Four years ago this month, we were struck with a weather storm that left many with out power, gas or food. The east side was without power for almost 3 weeks. This year the forecasters are saying our winter is going to be colder and stormier than ever. Part of the martial arts is being prepared for all situations. We want to learn not only self-defense, but self-preservation as well. This cold streak reminded many of us how ill-prepared we are for a natural disaster. Over the past couple of years our country has faced hurricanes, earthquakes and floods. We must plan ahead and prepare so we can face these emergencies with confidence. We have complied a list of suggested items to be stored for emergencies. We highly recommend that you have a smaller kit in your vehicle and a larger kit at your home (your workplace is also a good idea). You should tailor your kit to your individual needs. You can be very basic or very comprehensive in your kits. You are the only one who can decide exactly what you and your family needs. Not all the items are necessary but the more you are prepared in an emergency the better off you and your family will be. Be sure to store your kit in a convenient place that all family members know and can get at it quickly when the lights go out. Keep items in airtight plastic bags and containers. Change your water supply every six months so it stays fresh. Replace stored foods by their expiration dates. Check you kit and replace batteries yearly. Remember he who fails to prepare prepares to fail!
Here is a basic list of items to have on hand in your emergency kits:
- Water, 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking & sanitation.
- Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable. (We recommend M.R.E.’s, freeze dried foods, ration bars, energy bars or other non-perishables).
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio with extra batteries.
- Flashlight with extra batteries. (We recommend that you pre-place one in each room of your house)
- Light sticks (Great for kids and safer than candles, plus they are water proof so they can light up a shower)
- First Aid Kit—Don’t forget to take CPR/1st Aid Training at Seattle Tae Kwon Do
- Whistle to signal for help or to let people know where you are.
- Dusk mask, to help filed contaminated air.
- Plastic sheeting or tarps.
- Duct Tape
- Moist toweletts, toilet paper, garbage bags & bag ties for personal sanitation.
- Multi-tool, wrench or pliers for turning off utilities or for repairs. SOG Tools are sold at Seattle Tae Kwon Do.
- Manual Can Opener
- Prescription medication and classes.
- Infant formula and diapers in you have a small child.
- Pet food and extra water for your pet.
- Copies of important family documents such as insurance polices, identification and bank records in a sealed waterproof container.
- Cash, preferably in small bills
- Emergency space blanket (Lightweight Mylar type). You should also have one in your 1st Aid Kit for shock victims.
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
- Complete change of clothing.
- Extra pair of warm socks.
- Water-Proof Gloves (latex and warm)
- Hat
- Long underwear
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper. When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water. Use 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
- Lighter and matches in waterproof container.
- Emergency preparedness and or first aid manuals. Seattle Tae Kwon Do sells AHA First Aid Course Manuals.
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene products.
- Tube Tent
- Mess kits or paper cups, plates and utensils.
- Paper and pencils.
- Comfort items such as books, puzzles, or other activities for children.
- Disposable hand warmers and or foot warmers.
- Emergency poncho or rain gear.
- Small folding pocket knife. Seattle Tae Kwon Do sells quality SOG Knives at the front counter.
- Map of the local area (For Shelters)
- Emergency Candles. (It is wise to pre-arrange decorative candles around the house so when the power goes out it is easy to set-up.)
- Compass
- Aluminum Foil
- Needle and thread
- Signal Flares
- Plastic Containers
- Soap
- Trioxide or sterno type fuel.
- Sunglasses
- Fire Extinguisher
- Ziploc Bags
- Hatchet and Shovel
- Drinking water tablets.
- Water filtration system and bottle
- Fingertip Saw.
- Pepper Spray or other home security item. Seattle Tae Kwon Do sells law enforcement quality spray at the front counter. It is also good to have a can in your car and by the front door.
- Walkie Talkies (One in each car so you can communicate with missing family members when land and cell phones lines don’t work)
