subject: Things to Consider When Preparing a Survival Kit [print this page] When preparing a survival kit there are basic elements to consider. Whether you buy an assembled survival kit or put one together yourself there are certain things that must be included. Basic items to be included are a strong disinfectant such as iodine or peroxide, as well as bandages or gauze (which could be used as a tourniquet), and medical tape. A small tube of antibiotic ointment and a knife or small pair of scissors will be necessary. Add several doses of any prescription medications needed, some oral and topical pain relievers and strips or liquid to close a wound.
Important items to include in your survival kit would be a phone, a battery operated radio, flashlights and several extra batteries. Spare eyeglasses or contacts with solution would be advisable. Additional items like an alarm, air horn, or whistles along with a compass will be invaluable. There should be some matches in a waterproof box. Basic tools to be in your kit are razor blades, a small hacksaw, a sharp knife, heavy gloves and a hand sized pry bar. If you should become trapped these tools will become very important.
If you must leave your home, the survival kit must have items that shield everyone from the weather. A blanket for each person, a tarpaulin or small tent, even a package of heavy trash bags is useful. Insect repellent wipes or candles and matches in a waterproof container and a tube of sun block will be valuable. Food is essential to your survival even in the short term. Include a few small reusable bottles of water for each person. A container for filtering water using disinfecting tablets is necessary.
To keep up your energy and elevate your blood sugar, include some hard candy and sugar cubes in the kit. Also, add small packages of foods that contain carbohydrates, this will aid in keeping up your strength. Little packets of dried fruits and nuts, packaged granola bars and candy will be welcomed. Envelopes of soup mix, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, even powdered sports drinks are easy to pack and will add to the hydration necessary to survive. Personal hygiene will be important, bring the basics. Antibacterial soap and sanitizer wipes, toilet paper, feminine hygiene articles will serve well. Keeping the size of the articles to a minimum is easier these days because of the packaging available. Gather your survival kit articles into airtight storage bags that allow you to remove all of the air. These are readily available most everywhere and will keep everything safe and free of moisture and pests. Place your survival kit in a convenient place where everyone can find it.
