heating and lighting equipment preferably outdoors or by a window that is open several inches. Never use camping stoves or burning lights in a closed room.
7. Other Supplies
Fire Extinguishers – Having several ABC all purpose type fire extinguishers are essential, especially when alternative sources of heat and light are being used.
Carbon-Monoxide Detectors (Battery-operated) – Very important. Have at least two of these detectors in your home, especially near heating sources such as your water heater and wood stove or fireplace.
Smoke Detectors – Have at least 2 battery-operated smoke detectors in your home placed on each separate level of your home. Store extra batteries for them and check them twice a year.
Lamp or Lantern Fuel
Extra lamp & lighting supplies: Wicks, chimneys, matches, etc.
Emergency Road Flares – keep several on hand in your car.
Extra Fuses ( if your home has a fuse box)
Instructions and a crescent wrench – to safely turn of your gas, power and water if needed or directed to do so.
Communication
Communication is your contact with the outside world and is vitally important to you and your family’s safety during and after a disaster. During a developing emergency, keep a radio or TV on and await instructions. After disasters, the media serve as invaluable information centers for rumor control, announcements, etc. In time of disaster don’t believe and pass on rumors -- depend on the radio or TV for your information.
Radios
Ø **Battery-Powered Radio, AM/FM (with earplug or headphone) – important for info. & for morale; some can also pick up TV channels; Some available with 4-way power: solar power, alternate wind-up electric power; battery power & DC back-up power; Using headphones or earplug conserves battery power (by not having to power the speakers). Keep radio near the top of your 72 hour kit.
Ø **Extra Radio Batteries (alkaline)
Ø Weather Radio – Gives continuous weather info.
Ø Other: Car radio; 10-band short-wave radios (picks up broadcasts all over the world); Amateur or Ham Radio; Two-way Radios (range of up to 2 miles; help keep communication when family members are separated; no license required; runs on 3 AA batteries; 38 hrs of talk time); Walkie-talkies; CB Radio (portable, with car lighter adapter cord; Channel 19 is the emergency frequency; range 5-20 miles); Small battery powered TV (gives a much better visual understanding of the emergency at hand, however these TV’s will NOT work after Feb 2009 unless you have a digital portable TV. See attached article.); Portable Laptop; Cell phones with TV channels.
Maps
**Road Maps, Compass, & Community Maps (Get out of the phone book or from local Chamber of Commerce) – Mark location of potential hazards, evacuation routes, best walking routes to public emergency shelters, family meeting place, children’s schools, church, hospitals, fire and police departments, relatives and friends who live out of the area you could stay with after an evacuation; Make sure each family member is familiar with the map and important community locations.
**Family Disaster Action Plan – Have a predetermined action plan and an alternate plan to re-unite your family at a central location or meeting point in case family members are separated during an emergency. These points may be your own home (unless you are not allowed to go back to your home after a disaster), neighbors (such as with a fire), friends, relatives, Red Cross shelters, community or recreational centers, schools, parks, churches, etc. Go over the plan with your family. Make sure younger family members know how to get there. (Remember that messages can be left at some locations to help inform family members who arrive later.) Include important addresses and phone numbers (such as your out-of-area contact person) and recent photos of your family to help with locating missing persons. Decide how you will communicate with each other in an emergency. Keep a copy of this disaster plan in each person’s 72 hour kit, at work, and in the children’s school backpacks. Attach maps to the disaster plan. Also be sure that each person carries ID on them – wallet cards, dog tags, etc. with name, address & phone number.
Phones & Internet
Cell Phones – include recharger and a car cell phone charger (keep this in the car); Often during an emergency, cell phones get completely tied up but you can still get through on outgoing out-of-state calls. This is where the outside contact becomes very important. Also remember to include an “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) name & phone number on your cell phone under your “contact list” should you be injured and someone finds you. Don’t forget that texting will sometimes work even when phone calls can’t go through. (This was especially true during the recent earthquake in China).
Internet – Internet and email may be possible during an emergency as long as the phone lines are intact at both ends and power (or back-up battery power) continues to keep the computer running.
Pre-Paid Phone Cards –Hev in each 72 hour emergency kit. (Be sure there is no expiration date that the card must be used up by.)
Pay Phones – If you have no coins, you can get help by calling the toll-free numbers: 1-800-OPERATOR or 1-800-COLLECT; To have money wired, call 1-100-CASH.
**Out of Area Contact Person – Establish an out-of-area contact (at least 50 miles away) where family members can both leave and receive messages during or after an emergency. Family members can call this person and report their location and condition. Every family member should know this contact phone number by heart. Be sure to include these important phone numbers on the family Disaster Action Plan sheet described above. And, be sure to let relatives know you are safe after the emergency is over so they don’t come looking for you.
**Phone List - Complete an “Important Phone List” and keep copies in your car and emergency kits. (The list may include: 9-1-1, Fire, poison control, police, animal control, employer, attorney, bank, hospitals, cell phone numbers, doctors, church leaders, friends, close family, community emergency shelter, dentist, daycare center, disaster clean-up company, utility companies, e-mail addresses, employer, home-owner’s insurance agent, Highway Patrol, mechanic, mortgage company, neighbors, out-of-area contact people, pharmacy, plumber, road conditions, roadside help or towing service, schools, phone company, weather conditions/forecast, etc.) Also post emergency phone numbers by every phone in the house! Also keep a card with a list of family contact numbers in your wallet, purse, & children’s school backpacks. Remember that at an evacuation Center there may not be a phone book available and you might not be able to remember phone numbers when under stress.
Procedures for School Children
In an emergency, your children may be sheltered in place or evacuated from school. Do not go to the school. School personnel are trained to handle emergencies. Do not call your children’s school during the emergency – you may tie up lines need for emergency calls. Listen to the Emergency Broadcasts to know when and where to pick up your children.
