Preparedness Guides
Some of my friends and family asked for tips and references for emergency preparedness.
No-one wants to imagine suffering disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods or enemy attacks that can kill and disrupt lives and destroy property. In such circumstances two types of people emerge: those who prepared and are not a burden on recovery, and those who didn't and depend on others or the government for their very lives. Which would you rather be?
Be advised, having more than a week's groceries on hand could get you regarded as a 'terrorist' under the Patriot Act, qualifying you for detention at Guantanamo Bay.
Packs and Bags
You could just toss your emergency kit into a cardboard box or a duffel bag. But finding things later can be difficult in the dark and wet of a stormy or smoky night. Better to have a compartmentalized backpack. You will need at least 2500 cu. in. of space for a comprehensive 3-day kit. I prefer the MOLLE-ready types, due to their easy add-on feature.
Complete Kits
Food for Storage
Many of us can remember grandparents canning or 'putting up' surplus garden food or bulk-purchased produce in Mason or Ball jars. It can be a fun family experience to learn. Glass jars are fine for home storage but impractical for emergency kits due to their weight. These days it's better to stock up on light, hermetically sealed packs of freeze-dried foods. Look for read-to eat types or the kind that can be prepared by adding hot water to the pack. Water can be heated in a #2.5 or larger can over a small fire for preparation.