We should all be prepared for an emergency. Things happen like floods, tornados, and disease outbreaks. We are currently facing a global pandemic of COVID19 /Coronavirus. NOW is the time to make sure that you have what you need in the event of a local outbreak. You may have to shelter in place or self quarantine. THIS list can help you get started!
Tip # 1. When shopping for non perishable foods, remember to get sugar and some kind of oil. They are cheap ways to add carb and fat calories to just about anything.
Tip #2. Non disposable shopping bags are a perfect way to store emergency supplies. They are tough and are easy to grab if you need to move fast. DO NOT shop with the same bags you use for storage. Storage bags should be disinfected before use and kept as untouched as possible
Tip #3. When shopping for nonperishable food, buy based on a high calorie content with a low price tag. Don't shop based on taste. This allows you to buy more when you have limited resources
Tip #4. Here is a brief list of examples of common food items. Rice, dried beans, canned tuna, oatmeal, flour, baking mix, sugar, canned vegetables, canned beans, canned olives, cooking oil, pasta, canned sauces, Italian dressing, canned milk, canned fruits
Tip #5. When shopping for nonperishable foods avoid more common items like jerky or precooked meals. They are extremely high in sodium causing you to need more water. It's easier to get food than water. Plus common items will sell out quickly
Tip #6. Make sure to have a few bottles of both vitamin C and multi vitamins. Things like scurvy and rickets can be caused by a low vitamin intake over an extended period of time. Most nonperishable foods are low in essential nutrients.
Tip #7. If you have access to clean water it is better to store it yourself in containers you save such as soda bottles and even cat litter containers! This frees up your budget to focus on other items. Start saving containers while you have access.
Tip #8 Unwashed farm eggs can be stored at room temperature for up to two months! To check if an egg is good or not put it in a container of water. If it sinks it's good. If it floats it's no good anymore. Throw it out.
Tip #9. Common items for med kit: Two sizes of band-aids, Sterile and non sterile gauze, cloth med tape, antibiotic cream, burn cream, self adhesive ace bandage, iodine, 90%rubbing alcohol, Tylenol, Advil, Benadryl, gloves, masks, medical scissors and tweezers, butterfly closures, super glue, saline wash, Imodium, sterile chucks pads, tampons, Alcohol based hand sanitizer, CPR and first aid guides, CPR barriers, emergency flairs. Keep all supplies in a single bag for quick access in case you need to move.
Tip #10. Do not buy medical supplies that you are untrained to use. If you ARE trained here are additional items. Blood pressure cuff with separate stethoscope, suture kit with dissolving and non dissolving sutures, pressure bandages, Israeli bandages, O2 sensor, field surgery kit, Sterile saline, Air cast and splints. Remember NOT to go above your medical ability level as it is dangerous and we want supplies to be in the hands of those who can use them best.
Tip #11. Rations. An adult can survive long term on 1200 calories a day and short term on 1000 calories a day. If pregnant or breast feeding stay at 1500 a day for long term and 1200 a day for short term. Rationing for small children is not recommended.
Tip #12. Misc. Flashlights and batteries, pots and pans that are safe for open fire, water purification tablets, lifestraw, Sleeping bags w/appropriate temperature rating, tarps, rope, tent, hand tools such as saws hammers etc., backpacks, compass, local maps,
Tip #13. Clothing layers. cotton under shirt, cotton t-shirt, light long sleeve shirt, heavy long sleeve shirt, thermal outer layer, waterproof outer layer, wool socks, hat, heavy pants/shorts. For cold weather add thermal underwear, boots, gloves etc.
Tip #14. Before buying supplies check around the house. Many people have items previously listed kicking around. catalog the supplies you already have, make sure they are accessible. This will save a lot of time and money.
Tip #15. Have multiple sources of fire. Lighter, matches coated in wax, ferro rod w/ steel striker. Cotton balls soaked in alcohol and fatwood help start fires. Have a tinder box prepared ahead of time so you can start a fire in any conditions
Tip #16. DO NOT PANIC BUY!!! Take time to make a list, come up with a system, and buy only what you need. Stockpiling leads to buying without thought and takes supplies away from your community. Don't be scared, be prepared.
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