Signaling Items
Emergency flares (can also double as a fire starter) – use for auto accidents or car problems
Signal Mirror (glass or metal)
Space blanket or emergency blankets – can also be used for signaling with their reflective surface.
Brass whistles with Lanyard – one per person, especially children; whistles carry much further than voices.
Car horn
Car mirror
Use oil under car hood burned in a hubcap to send up a miniature cloud which is visible for miles; Also, a burning tire makes a hot fire and lots of easy-to-see thick black smoke for 3-4 hours.
Remember: The #1 rule of surviving in the wilderness is to stay put. You are much better off spending the time preparing for an overnight or extended stay where you are. Your chance of being found, faster, is much improved if you are not on the move.
** = Very important!!
Goals for this month:
LIGHT: Obtain appropriate light sources for your home and emergency kit & cars (with extra batteries, fuel, lighting supplies, etc.). Also get carbon monoxide alarms & fire extinguishers as needed.
COMMUNICATION: Complete a Family Disaster Plan including maps, a list of important phone numbers, and a meeting place. Establish an out-of-area contact and let them know. Obtain needed communication & signaling devices (such as radios & whistles).
July 2008
Hi Preparedness Group,
Thank you to those who came to the classes today. We missed those who were on vacation this week!
Attached is the handout from our class today on Light & Communication.
Our new goals for this month are:
1. LIGHT: Obtain appropriate light sources for your home and emergency kit & cars (with extra batteries, fuel, lighting supplies, etc.). Also get carbon monoxide alarms & fire extinguishers as needed.
2. COMMUNICATION: Complete a Family Disaster Plan including maps, a list of important phone numbers, and a family meeting place. Establish an out-of-area contact and let them know. Obtain needed communication & signaling devices (such as radios & whistles).
Keep up the great work on your emergency kits.
Debbie
Thank you to those who came to the classes today. We missed those who were on vacation this week!
Attached is the handout from our class today on Light & Communication.
Our new goals for this month are:
1. LIGHT: Obtain appropriate light sources for your home and emergency kit & cars (with extra batteries, fuel, lighting supplies, etc.). Also get carbon monoxide alarms & fire extinguishers as needed.
2. COMMUNICATION: Complete a Family Disaster Plan including maps, a list of important phone numbers, and a family meeting place. Establish an out-of-area contact and let them know. Obtain needed communication & signaling devices (such as radios & whistles).
Keep up the great work on your emergency kits.
Debbie
First Aid and Medications
First-Aid & Medications
Having a working knowledge of basic first-aid treatment and light rescue skills is extremely important following a major disaster when hospitals are overloaded and emergency medical services may be delayed. Often, life or death is in the hands of the nearest person, which could be family members, friends or neighbors. Having a well-stocked first-aid kit as part of 72-hour kit supplies can help increase confidence and well-being during an emergency.
First aid is the immediate care you give to someone who is injured or who has become suddenly ill. It includes medical help, words or encouragement, showing willingness to help, and showing confidence through your competence.
Keep your first-aid skills up to date. All family members should know the basics: opening airways, CPR, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, how to stop severe bleeding, how to treat choking, etc. Classes are offered through the Red Cross. A great way to teach your family is by incorporating 1st aid into your Family Home Evenings. (Using a first aid book or even the Boy Scout Book, Let the kids take a turn becoming an expert in an area and teach the family a new skill each week).
Having a working knowledge of basic first-aid treatment and light rescue skills is extremely important following a major disaster when hospitals are overloaded and emergency medical services may be delayed. Often, life or death is in the hands of the nearest person, which could be family members, friends or neighbors. Having a well-stocked first-aid kit as part of 72-hour kit supplies can help increase confidence and well-being during an emergency.
First aid is the immediate care you give to someone who is injured or who has become suddenly ill. It includes medical help, words or encouragement, showing willingness to help, and showing confidence through your competence.
Keep your first-aid skills up to date. All family members should know the basics: opening airways, CPR, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, how to stop severe bleeding, how to treat choking, etc. Classes are offered through the Red Cross. A great way to teach your family is by incorporating 1st aid into your Family Home Evenings. (Using a first aid book or even the Boy Scout Book, Let the kids take a turn becoming an expert in an area and teach the family a new skill each week).
Also, don’t forget to keep up to date on Tetanus and booster shots.
Your First-Aid Kit
You can either put together your own first aid kit or purchase kits. I personally find it most economical to buy a good kit, go through it thoroughly, and buy any extra items that are lacking or that our family particularly needs.
Whether buying or assembling your own kits, be sure that you consider the following tips:
The kit should be appropriate to the place where it is going to be used. For example, keep a large, well-stocked first-aid kit in your home and smaller, portable kits in each car near your other 72 hour kits supplies. Every family member should have some very basic first-aid supplies in their individual 72-hour Emergency Kits (placed so that the First Aid Kit can be accessed very quickly).
Contents should be wrapped, sealed, etc. so that unused portions don’t become dirty when handled.
Fit the kit to specific family needs – such as supplies recommended by a doctor. Remember items for persons with special needs, such as diabetics, invalids, handicapped, elderly, infants and those with chronic illnesses.
Kits should be based on level of training of family members. Only include in your kit items you are familiar with and know how to use properly. As you receive more training, you can upgrade your kit.
Make sure all family members know where the medical supplies are kept and how to get to them quickly.
Rotate items that degrade over time, and keep your first-aid kit freshly stocked.
All liquids should be enclosed in a re-closable plastic bag, to contain any leakage that may occur from breakage or freezing.
Place in your kit a list of current medications for each family member, including dosage, and any allergies they may have. Also list style and serial numbers of medical devices (such as pacemakers). (Life-support systems should have an alternative power source readily available and in quantity to withstand the absence of electricity for an extended period of time. They should also be portable in case of an evacuation).
Include a list of doctors and relatives or friends so that they can be notified if an injury or illness occurs.
