Sunday, December 29, 2013

What We Should Know About Emergency Survival Kits

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By Harriett Crosby


Emergency survival kits are just that; a tool for surviving. They need to be with us at all times of the day because you never know when you will need them. At times, they may make the difference between life and death. When assembling your kit, there are a number of important considerations that you need to have in mind so that the main objective for which such a tool is created is well fulfilled. You need to decide, from the very beginning whether you need to use your kit just once or on several occasions.

The best thing to do if you do not wish to forget anything, it to list down all the items that you think will be lifesaving. You can start by listing all the possible items and then to reduce your list progressively only to be left with the most essential. Shelter is arguably one of the most important things that you need to take care of. During emergencies, you need something to protect you from harsh climatic conditions.

For shelter, there are numerous options to consider. Commonly used forms of shelter include trash bags, tents and tarps. Nylon ponchos may be ripped and folded into shape to help serve as tents. The idea is to have a material that is light enough to be carried around with ease. Ensure that you have ropes and stakes with you.

Related to the shelter is the need for warm bedding. The top two choices for bedding are wool and fleece. These have their advantages and disadvantages. Both are always warm even when wet. Wool has the additional benefit of being a flame retardant while fleece is also very lightweight. Foil type blankets are very easy to pack and very warm as well. Cotton bedding should be avoided whenever possible as they lead to loss of body heat.

Regardless of the size of your kit, you definitely need water. According to research, between 130 and 160 oz of water is required for one person per day. This is the amount of water that is to be used for drinking only and has to be used very sparingly. Water can be packed in many different ways including sterilized bottles, water bags and reusable containers. Sterilised water should be replaced on an annual basis whenever possible.

There are types of foods that you can choose from as you prepare your kit. The choice depends on your tastes and preferences primarily. There are other considerations to have in mind though. As much as you are planning for an emergency situation, ensure that there is a balance in the types of food groups chosen as well as the mineral salts. One person requires not less than 2000 calories per day of energy. You can base your calculations on this fact. Granolas and food bars are highly preferred.

The need for additional items in the kit will vary on a case to case basis. If you intend to include toiletries such as towels and soap, do so if space is available. A first aid kit may be needed at one time or the other. Components of such a kit may include painkillers, one or two gauze rolls, wound cream and antibiotics.

Emergency survival kits should be your best friend. There are no laid down rules to guide their assembly but all you need to remember is to ensure that all the essential items are packed. Regular inspection should be done to ensure that all the items are in good condition.




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