The Facts On A 72 Hour Emergency Kit

By Kelly Wood


The 72 hour emergency kit is meant to keep people as safe as possible, especially those caught in emergency situations. It is suggested that all people have these packs so that they can survive in dangerous and disastrous situations. You are never able to predict what is going to happen. In some cases, you may be given short notice that you have to leave your residence. You might not be able to grab essentials, or shop and search for all your supplies. These kits are meant to include the basics from the household that might be necessary in emergency cases.

After a major emergency, you may have to survive on your own for a few days. This means that you will need a supply of water, food and other goods in order to last for at least 72 hours. Local relief workers and officials may be on scene following a disaster trying to help everyone. Still, it could take many hours or days before you are brought back into safety.

Furthermore, when these situations take place, the services that we normally have access to may not be in operation. Electricity, gas, telephone and sewage treatment may be unavailable. In fact, these services may be unavailable for a long period of time, depending on the state of emergency. Your supply kit should include goods that help you manage despite the outages.

The things that are included on this list may be relative to those putting the kit together. However, there are many things that all such kits should include. The main categories of goods needed for emergencies: water and food, clothing and bedding, light and fuel, equipment, money and personal documents, and medication and personal supplies.

It is suggested that emergency kits be updated every six months. All water, medication and food should be fresh and not old. The clothes should fit properly and the personal documents must be up to date. All batteries should be fully charged. Some of the items included may leak, melt, or break open. Divide items like this in bags to prevent problems from arising. Most of the older kids in a family should be able to pack their own goods. Small children might benefit from having small toys or games available to keep them occupied and comfortable during a stressful time.

Families are highly encouraged to set up their own game plan. All members should know what the kit is and where it is stored. They should also be informed of what actions to take in certain situations so that no one person is left behind. This is especially true in big families. Emergencies are usually unexpected and so it is important to be as prepared as possible.

There is not a single kit that is ideal for everyone. Keep in mind the needs of you and your family. Customize the kit to fit those needs and include all that you feel is necessary for survival. The packs are meant to sustain life for approximately 72 hours, if a rescue is not expected within that time, individuals should ration accordingly. It is important that they use these kits smartly.

Individuals and families should consider making a 72 hour emergency kit. These should have the basic necessities for survival. Update them every six months so contents remain up to date.




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