Priorities when Helping an Injured Person
Rescue the victim from life-threatening danger, if necessary.
Send someone to seek medical help, if the injury or illness is serious.
Restore or maintain breathing and heartbeat using mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or CPR (which is now recommended in most cases).
Control heavy bleeding by applying a clean compress and firm, direct pressure to the wound.
Treat poisoning as directed by the Poison Control Center. Save any container, and try to identify the poison before calling the center.
Prevent shock by helping the victim lie down and by maintaining body temperature.
Examine the victim for other injuries.
Seek medical help. Call 911, if not done previously. Arrange follow-up medical care.
Keep checking the victim’s breathing and pulse. Don’t leave until medical help arrives.
When to Call a Paramedic
Call 911 when a medical problem threatens a person’s life: Heart Attack symptoms (intense pressure, squeezing in center of chest, nausea), serious injury, uncontrolled bleeding, shock (fainting, unconsciousness, inappropriate behavior), spinal injuries, major burns, loss of consciousness, and breathing difficulties.
Should Death Occur
Call paramedic to verify presence or absence of vital life signs.
Call the doctor if the deceased was under the care of a physician.
Notify local police department for an official report of the death.
Select a mortician to make all the necessary additional arrangements.
In a large-scale disaster, many deaths may occur. The coroner advises that after taking a photo to document conditions, bodies should be wrapped in clean sheets or plastic and set in a cool place. Authorities should be notified as soon as possible.
First Aid Kit Supplies
(Fit the list to your family’s needs, type of kit, and your level of expertise; Make sure there is a label identifying your first-aid kit – such as with a red “cross”)
Consecrated Oil
Airway or Breathing Items
CPR Mask Recue breather with One-way Valve (clear, flexible barrier); also available as a pocket or key chain or single use CPR mask.
Plastic vomiting basin or several disposable “Airsick Bags” (from commercial airlines) or even gallon ziplock bags.
Sterile Bulb Aspirator (2-3 oz size) – to extract blood & secretions from back of throat & nostrils.
Supplies for Dressing Wounds
Adhesive Tape (1-3” widths) – lots of kinds available including hypoallergenic
Sterile Dressings (gauze in sealed paper packages) for dressing cuts, burns and lacerations, and as an aid to control bleeding – Sizes 2x2”, 4x4”, 6x6”
Burn-Free Sterile Dressings – soft, open-cell foam, saturated with a gel formula to cool.
Cotton Absorbent “Post-Op” Sponges for controlling bleeding & dressing cuts, burns & lacerations
Absorbent Cotton (1 oz rolled, boxed, sterile) – not for open flesh wounds
Cotton-tipped Applicators & cotton balls
Non-stick Pads (Assorted sizes) – for dressing wounds like burns; won’t stick to wound.
Maternity, Sanitary pads & even disposable diapers can double as a dressing to help stop serious bleeding and can also be useful to pad splints.
Steri-Strips (3M) – to close open wounds such as lacerations until wound can be stitched.
Butterfly Sutures – to hold edges of wounds together
Superglue
Universal Dressings (various sizes) – for controlling bleeding from severe or large wounds; also useful to pad splints.
Abdominal Pads (9x5”) to control serious bleeding from wounds
Elastic Knuckle Bandages & Fingertip Bandages
Patient Bite Sponges – for bleeding in mouth or teeth area
Gauze Self-adhering Roller Bandages (1”, 2”, 3” & 6” widths, 5-10 yds long; boxed, sterile) – to help cover wounds and hold dressings in place.
Elastic Bandages with Clips (2”,3” & 4” widths, such as Ace wraps) used as support for twists and sprains, and to help hold dressings in place
Flexible Conforming Gauze (various widths) – help cover wounds and hold dressings in place.
Plain Absorbent Gauze Pads (18x18” and 24x72”, folded smaller) – for covering and dressing large wounds
Eye Pads (oval-shaped, gauze covered cotton pads) – to cover injured eyes
Adhesive Dressings (Band-aids in various sizes) – for dressing small, minor cuts.
Tourniquet & Constriction Bands (rubber, Velcro, surgical tubing) – to control serious bleeding due to amputation injuries
Moleskin – for blister protection on hands and feet
Cleansing and Antiseptic Items
Hand Sanitizer
Antibacterial Soap Bar (small bar)
Alcohol Preparation Pads – for sanitizing skin (not for open wounds)
Betadine Preparation Pads – Antiseptic for minor wounds
Antibiotic Ointment
Moistened Towelettes – for cleaning hands, minor wounds
Antiseptic Solution
Small container of sterile liquid soap for cleaning wounds, such as Phisoderm
Rubbing Alcohol (70%) – General antiseptic for cleaning wounds, sterilizing, cooling the skin, sanitizing the skin surface for invasive procedures, treating poison ivy, etc. Also helps relieve minor muscular aches and pains due to overexertion or fatigue.
250 cc bottles of Sterile Water – for wound irrigation & cleansing & cooling burns
Normal Saline Solution in Plastic Bottle – for eyes
Hydrogen Peroxide – Helps prevent infection when used to cleanse minor cuts, clean burns, or abrasions.
Latex Sterile gloves (several pairs) – to prevent further contamination of wounds when caring for others and to help protect the care-giver from infectious diseases.
NOTE: Bandages can be made from a white undershirt, handkerchiefs, or other cotton clothing in an emergency where ready-made materials are not available; (Cotton balls slathered with Antibiotic Ointment in a ziplock bag can be used for wounds and double as fire starters)
Supplies for Splinting Fractures
Triangular Bandages (muslin) with safety pins – arm slings, bandaging, holding splints in place, etc.
Splints (for arms & legs) – padded boards, cardboard, plastic, inflatable, ladder, etc.
Sterile Tongue Blades – to check for sore throat and to splint broken fingers.
