It has been raining for days and the river is rising. Electric power is out and most stores are closed due to being flooded. You have been advised by authorities that you have less than two hours to evacuate your neighborhood before it is flooded. You need to leave and leave fast. You don’t have time to make a list of what you will need. So you leave with the clothes on your back. All of the evacuation centers are closed due to over crowding. So you head out of town. It seems like everything is closed. Gas stations, supper markets, discounts stores, everything is closed. How are you going to survive?
Here are some key points to remember. First, never let you gas tank go below half a tank. This will allow to get far enough away that you may find a gas station that is open. Next, develop a “bug out” bag. This is a bag of essentials that can help you survive the first 72 hours of a disaster. Remember your EDC bag has many items that you need. The bug out bag will just provide supplies to survive up to three days. Some of the items to consider are:
Water purification devices that can filter 99.999% of bacteria and parasites from water. This is much easier than trying carry three days worth of water. These devices can purify over 200 gallons of water.
Survival food, protein bars, cans of tuna and other food items with long shelve life can prove to be very helpful. Don’t forget a can opener. Remember we’re not looking for a 4 course meal, it’s survival.
Extra clothing to change into in case you are wet. Light weight items like nylon water resistant pants, sweatshirts, under ware and socks. Packable jackets are ideal for a bug out bag. Rain ponchos and hats should also be included.
Heat Source may be needed for cooking and or warmth. Matches in a waterproof container can be stored for long periods of time. Some type of tender such as paper or small pieces of wood can help make starting fire both quick and easy. Store your tender in a waterproof bag.
A First Aid kit should include items to control bleeding, bandages, tourniquet, blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, trauma dressings, elastic bandages, small bottle of sterile water gives you a good start. N95 masks may be a good choice as well.
Soap, hand wipes, toilet paper, tissues, travel toothbrush and toothpaste, hand sanitizer provide some protection against a bacteria filled environment.
Gadgets such as multi tool, hatchet and knife provide you with the key items needed to help you survive.
Weapons unfortunately will most likely be needed in a survival situation. Evil people will pray on the weak. You will need protection. A handgun with extra ammo and magazines will provide the first level of protection. The next level of protection would be a tactical shot gun with at least 50 extra shells.
Light sources are a must and can be accomplished with flashlights, glow sticks, candles and tactical flashlights. Remember to add extra batteries. Most batteries today have a very long shelf life.
Money will be very important. Credit card systems will most likely be down in large scale disasters. $300 to $500 should be sufficient for your first 72 hours. In addition you may want to consider two rolled of quarters. You may come across old mechanical vending machines.
Miscellaneous items may include Fisher Space pen, small binoculars, writing pads, large plastic trash bags, paracord, sunglasses, compass and duct tape. Remember weight is a concern. Pack what you absolutely think you will need.
You may want to consider keeping a small version of a bug out bag in you car. It would include medical equipment and supplies as well as items needed if you were stranded in a snow storm or in a isolated area. Usually this bag has enough supplies for one or to days.
This article is not meant to make you paranoid it is only intended to help you be prepared if the unthinkable should occur. Stay safe and well.
Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and by wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.
Proverbs 6:6-8
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