Disaster Preparation and Survival

When difficult times arise as a result of war, strife or natural disaster what's needed to survive is preparation - Knowing what to expect, and how to cope with the challenge presented. Knowledge, gained through experience, is the best asset during these times, and those who've survived difficult times in the past are among the best suited to cope with disasters. Of course if you've undergone extensive training in some elite force then you should be - well, most of us just aren't that qualified.

Although there have been times, in this country, not all that long ago, when people often had to get through difficult times. Our parents, or theirs, had wars to cope with, a depression to go through, and there have been, and still are quite a few people who are just getting by, and making do. Not every American is living the dream.

I won't bore you with particulars, but I've known people who've lived through hard times, and there are people in America still who are getting by without the comforts that many of us enjoy. To have survived really difficult times, and come out ahead is how success was once measured.

Perhaps that's why I've always had an interest in techniques to help one survive. And why I admire people who've gone through hard times, and won out.

Anyway, we're lucky to be in America because there are so many people that can be counted on to help us. This page is about how to cope with disasters in the short term, the items needed to help us continue if we find ourselves in a disaster situation when we'll have to cope for some time, by our own wits, without conveniences, until help arrives.

The Swiss government recommends each of its citizens stockpile a week's supply of basic foodstuffs. 'They should correspond to family preferences and eating habits, including not only canned goods and water but also pet food, chocolate, sausages and hard cheeses.' "The Swiss government stocks 4.5 months of fuel and basic foodstuffs in communal bunkers."

You might consider the following:

To be prepared, I have available (immediately accessible) the following:

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day for at least a three day period. (Store in plastic containers such as soda bottles)
• Food: enough non-perishable food for at least a three day period, with opener if needed (Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables that are ready to eat).
• For safety: A first aid kit, a flash light & a radio (with extra batteries where needed), a whistle for signaling.
• Moist towelettes, plastic bags, and ties for personal sanitation.
• Dust masks, plastic sheeting, duct tape (to make safe & secure shelter).
• Matches (kept dry).
• Cash.

I have a similar bug-out kit (albeit a smaller one) in vehicle at all times.

(Additional items to consider).

• Necessary medications & spare glasses.
• A change of clothing (with long sleeves & pants).
• Formula and/or diapers.
• Utensils.
• Additional water & food for pets.
• Candles.
• Chlorine bleach, plain & unscented (clorox type).
• Additional water & food.
• Sleeping bag/blankets (dependent on local weather).
• Items for personal hygiene.
• Writing material.
• Activities to keep children busy.

The following is information I categorize as useful:

In the event a calamitous event does occur, and assuming your home is intact, and not in eminent danger, and you have not been directed to evacuate, then it would be best to remain where you are.

If the weather is inclement then stay indoors unless you absolutely must go out. In the event of cold weather you'll have to devise methods of keeping warm. Conserve body heat by wearing gloves, and especially a hat, even indoors. If you haven't proper clothing then improvise with substitutions. Never start a fire indoors unless you've a fireplace with a functioning chimney because the carbon monoxide will kill you. If you're able to have a fire then keep an extinguisher or sufficient water, or sand, handy in the event of an accident.

Be prepared to signal your whereabouts to search personnel.

This page is under construction with more to follow