Cervical Collars: foam or plastic with Velcro (small, med. & large sizes) – to immobilize the neck.
NOTE: Splints can be made from pillows, boards, ski poles, umbrellas, or rolled up newspapers and magazines. They can be secured with belts. Crutches can be fashioned from forked sticks if nothing better is available.
Tools, Kits, and Protective Gear
Bandage scissors – for cutting bandages, moleskin, gauze, tape, etc.
EMT/Paramedic Snips – for cutting through heavy clothing, seat-belts, light metal, etc. during rescue.
Blood Pressure apparatus
Chemical Light Sticks – to light up area where first-aid or rescue is needed, especially around areas where explosive gas vapors may be present.
Cotton or Wool blankets – to cover first-aid victims
Dust or Filter Masks – to reduce spread of germs & decrease intake of dust during rescue operations.
Folded White Sheet – to cover injured victims, or to make slings, bandages, etc.
Gloves (heavy-duty leather)
Hearing Protectors (foam or silicone type) – for noise reduction
Heavy Rope – for rescue purposes
Mylar Emergency Blanket – to treat shock, and to cover injured individuals
Sterile Needle – Helps in treatment of blisters and in the removal of splinters.
Pillow
Plastic-strip or Digital Thermometer
Pocket Knife (multi-function) – useful in back-woods for improvising splinting materials
Razor blade (single edged)
Safety Flares – to warn oncoming traffic of accident or danger areas
Safety Goggles
Small flashlight or re-usable penlight with extra alkaline batteries
Snake Bite Kit
Splinter tweezers or forceps & small magnifying glass – for getting out splinters
Stethoscope – for checking heartbeat, and for use with blood-pressure apparatus
Tick Removal Kit
Matches
Medications
If possible, work with your doctor and your local pharmacy to obtain at least a 2 week supply of necessary medications to include in your portable first-aid kit or 72 hour kit in addition to your regular home supply. Any patient who depends on a regular medication should ask their doctor to write an extra prescription for an emergency supply. If necessary, it may be advisable to pay for the extra drugs out of pocket for the peace of mind. Keeping prescriptions at chain pharmacies (e.g. “Rite Aid”), may make it easier to get supplies if local pharmacies become limited. National chains keep their information in computer systems that can be accessed in other locations. It is important to ask doctors what steps to take in the event that you don’t have enough medication to last through an emergency. Stopping some medications suddenly can cause major problems. But some medications are alright if some doses are missed.
To build up your personal emergency supply, the American Red Cross suggests asking your doctor if it would be safe to go without one dosage periodically, until an adequate supply has been accumulated. For some medications, such as high cholesterol medications, during an emergency it may be possible to stretch medications out by skipping every other dose or cutting pills in half. But be sure to talk with your doctor and get this information before the emergency comes so that you know what is safe to do.
Be sure that all medicine containers are adequately labeled and that directions for use are kept with each of them. Keep a record of expiration dates, and replace your medications with a fresh supply when the expiration date is reached. Some drugs deteriorate with age and become either ineffective or unsafe to use. (If there is not an expiration date stamped on the bottle, talk to the pharmacist).
Your emergency kit should include a record of original prescriptions (or even a copy of the doctor’s prescription) and printed information on special care for a particular disease. Maintain portable electronic or paper copies of medical records and get a medical identification bracelet for any chronic condition or medication allergy. Patients should also learn what their options would be in the aftermath of any disaster, including where to turn for alternative care, and what to do if something such as flood waters or loss of refrigeration destroys a supply of medication. Each patient needs to think about what they would need to take in their car or in a backpack to properly manage their health if they had to leave their home for two weeks.
Prescription medications including insulin, oxygen, heart medication, high blood-pressure medication, asthma inhaler, etc. Obtain specific information from doctor or pharmacist on how long to store, how often to rotate, etc. If young children are around be sure there are child proof caps on medications.
Antibiotics – used only by those for whom it is prescribed
Pain Relievers – (tablet or liquid form) aspirin, ibuprofen & Tylenol in child & adult strengths.
Allergy Medications – Antihistamines (Tablet or liquid) – such as Benadryl, for congestion, allergic reactions, itching & restlessness; Calamine or Caladryl lotion for non-poisonous insect bites, stings, and skin rashes due to contact with allergy-producing materials such as poison ivy, poison oak, etc.; Epinephrine (adrenaline) Injection Kit for those who have history of severe allergic reactions (such as bee stings).
Cold & Cough Preparations, Cough drops or Throat Lozenges, & Decongestants (tablet, liquid or nasal spray); Homemade nasal decongestant: ¼ tsp salt in 8oz of water. Place 2 drops in each nostril 3 times per day.
Other Medications
Ammonia Inhalant Ampules (smelling salts) – for dizziness and fainting
Antacid Medications or Acid-blockers (tablet or liquid) & Pepto-Bismol Tablets
Anti-Diarrhea Medication (tablet or liquid)
Anti-Fungal Cream (for Athlete’s foot)
Vaginal Yeast Infection cream
Baking Soda in small container for 3rd degree burns and shock & for bee stings
Eye Drops
Eye wash and irrigant (sterile)
Insect Repellent (Baby oil can double as an insect repellent when none is available)
Insect Bite Solution (ointment or spray); (A drop of lemon juice applied to insect bites or stings instantly relieves the irritation)
Laxatives (tablet or liquid)
Medicine Dispensers (plastic spoons, medicine droppers, syringe or 1-oz cups)
Nausea Medication including motion-sickness medicine such as Drammamine.
Oral Electrolyte Solution
Sleep Aid – prescribed or over the counter to help you sleep in a crowded public shelter; also doubles as a decongestant and antihistamine.
Sugar Cubes (individually wrapped in plastic or restaurant sugar pkts) – for insulin shock
Table salt – for delayed treatment of shock & burns & heat cramps and fatigue and to make salt water to gargle with a store throat.
