In this article, we’re going to discuss a few key things that you’ll need to be able to maintain the safety and well being of you and your family during an emergency situation such as a natural disaster or power outages
Have a plan: Families should have a plan for every situation. If you live in an earthquake-prone location, then practice duck and cover as well as exit routes and where to meet if you get separated from each other. Learn how to shut off the water and gas main to your home.
Insurance: Make sure your home insurance policy covers various natural disasters. Include fire, earthquake, flood and etc. The last thing you need is to find out your policy doesn’t cover what destroyed your home.
Tools: Always have a set of basic hand tools in your home. Keep them in a toolbox and should include the following: flat-head screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench, electrical tape, Teflon tape, duct tape, zip ties, hammer, Allen keys/wrenches, utility/pocket knife, and rope. Having these tools available will make things easier if you have to build or repair things during an emergency.
First aid kit: Every home needs a first aid kit. They are relatively inexpensive and can be bought in multi-packs. In fact, get two for your home and 1 for each vehicle. You never know if you’ll need it, and when you do, these things can be a lifesaver.
Generator: This is one of those things that most people do not have. It’s completely understandable because how often would a family actually use one? Besides, some generators can be expensive purchases. However, they are great for camping or any outdoor activities. So if you do a lot of those, you might as well get one and keep it stored in an area that you can gain access to easily. One suggestion is to run it every few weeks to make sure the carburetor jets do not get clogged. Also, consider putting in some gas treatment in the tank to prevent the fuel from varnishing. A generator can help power your refrigerator, small appliances, charge phones, and provide power to light your home during a blackout.
Water: A reverse osmosis water filter will be your best friend. Take for example the Aquasure Premier Reverse Osmosis System, this unit does not require electricity to be operated. All it needs is water pressure. Think about all the times the power went out at your home, the only thing that works would be your gas and water. So that means if you need to flush the toilet, bathe or drink water, you still could. Most municipalities will have backup generators that are either powered by diesel or natural gas just in case electricity is cut off due to fire, storms, or any other extreme conditions.
With that in mind, water should still be running at your home as long as the source isn’t compromised or the local government doesn’t mandate boiling water before use. Other than that, your reverse osmosis (RO) system will be the best source of safe drinking water. By using your RO system, the multi-stage filters and membrane will eliminate up to 99% of contaminants found in water. These can include sediment, chlorine, bacteria, cysts, and other microorganisms.
At that point, it’s a good idea to store some of the RO water in containers on the off chance that the city water supply becomes unsafe for human consumption. That way you and your family will have enough water to drink for at least a few days. The general rule of thumb is 1 gallon per water per day for each family member. Just do the math and figure out how much water you’ll need to store to last you 5-7 days at a time.
Food: Keep a supply of dry goods in your cupboards such as ramen noodles, pasta, and rice. These will come in handy if the food in the fridge goes bad. Canned goods can also be a great source of vegetables and proteins. They are cheap to buy and will last up to 2 years. Just keep in mind that when you do buy the canned goods, cycle through them and eat things before they expire. That way you’ll always have a fresh supply of corn, Spam, tuna, and etc.
Hopefully, you found value in these tips. Emergencies are never fun, especially if you are lacking in supplies such as food and water. But being prepared can make a world of a difference in how you and your family will handle the situation safely.
