Essential storm food supplies
In my previous post I talked about a tornado that went through my neighborhood. Luckily, we only lost power and cable for a short period of time. However, it did bring to light how unprepared I am for a major storm. I began to look online for storm safety tips and items I should have on hand.
Here are suggestions I found and added to based on my experience:
1. Water-It is important to remain hydrated, especially if injured and trapped. I will keep 2 gallons of water on hand in my emergency kit.
2. Food- It is important to keep a supply of non-perishable food items on hand. Cereals, Crackers, peanut butter, and canned goods are good options. You should avoid salty foods to prevent thirst. However, other options could include beefy jerky, nuts and granola. Canned goods can be heated in the can. Simply wash can with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) and open the can before heating. Be sure to include a can opener in your emergency kit! You should have at least a 3 day supply of food per person.
Shenzhen XPT Science and Technology Co., Ltd.
3. Battery powered or hand cranked radio- It is crucial to stay informed after the storm passes over. Keep a battery powered radio and a supply of batteries handy. You can also find hand cranked radios.
4. First-Aid Kit-Emergency Medical teams will be over extended during these times of weather related disasters. It is important to have a complete first aid kit handy to treat minor injuries until help can arrive. During the storm season, make sure you always keep at least a week’s supply of prescription medications on hand. Additionally, keep a stock of OTC medication, such as pain reliever, antibiotic cream and anti-diarrhea medication.
5. Lighting-Keep flashlights and camping lights accessible during the storm season. Make sure you have an adequate supply of batteries as well. Do not light your house with candles, as it will be a fire hazard.
6. Sleeping Bags and Blankets-Even in the summertime, evenings can get quite cool. It is not a bad idea to keep these bedding supplies on hand.
7. Sanitary Items-It is important to keep toothpaste, soap, toilet paper and other such items on hand. Additionally, don’t forget items like contact solution, denture cream and feminine supplies. Be sure to include several plastic garbage bags. Make sure everything is in a waterproof container. If you are disabled, be sure to have a stock of medical supplies, such as wipes, depends, catheter supplies, gloves, etc.
8. Utensils-Keep an extra supply of utensils in your emergency kit. Plates, eating utensils and a can opener would really come in handy!
9. Games and Activities-We live in a “power-sourced” world. During a power outage, it may be hard to keep your sanity without electronics. In a waterproof container, store magazines, games, deck of cards, books and children’s activities. Storms can be a very stressful and traumatic event, these items will help take your mind off the situation.
10. Cash-If the storm damage is extensive, credit and debit cards may not work. Keep a cash supply in your emergency kit, in a waterproof container. It may come in handy if the outages are prolonged.
11. Pet Supplies-Keep an extra supply of food and water for each pet. Additionally, include a blanket, comforting toy, leash, stain removal, and puppy pads. If your pet is on medication, be sure to have a supply handy. Make sure your pet has a collar with its tags on, in case they run away.
12. Whistle-A loud whistle is a great way to signal for help if you are trapped in debris or can not move.
13. Basic Tools-Add a small, basic tool kit into your storm emergency kit. Be sure to include pliers, wrench and a small saw.
14. Other Disability Related Items-It is important to have your list of emergency contacts, as well as a list of medications, medical conditions and other important medical information. Make sure you have a week’s worth of any medical supplies. I have an extra battery for my lift, to make sure I always have power. If you do not have back up power, be sure to conserve your battery to your power chair, or have a manual chair handy for emergency situations. As discussed in my previous blog, have a backup contact plan in place.
Trees knocked over after Wausau storm in Spring 2017
Be sure to charge your cell phone if you know a storm is headed your way. This may be your only way to contact emergency services if needed. Conserve your battery power if there is a power outage.
Please add any other suggestions in the comments! Be safe and smart during this upcoming storm season! In Wisconsin, we certainly started off with a bang! Our weather is always unpredictable, so it is better to plan ahead!
Until next time, Keep Rollin’ and Keep Smilin’!
Resources:
http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-safety/tips/10-must-haves-storm-survival-kit9.htm
https://www.ready.gov/kit
Photo Credit: Sandi Kelch
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