First Aid for Poisoning –
Syrup of Ipecac (2 oz)
activated Charcoal – to bind or absorb ingested poison (use only if advised by the Poison Control Center)
Skin Preparations
Triple-antibiotic Cream, Ointment, or Powder
Zinc Oxide
AloeVera Ointment or Cream – for minor skin injuries & burns
Chapstick
Diaper Ointment or Powder
Petroleum Jelly – protective skin ointment and lubricant
A&D Ointment – healing skin ointment
Hydrocortisone Cream (1.0 %) – relieves itching skin, rashes, and minor skin irritations
Hemorrhoidal Preparations
Medicated Antiseptic/Anesthetic Skin Spray
Sunburn Ointment, cream or Spray
Sunscreen Lotion – at least 45 SPF (the higher the SPF the stronger the protection)
Vaseline Intensive Care Lotion for dry skin
NOTE: To relieve a sunburn or diaper rash, add ¼ cup baking soda and ½ cup cornstarch to a warm (not hot) bath. Also, ½ tsp soda & 1 tsp salt in 1 qt of water replaces body fluids.
Miscellaneous Items
Contact Lenses (spare pair) and Solution
Eye Glasses (spare pair)
Denture supplies, Hearing-aid Batteries and wheel-chair batteries (spares)
Instant Chemical Disposable Cold Pack – for reducing swelling & pain & cooling burns
Instant Chemical Disposable Hot pack – increases blood circulation & helps reduce pain; also for treating hypothermia.
Rubber Ice Bag – to reduce swelling, for burns, and for relief of pain.
Rubber Hot Water Bottle – for pain, warmth, comfort, storing of water, & to put in cold sleeping bag for extra comfort & warmth)
Paper Drinking Cups – to give drinks and to cover eye injuries.
Safety Pins (various sizes)
Small Towel– for drying. Can also be for bandaging, dressing wounds, & controlling bleeding.
Nail clippers; Dental floss or heavy string
Paper towels, facial tissue, toilet tissues & plastic bags to discard used first aid wraps.
Written Materials
Critical Medical Histories
Copy of immunization records
First Aid Manual
Names, Phone numbers, & addresses of physicians, hospitals, paramedics, police and fire departments, poison control center, etc.
Small Notebook and Pencils – to record victim’s medical info. & to send messages
Choking first-aid instructions – on a small card, near top of kit
CPR & Resuscitation Instructions – on small card, near top of kit
GOALS FOR THIS MONTH
Obtain or assemble first aid kits to go with each person’s 72 hour kit as well as for each vehicle. Also upgrade your larger home First aid supplies (your largest kit) as needed.
Obtain a 2 week supply of needed medicines in your portable 72 hour or first aid kit and organize a method to rotate that medicine.
Make copies (or a record) of all prescriptions and a copy of your insurance card (front & back) and place in a ziplock bag in your portable 72 hour or first aid kit.
June 2008
Hi Preparedness Group,
Thank you to all who were able to make it to the classes today! We had some great discussion on first aid care and supplies and on medicine. For those who weren't able to be there, I've attached the handout for today's class and a Medical Information form for you to copy and fill out for each member of your family. That form along with any attachments (such as copies of prescriptions, living will, power of attorney, etc.) should be put in a re-closable bag in your 72 hour kit as part of your important documents.
(Note - some of the information on the section about medicine in the handout came from a Wall Street Journal article I clipped a few years ago about lessons learned from the Katrina Hurricane about being medically prepared for a disaster. This is very important information for anyone with necessary medication to take or who needs special medical supplies.)
Our goals for this month are at the end of the First Aid Handout -- basically, obtain your 1st aid kits, your 2 week supply of needed medicine, and your health documents for your 72 hour kits.
I'm hearing some great things from people who are working hard on their kits. Great job! Keep it up. It's neat to see these kits coming together. If we stay on schedule, we should be done by November!
Next month we will be discussing "Light & Communication".
Debbie
Thank you to all who were able to make it to the classes today! We had some great discussion on first aid care and supplies and on medicine. For those who weren't able to be there, I've attached the handout for today's class and a Medical Information form for you to copy and fill out for each member of your family. That form along with any attachments (such as copies of prescriptions, living will, power of attorney, etc.) should be put in a re-closable bag in your 72 hour kit as part of your important documents.
(Note - some of the information on the section about medicine in the handout came from a Wall Street Journal article I clipped a few years ago about lessons learned from the Katrina Hurricane about being medically prepared for a disaster. This is very important information for anyone with necessary medication to take or who needs special medical supplies.)
Our goals for this month are at the end of the First Aid Handout -- basically, obtain your 1st aid kits, your 2 week supply of needed medicine, and your health documents for your 72 hour kits.
I'm hearing some great things from people who are working hard on their kits. Great job! Keep it up. It's neat to see these kits coming together. If we stay on schedule, we should be done by November!
Next month we will be discussing "Light & Communication".
Debbie
72-Hour Emergency Kit Food
Emergency Preparedness Class – FOOD
During a crisis, you will be under more stress than usual and will need lots of energy, so the food you put into your emergency kits should be high in calories. Good nutrition is important too, but calories are the most important factor in short-term survival.
Besides nourishment, the eating of “meals” during an emergency has a positive psychological effect too. It helps people feel that they do have some control over a difficult situation. Food is provided in an evacuation center during an emergency, but there may be some lag time before that food is available. Also, food in a center is usually donated by individuals, restaurants, and canneries. This presents a problem for diabetics, and others on dietary restrictions (such as food allergies). Infants and small children may not be able to eat this food either. Nursing mothers may need liquid formula for their babies, in case they are not able to nurse. Trying to feed babies and small children is one of the greatest problems in a major crisis.
