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
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