Main Facts Relating To The Use Of Emergency Survival Kits

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.

Where do we start? The best place for you to start is to make a decision on what you need in your package. List down all the items then reduce the list gradually to leave only the items of the highest priority. One of the items that you probably need to list at the very top is shelter. You never know where an emergency will find you and as such you will need a source of protection from unfavourable weather.

There are different forms of shelter that can be considered. If you cannot find ready-made forms of shelter, there are many ways of improvising. Commonly used forms of shelter include, among others, tents, trash bags and tarps. Nylon ponchos, when nicely folded, can make very good tents. The main consideration in choosing a material is the ease of packaging. Ropes and stakes should also be packed to be used for erecting your desired type of structure.

The choice of blanket is mainly based on preference. Just make sure what you choose is not too heavy. Fleece and wool tend to work very well for most people. The two retain their warmth even when rained on. This makes their use possible in almost any type of weather. Wool is also good flame retardant. Foil type blankets are also commonly used for bedding. The main reason for this is because of the ease with which they can be packaged.

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.

There are many other smaller items that are not always a must but make life comfortable. Such items include toiletries and other personal items whose inclusion will depend on availability of space. A first aid kit should also be included if space permits. In this kit ensure that the following are included, painkillers, gauze rolls 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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