Our bodies need roughly 1700 calories to sustain ourselves for 24 hours at rest at comfortable temperatures. During stressful or emergency conditions, we can expend a lot more calories. For example, Military personnel out in the field need: 2,800-3,600 calories for men and 2,000-2,800 calories for women. But we can survive on half of our usual food intake for an extended period and actually without food for up to a month (as long as we have water). Food, unlike water, can be rationed safely except for children and pregnant women.
In your emergency kits, include food that your family will enjoy, that is high in calories and that will provide adequate nutrition. Choose foods that are lightweight and compact and that require no refrigeration, preparation, or cooking . Consider also the size and weight of your 72 hour kit container.
Come up with a Menu so that you know exactly how much food you need in each kit. You can put each meal together in a Ziplock plastic bag to keep it waterproof.
Remember to rotate the food items according to their shelf life. You can start a new tradition every 6 months at General Conference Time to go through your kits, eat up the old food while watching Conference and then buy new food for your kits. Your kids will love it!
Practice Sessions:
Before a critical situation forces you from home, practice preparing and eating meals from the kind of food you have included in your 72 hour kits. You may want to find out what a normally hot food tastes like prepared with cold water. A practice session might seem more real if it is held outside your home. Also, no one should be able to go home and eat some more after the practice session. As your family eats, you will quickly learn what tastes good and what doesn’t and what works and what doesn’t. This will help you make adjustments to your kits. If you are including a small folding stove in your kits, try cooking your meal on it. This will help you learn how to use the stove before you have to do it in an emergency. Every member of your family should be taught safety precautions in using the stove. (For example, the instant a lit match touches a heat tab, the tab will ignite, although you may not be able to see it burning). Be sure to put the stove on a stable, level surface.
Foods Suitable for Emergency Evacuation Kits (use a variety):
* Strongly Recommended
Compressed food bars: granola bars, trail bars, energy bars – store well, lightweight, taste good, nutritious and high in calories. Rotate every 6 months.
Trail mix & granola: taste good, high in calories & nutrition; but can become rancid if stored for a long time. Rotate every 6 months.
Dried Foods (meat & fruit): Jerky, raisins, etc. Need to drink water with these. Taste good, nutritious & satisfying; but can make you thirsty if salted – especially jerky; Rotate every 6 months.
Freeze-dried foods or Meals: Excellent; lightweight & tasty but water is needed for reconstitution; More nutritious than canned foods. Can be reconstituted with cold water. Tend to be pricier than other foods. Shelf-life: 10-15 years!
Instant meals: Such as cups of noodles, Ramen, cups of casserole, instant cereal (like oatmeal), instant soup packets, etc. Usually freeze-dried and will reconstitute immediately with hot water. In dire straits, cold water will work; Rotate every 6 months.
*Stress Foods -- hard candy, Life-Savers, jelly beans, energy bars, sugared dry cereal, chocolate survival bars, gum, etc.: Are a necessity! In stressful situations, people require an increased caloric intake. Stress foods meet the requirements for survival, not for a balanced diet. They are small and compact and should be literally tucked into small spaces throughout your evacuation kit. They also help boost morale. If you are on a Diabetic Diet, use diabetic candies. Avoid candy which may melt.
Snack-sized packaged goods: Crackers, Snack-pack cheese and crackers, animal crackers, graham crackers, snack-pack peanut butter and crackers, vacuum packed nuts, sunflower seeds, or small variety–pack dry or sugared cereals, etc. Unsalted and unflavored nuts and seeds are less thirst provoking which may be critical if water supply is short. Rotate every 6 months.
Canned & Sealed Food: Use food items in small, single-serving containers – such as Tuna, chicken, Vienna Sausages, Pork-n-beans, fruit cups, pudding cups, canned milk, etc. It is best to have easy open tops, such as pull tabs. Otherwise, you will need to pack a can opener. Replace canned goods yearly.
Drink Mixes: Drink mixes add nice variety and can be helpful to use with stored or treated water to improve the taste. Try hot chocolate mix, Tang, instant breakfast mixes, powdered milk and pre-sweetened powdered fruit drinks. These usually come in foil envelopes, so they fit easily in the kit.
Liquid Beverages: These count as part of your “water” needs. Juice boxes and even shelf-stable milk are available. You could also use small cans of juice that open with a pull tab.
Flavorings/Condiments (if desired): Barbecue sauce, mustard, ketchup, pepper, salt, etc. (use the little packets from the restaurant or store).
Food for Pets (canned or dried) - Don’t forget about your pet needs!
*Baby Foods (if applicable): Cereal (just add water), solid food (ready to eat in containers), fruit juices, Formula (ready to feed), powdered formula.
*Other Foods for Elderly persons or persons on Special Diets
Instant Liquid Meals (Ensure, Pediasure): full of protein, vitamins and calories – meant to be a full meal replacement; the Pediasure is excellent for very young children since it is in a liquid form that they could sip with a straw. Let your children taste it beforehand, though, to be sure they like it. They come in a variety of flavors – vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.; They are a heavier food item, but do include the water needs for a meal too. They also have a nice shelf life of 2 years.
*MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat) – These are absolutely wonderful – full meals that have a shelf life of 6-10 years! They can be eaten cold if needed, but taste best when heated up. MRE’s do weigh more because they are all ready to go – no liquid needed. (You can buy MRE heaters, too, if you want a quick way to heat them up. The heater bags require ¼ cup of water. MRE’s can also be boiled in water for 5-7 minutes or put on a hot engine of a car for 10-15 minutes or any other heat source.) They cost $2-$3 each from Emergency Essentials. They are available at other camping stores as well.
*Emergency Food Compressed Ration Bars – These are commercially available in 2400 or 3600 calorie bars. They are non-thirst provoking and can withstand temperature extremes, making them ideal for the trunk of your car. The bars taste like a shortbread cookie, or a crunchy cookie with a slight coconut flavor. The bars are fortified with vitamins and minerals. They will store up to 5 years in any environment.
