Preparing for a big storm or another catastrophe should start well before the news announces it. Your family needs to be sure that it has enough supplies and equipment on hand. Here are some tips to get you started in the right direction today.
Stockpile Food and Water
You should have at least three days’ worth of food and water stockpiled in a safe location. Since storms often leave a lot of cleanup work after they hit, think about foods that are already prepared. Tuna and cracker lunch boxes, beef jerky and meal replacement bars are just a few of the things that you might want to consider. You should also stockpile at least one gallon of water per person per day. You will want to keep it all in a sturdy container.
Get a Generator
You will need to be able to power some things in your home. Start by deciding what things you cannot live without. Then, add up the power used by them to determine the size of generator that you need from a company like Mason Propane. Trying to run appliances without enough power can damage them, so make sure you obtain one that is large enough. As you can see, these reliable generators can be lifesaving after a storm.
Stash Money
While you may think that it is safer to just use your debit or credit card most of the time, you still should keep some cash on hand. Remember that the debit machine and most stores will not be open without electricity. You may find, however, a few merchants who are willing to sell you basic essentials if you can pay cash for them. You may want to keep cash in a secret location in your home so that you will not be tempted to spend it. Many experts recommend you keep $100 in small bills put up somewhere.
Stock a First Aid Kit
Emergencies often mean that you need to pick up debris and do other repairs around your home. Unfortunately, that often leads to more injuries. Make sure that you have a well-stocked first aid kit before a storm hits. If you take lifesaving medicines, have an adequate supply on hand. You should also keep a copy of your shot record and other important documents in a safe location.
There are many things that you need to think about before a storm or other natural disaster occurs. Use this list to help you start preparing.
