Just about any area can be hit with severe weather, though the type may vary based on where you live. Some places are more prone to earthquakes, others are more likely to experience tornadoes. Coastal regions may be at risk for hurricanes, and arid regions are more likely to experience wildfires. And, of course, severe thunderstorms can really happen anywhere.
With all these natural threats, doesn’t it make sense to be prepared for the worst?
That’s where your survival kit comes in. Not sure what to put in one? Here’s a quick breakdown of the best things to include in your kit.
Everyone should have a first aid kit regardless of weather threats, but it’s especially something your emergency survival kit should include. You never know what potential injuries could occur, so you should have bandages, disinfectants, and other first aid staples.
It’s a good idea to have a battery-powered weather radio, or at least an AM/FM radio at the least. This will allow you to receive emergency broadcasts even if the power is out. Just make sure you have plenty of extra batteries. Alternatively, there are hand-crank radio varieties, too. (Of course, you’ll still likely need batteries for other things as well.)
Ah yes, here’s one of those other things for which you’ll want to have extra batteries. Flashlights are an important part of an emergency survival kit, as electricity can be knocked out when severe weather strikes. You certainly don’t want to be fumbling around in the dark, unable to see.
Your survival kit should also include non-perishable food items that you can eat in a pinch. Already-cooked canned foods, nutritional or protein bars, and nuts are all great food options. (If you have canned goods, make sure you also have a can opener if necessary.) And, of course, you’re going to need clean drinking water, too. You should have at least enough to provide one gallon per person per day for several days. Ideally, you should have enough food and water stocked to last a couple of weeks.
A change of clothes can really come in handy, as can a blanket or jacket if the weather is cold. Work gloves and comfortable shoes or boots are also nice to have available in an emergency.
It’s also a good idea to have an emergency stash of cash. If the power’s out, your credit and debit cards won’t be much use.
If you need more ideas or would like to learn more about emergency preparedness, Ready.gov is an excellent resource. They have tips on survival, basic first aid, and having an emergency plan in place.
