Hello everyone, Rob Raskin of Las Vegas here again, and today I’d like to cover some basics you will need for urban survival. Anyone who has seen the Twilight Zone episode “Time Enough at Last” knows the importance of having an eyeglasses repair kit when the worst happens and civilization as you know it comes to an end, but what else does the average person need in order to truly be prepared? You may not be a survivalist per se, but everyone should have certain items on-hand in case of emergency. Whether your emergency is a temporary one, such as the aftermath of a natural disaster, or it is something more serious involving the current political climate, having the tools and supplies you’ll need to weather the storm is essential.
Why Do I Need a Survival Kit?
Survivalism isn’t just for bearded men with bunkers in the woods anymore. The world has been hit with one disaster after another in recent years, from catastrophic earthquakes and tsunamis to devastating political upheaval and even home invasion robberies. People in California expect earthquakes just as people in Oklahoma expect tornadoes, but today factors such as fracking and climate change have resulted in natural disasters striking in areas where the locals were not expecting them. In this unpredictable world, when it comes to your health and safety and that of your loved ones, isn’t it better to be safe than sorry?
Just the Basics
There are certain items you will need to have immediate access to in order for basic survival. These are essentials, so these are going to be the first thing you’ll need to put in your kit. The most important thing you’ll need to add to your kit is a multi-purpose tool that has pliers, wire cutters, a knife, scissors, a bottle opener, a can opener, and a multi-bit screwdriver. You’ll also want to have all of your emergency contact information on-hand in an easily accessible place where others can find it if you are not able. Be sure you have plenty of fire-starting implements on-hand as well. Make sure you have a shut-off wrench as well, because you may need it to shut your gas off.
Your Survival Kitchen
Water, instant coffee, powdered butter, eggs, and juice, canned foods, and condiments are just a few of the essentials you’ll need to keep in stock for your family. You’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils, because you won’t want to waste your precious water on dishwashing. If you have a pet, don’t forget pet food! Make sure to eat what you store. It’s important that you don’t just stockpile food and then forget about it, because the vast majority of foods do have a shelf-life that you’ll need to consider. You should stock the foods your family uses, and then as you use them make sure to continually replace them.
Boost Your Morale and Your Comfort Level
If you are going to be in a difficult situation for an extended period of time, you’ll need to take care of your family’s emotional and comfort needs as well, especially if you have children. While you can technically survive without supplies like feminine hygiene items and diapers, with a little forethought you won’t have to, and this is something you’ll appreciate if these things aren’t there when you need them. Having board games, books, musical instruments, pencils and papers, and other entertainment items will go a long way toward keeping everyone content. Every person and family is different and will have unique needs, so take the time to make a list of what your family requires before it is too late!