Storage:
Label your food with the date of purchase & “Use by” date so you can easily rotate it. Your food will stay at its best if your emergency kit is stored in a cool dry place 40-60 degrees F. is ideal).
Additional Supplies:
Mess kit: paper cups, plates, & utensils for each meal, can-opener (if needed), multi-vitamins, calcium supplement, paper towels or napkins, baby bottles, and cooking pots, matches, canned Sterno heat, aluminum foil & hotpad (if you must heat food).
If the Power Goes Out But You Don’t Need to Evacuate:
First, eat food from the refrigerator. Food will last 4-6 hours depending on how warm your kitchen is.
Second, eat food from the freezer. A fully stocked freezer will keep food frozen for 2 days after losing power. A half-full freezer can maintain freezing power for about 1 day. (Keep a list of freezer contents on the outside of the freezer so you can cut down on opening the door). Fire up the barbecue!
Finally, eat non-perishable staples or canned foods in your homes or food items in your 72 hour kit.
Note: You can maintain fresh food in a small ice chest for several days by thawing frozen food inside it. If you have too much fresh food, share it with your neighbors.
How to Cook if the Power Goes Out:
For emergency cooking you can use a fireplace, wood stove, gas stove (if gas is not turned off and there are no leaks), charcoal grill (used outdoors) or camp stove (used outdoors). Canned heat can be safely used indoors. You can also heat food with candle warmers, chafing dishes and fondue pots. Canned food can be eaten right out of the can. For simple outages, plan a favorite “black-out” meal: such as hot dogs roasted on the grill with a can of heated baked beans or soup. Your preparedness could help turn the situation into a fun, memorable one for your family.
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Here’s something fun to try:
Homemade Emergency Bars
(From New Era, March 1977, p. 27) – you can look up the article on www.lds.org
3 cups rolled oats, barley, or wheat
2 ½ cups powdered milk
1 cup sugar
3 Tbsp honey
½ package citrus-flavored gelatin (I used one small pkg)
3 Tbsp water
Place all dry ingredients, except the gelatin, an a bowl. Add the water to the honey and bring to a boil. Dissolve the gelatin in the honey-water mixture; then add it all to the dry ingredients. After mixing well, add water a tsp at a time until the mixture is barely moist enough to be molded. Shape into 2 bars.
Each bar will be about the size of a large matchbox and will be sufficient food for one day. The bar can be eaten dry, or cooked in about a pint of water. It may be dried in the oven under low heat, wrapped in foil, and placed in a covered container for indefinite storage.
During a crisis, you will be under more stress than usual and will need lots of energy, so the food you put into your emergency kits should be high in calories. Good nutrition is important too, but calories are the most important factor in short-term survival.
Besides nourishment, the eating of “meals” during an emergency has a positive psychological effect too. It helps people feel that they do have some control over a difficult situation. Food is provided in an evacuation center during an emergency, but there may be some lag time before that food is available. Also, food in a center is usually donated by individuals, restaurants, and canneries. This presents a problem for diabetics, and others on dietary restrictions (such as food allergies). Infants and small children may not be able to eat this food either. Nursing mothers may need liquid formula for their babies, in case they are not able to nurse. Trying to feed babies and small children is one of the greatest problems in a major crisis.
Our bodies need roughly 1700 calories to sustain ourselves for 24 hours at rest at comfortable temperatures. During stressful or emergency conditions, we can expend a lot more calories. For example, Military personnel out in the field need: 2,800-3,600 calories for men and 2,000-2,800 calories for women. But we can survive on half of our usual food intake for an extended period and actually without food for up to a month (as long as we have water). Food, unlike water, can be rationed safely except for children and pregnant women.
In your emergency kits, include food that your family will enjoy, that is high in calories and that will provide adequate nutrition. Choose foods that are lightweight and compact and that require no refrigeration, preparation, or cooking . Consider also the size and weight of your 72 hour kit container.
Come up with a Menu so that you know exactly how much food you need in each kit. You can put each meal together in a Ziplock plastic bag to keep it waterproof.
Remember to rotate the food items according to their shelf life. You can start a new tradition every 6 months at General Conference Time to go through your kits, eat up the old food while watching Conference and then buy new food for your kits. Your kids will love it!
Practice Sessions:
Before a critical situation forces you from home, practice preparing and eating meals from the kind of food you have included in your 72 hour kits. You may want to find out what a normally hot food tastes like prepared with cold water. A practice session might seem more real if it is held outside your home. Also, no one should be able to go home and eat some more after the practice session. As your family eats, you will quickly learn what tastes good and what doesn’t and what works and what doesn’t. This will help you make adjustments to your kits. If you are including a small folding stove in your kits, try cooking your meal on it. This will help you learn how to use the stove before you have to do it in an emergency. Every member of your family should be taught safety precautions in using the stove. (For example, the instant a lit match touches a heat tab, the tab will ignite, although you may not be able to see it burning). Be sure to put the stove on a stable, level surface.
Foods Suitable for Emergency Evacuation Kits (use a variety):
* Strongly Recommended
Compressed food bars: granola bars, trail bars, energy bars – store well, lightweight, taste good, nutritious and high in calories. Rotate every 6 months.
Trail mix & granola: taste good, high in calories & nutrition; but can become rancid if stored for a long time. Rotate every 6 months.
Dried Foods (meat & fruit): Jerky, raisins, etc. Need to drink water with these. Taste good, nutritious & satisfying; but can make you thirsty if salted – especially jerky; Rotate every 6 months.
Freeze-dried foods or Meals: Excellent; lightweight & tasty but water is needed for reconstitution; More nutritious than canned foods. Can be reconstituted with cold water. Tend to be pricier than other foods. Shelf-life: 10-15 years!
Instant meals: Such as cups of noodles, Ramen, cups of casserole, instant cereal (like oatmeal), instant soup packets, etc. Usually freeze-dried and will reconstitute immediately with hot water. In dire straits, cold water will work; Rotate every 6 months.
