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Essentials Of Emergency Survival Kits

By Susan Dawson


Emergency survival kits are a necessity for each one of us. They should always be within our reach at all times because they might be the difference between life and death. In creating this important tool, there are a number of things that you need to take into consideration. One of the most important of them is to know whether the kit in question will only be used only once and disposed of or is intended for several occasions. This will ensure that it is packaged as appropriate.

While it is important to have as many things as possible with you, you also need to be cautious to avoid taking what is not an absolute necessity. Too many items will make the kit rather burdensome. Doing some research beforehand will help in coming up with a list that will have the most essential items. One of the items regarded as being very essential is shelter. Shelter, albeit temporary, will help protect you from harmful weather conditions.

There are a number of different forms of shelter that one can choose from. Popular choices include tents, trash bags and tarps. All have their advantages and disadvantages. A common practice is to rip nylon ponchos open and to modify them into tents. Virtually any light material will do. Make sure you have some ropes and stakes to help the erection.

The choice of bedding is determined by two main factors; weight and the functionality. Wool and fleece are both light and very warm. As a matter of fact these two materials can retain heat even when wet. This makes them appropriate for use in almost any weather condition. Wool has the additional advantage of being a flame retardant. The other alternative that can be considered in the absence of these two is foil type blankets.

The minimum of water ranges between 130 and 160 oz for each person per day. This is the amount recommended for drinking only. Proper packaging to avoid contamination by microorganisms is important. This can be achieved by the use of sterilized bottles, water bags and clean reusable containers. The shelf life of bottled water is close to five years but replacement should be done as regularly as possible.

The choice of food to be carried will be dictated by the tastes and preferences of the individual. What you need to ensure is that there is balance among the food groups and there is just enough sources of minerals and vitamins. On average, about 2000 calories will be required for each person on a daily basis. To save on space, foods that do not require the use of utensils are preferred. Granola and food bars are not just easy to package but are also ready to eat.

Hygiene items such as toilet paper, soap, wash clothes, towels and toothbrushes are not an absolute necessity but make life a bit more comfortable. A first aid kit may be needed at one time or the other. Some of the items to have in this kit include painkillers, gauze rolls, wound cream, antibiotics and some blood anticoagulant. Rescue aids and essential tools include a source of light, a whistle, a pocket knife, multi-purpose pair of pliers, a small rope and a crank radio.

There are no specific guidelines when it comes to preparation of personalised emergency survival kits. The nature of the contents will be determined by what one thinks is really important to them. If one is sick for example, then medication for their problem becomes a very important item. Once you have your list work out, you now need to get a proper waterproof bag whose contents can be accessed with ease.




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