Items Needed in Emergency Mobilization Kits

The time to begin preparing for an emergency is not when you notice the emergency beginning, but long in advance, when you have time to think about it and do it properly. It is the nature of emergency preparedness to think about unlikely events, so don't be conservative in your preparations. It's far better to have an emergency kit on hand that you never use, than to be caught in an unexpected event without one.

Water

• Water is the most basic necessity of survival. You can survive without food far longer than without water. According to the Coquitlam, BC, municipal website, an emergency kit should include at least a gallon of water per person per day. If you are storing the water for a long period of time, it's best to use distilled water to minimize the risk of bacteria developing in it. Store the water in glass jars if possible. Avoid any containers that may have held non-potable substances. Rotate your stored water by periodically using a container of it and replacing it with another one.

Food

• Stored food supplies can be a critical hedge against panic if something goes awry in your area. Whether it's a natural disaster that stops transportation and food supplies or domestic unrest that confines you to your home, you will be safer and more comfortable if you have food on hand. Canned food and dry staples are the best for emergency situations. Frozen food will serve you for a while, but if your power goes out for an extended period, frozen food will eventually spoil. As with your water, you should rotate your food stores so you don't end up with rations that are years old.

Light Source

• In the event that power supplies are interrupted, you will be left in the dark if you aren't prepared. Equip your emergency kit with a flashlight and batteries. Also include some candles and matches.

Warmth

• If you are hit by an emergency in the winter, it may compromise the heat source in your home. Your emergency kit should include ways to keep yourself warm in the absence of electricity or a furnace. This can include good sleeping bags, extra blankets and even a store of firewood.

Communication

• A small radio with stored batteries may be critical to help you keep in touch with the world. You can also buy radios that are charged with a crank, which would allow you to listen even if your batteries were lost or dead. A cellphone with extra batteries may also prove to be a lifesaver in an emergency situation.

Security

• Depending on your situation, different forms of security may be appropriate. Signal flares may be useful if you find yourself in a situation where you need to go across country or into roadless areas. Weapons may be called for, although you should never be in possession of a weapon unless you are fully trained and confident in its use, and are ready to use it.