*Stress Foods -- hard candy, Life-Savers, jelly beans, energy bars, sugared dry cereal, chocolate survival bars, gum, etc.: Are a necessity! In stressful situations, people require an increased caloric intake. Stress foods meet the requirements for survival, not for a balanced diet. They are small and compact and should be literally tucked into small spaces throughout your evacuation kit. They also help boost morale. If you are on a Diabetic Diet, use diabetic candies. Avoid candy which may melt.
Snack-sized packaged goods: Crackers, Snack-pack cheese and crackers, animal crackers, graham crackers, snack-pack peanut butter and crackers, vacuum packed nuts, sunflower seeds, or small variety–pack dry or sugared cereals, etc. Unsalted and unflavored nuts and seeds are less thirst provoking which may be critical if water supply is short. Rotate every 6 months.
Canned & Sealed Food: Use food items in small, single-serving containers – such as Tuna, chicken, Vienna Sausages, Pork-n-beans, fruit cups, pudding cups, canned milk, etc. It is best to have easy open tops, such as pull tabs. Otherwise, you will need to pack a can opener. Replace canned goods yearly.
Drink Mixes: Drink mixes add nice variety and can be helpful to use with stored or treated water to improve the taste. Try hot chocolate mix, Tang, instant breakfast mixes, powdered milk and pre-sweetened powdered fruit drinks. These usually come in foil envelopes, so they fit easily in the kit.
Liquid Beverages: These count as part of your “water” needs. Juice boxes and even shelf-stable milk are available. You could also use small cans of juice that open with a pull tab.
Flavorings/Condiments (if desired): Barbecue sauce, mustard, ketchup, pepper, salt, etc. (use the little packets from the restaurant or store).
Food for Pets (canned or dried) - Don’t forget about your pet needs!
*Baby Foods (if applicable): Cereal (just add water), solid food (ready to eat in containers), fruit juices, Formula (ready to feed), powdered formula.
*Other Foods for Elderly persons or persons on Special Diets
Instant Liquid Meals (Ensure, Pediasure): full of protein, vitamins and calories – meant to be a full meal replacement; the Pediasure is excellent for very young children since it is in a liquid form that they could sip with a straw. Let your children taste it beforehand, though, to be sure they like it. They come in a variety of flavors – vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.; They are a heavier food item, but do include the water needs for a meal too. They also have a nice shelf life of 2 years.
*MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat) – These are absolutely wonderful – full meals that have a shelf life of 6-10 years! They can be eaten cold if needed, but taste best when heated up. MRE’s do weigh more because they are all ready to go – no liquid needed. (You can buy MRE heaters, too, if you want a quick way to heat them up. The heater bags require ¼ cup of water. MRE’s can also be boiled in water for 5-7 minutes or put on a hot engine of a car for 10-15 minutes or any other heat source.) They cost $2-$3 each from Emergency Essentials. They are available at other camping stores as well.
*Emergency Food Compressed Ration Bars – These are commercially available in 2400 or 3600 calorie bars. They are non-thirst provoking and can withstand temperature extremes, making them ideal for the trunk of your car. The bars taste like a shortbread cookie, or a crunchy cookie with a slight coconut flavor. The bars are fortified with vitamins and minerals. They will store up to 5 years in any environment.
Storage:
Label your food with the date of purchase & “Use by” date so you can easily rotate it. Your food will stay at its best if your emergency kit is stored in a cool dry place 40-60 degrees F. is ideal).
Additional Supplies:
Mess kit: paper cups, plates, & utensils for each meal, can-opener (if needed), multi-vitamins, calcium supplement, paper towels or napkins, baby bottles, and cooking pots, matches, canned Sterno heat, aluminum foil & hotpad (if you must heat food).
If the Power Goes Out But You Don’t Need to Evacuate:
First, eat food from the refrigerator. Food will last 4-6 hours depending on how warm your kitchen is.
Second, eat food from the freezer. A fully stocked freezer will keep food frozen for 2 days after losing power. A half-full freezer can maintain freezing power for about 1 day. (Keep a list of freezer contents on the outside of the freezer so you can cut down on opening the door). Fire up the barbecue!
Finally, eat non-perishable staples or canned foods in your homes or food items in your 72 hour kit.
Note: You can maintain fresh food in a small ice chest for several days by thawing frozen food inside it. If you have too much fresh food, share it with your neighbors.
How to Cook if the Power Goes Out:
For emergency cooking you can use a fireplace, wood stove, gas stove (if gas is not turned off and there are no leaks), charcoal grill (used outdoors) or camp stove (used outdoors). Canned heat can be safely used indoors. You can also heat food with candle warmers, chafing dishes and fondue pots. Canned food can be eaten right out of the can. For simple outages, plan a favorite “black-out” meal: such as hot dogs roasted on the grill with a can of heated baked beans or soup. Your preparedness could help turn the situation into a fun, memorable one for your family.
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Here’s something fun to try:
Homemade Emergency Bars
(From New Era, March 1977, p. 27) – you can look up the article on www.lds.org
3 cups rolled oats, barley, or wheat
2 ½ cups powdered milk
1 cup sugar
3 Tbsp honey
½ package citrus-flavored gelatin (I used one small pkg)
3 Tbsp water
Place all dry ingredients, except the gelatin, an a bowl. Add the water to the honey and bring to a boil. Dissolve the gelatin in the honey-water mixture; then add it all to the dry ingredients. After mixing well, add water a tsp at a time until the mixture is barely moist enough to be molded. Shape into 2 bars.
Each bar will be about the size of a large matchbox and will be sufficient food for one day. The bar can be eaten dry, or cooked in about a pint of water. It may be dried in the oven under low heat, wrapped in foil, and placed in a covered container for indefinite storage.
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