subject: Emergency preparedness – Isn't it important? [print this page] For many latter-day saints, emergency preparedness seems an overwhelming task. It perpetually occupies a spot near the bottom of the "to do" listwe don't want to forget about it, but neither do we want to make the time for it. But we should remember that it's important to heed prophetic counsel regarding physical as well as spiritual matters.
The first step in emergency preparedness is to have a family plan and ensure that everyone knows how to follow it. Discuss the different kinds of emergencies that can happen and what you should do in each instance. The more you emphasize this information and practice responding, the better prepared your family will be and the more quickly they will be able to react in the event of a real emergency. Ensure that everyone in the family knows how to shut off utilities if necessary
Family home evening is a great time to practice basic first aid techniques. Be sure to have a well-stocked first aid kit in your home. Remember that medicines and other medical supplies may have expiration dates and should be rotated regularly.
Food storage is perhaps the most daunting aspect of preparedness to consider. Given the ready-made foods most of us eat daily, buckets of flour and beans seem bewildering and unappetizing. And pre-packaged, military-style meals have the reputation of tasting like glue. But the fact is that gathering food storage is easier than ever before. The Church has made available a variety of resources to assist in planning and obtaining a year's supply, including pamphlets and websites such as providentliving.org. You can now even buy basic food storage items through church distribution centers. For those of us with limited space (and financial resources), church leaders have counseled us to begin with a three-month supply. This can be accomplished by simply purchasing a few extra items as we do our regular shopping, and then rotating the items to use them before they expire.
Other supplies you will need include warm clothing, heat and light, and supplies for cooking and bathing. Consider all your daily activities and think about how you would meet your needs in each situation if you had to leave your home.
There are numerous stores which sell emergency supplies. Spend some time in one of these stores to familiarize yourself with the kinds of supplies you might need. This is especially helpful if you have not spent much time camping, and might not realize the need to procure safe drinking water.
Emergency preparedness essentially consists of obtaining knowledge and supplies. By working with your family to create a plan, you can develop that knowledge and turn an overwhelming task into a great way to spend time with each other. And by gathering food and other items gradually, you can reduce the financial burden and ensure that you'll have everything you need to take care of your family, rain or shine.
