Tailored Emergency Supply Kits for Natural Disasters.
- Curry Forest
- Oct 14, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
This article is part of the Emergency Budget Series that offers strategies on how to manage money during economic downturns, pandemics, layoffs, and other challenges beyond your control caused by external factors.
In "Plan Ahead for Disasters" I provide practical guidance on preparing for various life disruptions, including family emergencies, job loss, health crises, and natural disasters. You'll find a list of essential emergency supplies to sustain you for a week.
However, different types of disasters require different types of supplies. Whether you live in a wildfire-prone area like California, a flood zone in Houston, or a hurricane hotspot in Miami, this article outlines the specific items you should have ready depending on the nature of the disaster. Additionally, it highlights supplies that may not be necessary or could even be counterproductive in certain disaster scenarios. Customized kits ensure you have the right supplies to face any emergency head-on.
Wildfires:
Masks (N95, dust mask, respirators): To protect your lungs from hazardous smoke.
Goggles: Shield your eyes from smoke, dust, and ash.
Fire extinguisher: Tackle small flames before evacuating.
Fire-resistant blanket: For protection against extreme heat.
Air quality monitor: Track indoor conditions to avoid smoke inhalation.
Satellite phone: Vital for communication when cell towers are down. Personal locator beacon (PLB): Vital easy rescue in remote areas.
Avoid:
Water-based extinguishers: Ineffective against wildfires.
Heavy, non-breathable clothing: Can trap heat during evacuation.
Wool blankets: Bulky, flammable, and impractical.
Open flames (candles, oil lamps): High fire risk.
Foam mattresses: Large and flammable.
Floods:
Waterproof bags: Keep important items dry.
Life jackets or rafts: Essential for extreme flooding.
Water purification tablets: Ensure access to safe drinking water.
Waterproof flashlight: To see in low-light conditions, and also signal to rescue crews.
Plastic sheeting & duct tape: Seal doors and windows from floodwaters.
Rubber boots: For safe navigation through contaminated water. Portable solar-powered charger: For when outlets are unavailable or overloaded. Floating survival kit: with essential supplies.
Avoid:
Non-waterproof electronics: Vulnerable to water damage.
Electric tools: Risk of electrocution in flood conditions.
Large plastic jugs: Heavy and hard to carry; collapsible containers are better.
Pillows: Will get wet and moldy; consider inflatable ones instead.
Hurricanes:
Battery-powered/hand-crank radio: For updates during power outages.
Hurricane shutters or plywood: Protect windows from strong winds.
Portable generator: Backup power for essential devices.
Tarps: Cover roof damage post-storm.
Extra fuel: Essential for your vehicle and generator. Satellite phone: Vital for communication when cell towers are down.
Avoid:
Large propane tanks: Hazardous in high winds.
Solar panels: Can’t easily be set up and may not withstand the storm.
Excessive food: A three-day supply is sufficient; too much takes up valuable space.
Earthquakes:
Hard hat: Protect yourself from falling debris.
Sturdy gloves: For handling debris and rubble.
Whistle: To signal rescuers if trapped.
Crowbar: To pry open doors or assist others.
Sturdy shoes: Protect against glass and sharp objects.
Avoid:
Gas-powered tools without proper storage: Can spark fires.
Non-essential electronics: Adds weight without real benefit.
Glass containers: Fragile and dangerous; opt for plastic.
Tall mirrors: Risk of shattering during an earthquake. Corded power tools: Take up space without being usable during outages.
Blizzards and Extreme Cold
Warm blankets or sleeping bags: Insulated for freezing temperatures.
Rock salt or sand: For melting ice or gaining traction.
Portable propane heater: Provides warmth during power outages.
Extra layers: Stay warm during extended cold periods.
Non-perishable food: High-calorie options to maintain body heat. Snow shovel and ice scraper: for vehicle use.
Avoid:
Electric heaters: Useless during power outages and a fire risk.
Too much fresh water: Hydration is key, but bulky water storage isn’t practical.
Uninsulated shoes: Can lead to frostbite.
Tornadoes:
Bicycle helmet: Head protection from flying debris.
Heavy blankets/mattress: For protection while taking cover.
First aid kit: Treat injuries from flying debris or structural damage.
Weather radio: Get real-time warnings and updates.
Flashlight with extra batteries: Essential during power outages.
Avoid:
Breakable items: Opt for sturdy containers.
Filing cabinets: Use lightweight document pouches instead.
Bulky furniture: Can block escape routes or become projectiles.
Landslides and Mudslides:
Shovel: Clear debris or assist in rescue efforts.
Rope: Useful for securing yourself or others.
Whistle: Signal rescuers if trapped.
First aid kit: For injuries from debris.
Waterproof flashlight: Navigate through dark, muddy conditions.
A GPS device: for navigation in unfamiliar terrain.
Avoid:
Large backpacks: Hinder quick evacuation in narrow or unstable areas.
Glass containers: Fragile and dangerous.
Heavy furniture: Difficult to move, increasing risk.
Tsunamis:
High-ground maps: Essential for finding evacuation routes.
Emergency flares or signal mirrors: For attracting rescuers.
Waterproof bags: Protect belongings from water damage.
Life jackets: Crucial for surviving floodwaters.
Waterproof shoes: Guard against contaminated water and debris.
Whistle or air horn: for signaling. Floating survival kit: with essential supplies.
Avoid:
Non-waterproof electronics: Likely to be ruined in flood conditions.
Bulky beach gear: Impractical and hazardous in a tsunami.
Heavy kitchen appliances: Unnecessary clutter during evacuation.
Health Crises and Pandemics:
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Masks, gloves, and face shields.
Sanitizers and disinfectants: Maintain hygiene and prevent infections.
Medications: A week’s supply of essential prescriptions.
Thermometers and basic medical supplies: Monitor health and treat minor injuries.
Extra cleaning supplies: Ensure a clean living environment. Portable air purifier/humidifier for indoor air quality.
Avoid:
Expired Medication: Ensure all medications are within their expiration date. Non-essential toileteries: Focus on essentials avoid clutter.
Bulk water storage: Impractical without purification options.
Expensive electronics: such as fitness trackers and massage devices take up space without life-saving value.
General Items That Don’t Make Sense for Any Disaster:
Large, breakable lanterns: Choose small, durable lights instead.
Weapons: Unless trained, they add unnecessary risk.
Luxury items: Focus on practical essentials.
Formal clothing: Pack rugged, waterproof attire.
Smart devices without offline capabilities: Ensure critical information is accessible offline.
Non-waterproof, Power-hungry electronics: Opt for weatherproof, cordless devices.
RESOURCES:
Be sure to check out government and nonprofit resources for the best advice. They are written by professionals who are best equipped to help you, and have the most factually correct and up-to-date information. Here are some examples:
.gov
c) https://www.cdc.gov/
Your local public library is a great resource! Several libraries help with food and emergency assistance, and provide shelter, health services, financial support, legal support, and employment training.
Your county's .gov website will point out the best resources that your county has to offer, including local non-profit relief organizations in your area.
Look for disaster preparedness recommendations specific to the natural disaster, outbreak, or emergency!
ALWAYS CALL 911 if you are in immediate danger and need emergency help. And call 311 to inquire about safety information, and for non-emergencies.
ALSO READ:
Visit our Resources page for a full directory of government and nonprofit support programs and services.
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