72 Hour Emergency Kits - The Bare Minimum
Several years ago, the Federal government began advocating US citizens put together what they called 72 hour emergency kits
. Today, these are also known as bug out bags, GOOD (Get Out Of Dodge) bags, GHBs (Get Home Bags), and Evacuation Kits. The reason they were called 72 hour emergency kits was because the government estimated that in the event of a major crisis, it would take approximately three days for them to have their agencies on site rendering assistance. Thus, people should have enough supplies on hand to get them through those first 72 hours on their own.
Realistically, that 72 hour benchmark should be treated as a bare minimum estimate. As we saw in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, a major crisis could quickly overwhelm most government agencies. So, consider a 72 hour emergency kit to be the absolute minimal amount of supplies to have on hand at all times. Once you've accomplished that much, work toward increasing your supplies.
What should be in the 72 hour emergency kits? Your basic needs include water, food, shelter, first aid, and hygiene.
Water -- the human body can't last much more than three days without water. It takes far less time before the first effects of dehydration are felt. Various experts suggest a minimum of one gallon of potable water per person, per day. So, for a family of four, this would be twelve gallons of water. Again, consider this to be an absolute bare minimum figure. Doubling it would be much more reasonable. Store the water in clean containers, such as 2L soda bottles. Do not use washed out plastic milk jugs. These don't hold up well for long-term storage and develop leaks.
Food -- forget about expensive dehydrated meals. Stock up on ready-to-eat canned and pouch food like tuna, chicken, and beef. Add granola bars, crackers, and peanut butter. While it is best to have foods you don't need to do anything with other than open the package before you eat it, canned soups and stews can be heated over a campfire or a BBQ grill.
Drink mixes, teas, and instant coffee can be a tremendous morale boost as well. Don't forget paper plates and bowls as well as plastic utensils. You don't want to have to use any of your stored water to clean dishes.
Shelter -- here, we are referring to not only a roof over your head but clothing as well. It is hoped that your home will remain structurally sound and you won't have to rough it in a tent. But, get the tent anyway, just in case. Be sure to always have enough blankets to go around, especially in the winter months. Rather than turn old clothes into rags, keep at least a couple sets of clothing for each family member set aside. Keep jackets and coats in good condition, mending them as needed.
First aid -- every home should have a basic first aid kit. Be sure to stock up on adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, latex gloves, and pain relievers such as Tylenol and ibuprofen.
Add to that your favorite over the counter remedies for nausea, gastrointestinal distress, and don't forget child medications if that's an issue in your family. Also, keep an extra supply of prescription medications for everyone who takes them.
Hygiene -- always have plenty of toilet paper on hand. There are alternatives to TP but most of them are less than ideal. Soap, hand sanitizer, and baby wipes will go a long way to helping you keep clean. Doing so will help cut down on possible infections and illnesses.
by: Steve Thibeault
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