Most of the time, emergencies happen without any type of warning. This can leave people feeling unprepared and unsure of what their next steps should be. Whether or not you have an emergency survival kit for your family packed and ready to go, there are some simple household objects that you can turn into supplies for your kit or use them to enhance the family survival kit you already have.
Bleach
Who knew that your laundry room could hold an essential survival item? Your family survival kit should have enough water for you and your family. It is recommended that you pack 1 gallon per person per day and pack enough for a minimum of three days. However, if you have unscented bleach on hand, you can create your own drinking water. Mixing bleach with water can sanitize and disinfect any untreated water and make your water supply last longer.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is another household item you probably have on hand that you are definitely going to want to include in your family survival kit. Duct tape can be used for repairs or making a shelter should the need arise. Gorilla tape, or black duct tape, can be even more useful because it is weather resistant and can withstand moisture.
Flashlight
Flashlights, especially those that are not battery operated, can be extremely useful in emergency situations. If there is no other source of light or power, then a flashlight can be used to see objects and get yourself familiar with your bearings. You can also use flashlights to signal out morse code or send out an alert signal.
Trash bags
Trash bags are extremely useful in your family survival kit. They can be used in a variety of ways. First, is like their intended purpose, which is to hold trash. This can help with sanitation and keeping your campsite free of bacteria and helps to prevent pest infestations. Another way trash bags can be used is to collect fresh drinking water when it rains. Or, if you do not want to collect the water, you can use the trash bags as a water-proof shield for the things you want to be kept dry.
First Aid
A first aid kit is always good to have on hand, but especially during emergency situations. You never know what is going to happen and if you are going to need medical supplies, no matter how basic. A good first aid kit will have bandaids, tape, sponges, pads, sterilization wipes, gloves and other useful medical supplies. It might be good to make sure to also include some neosporin or other anti-bacterial cream. Always be sure to check the expiration dates on things in your first aid kit, and replace as needed.
Cotton Balls
Cotton balls are deceptively useful supplies for your family survival kit. They can be used for first aid purposes, in your ears or nose to plug them up, and they can also be used as kindling. Use them to start a fire for warmth or cooking purposes. Cotton balls dipped in petroleum jelly and candlewax work the best, but just normal cotton balls will also suffice.
You are more prepared for an emergency than you think if you have these everyday objects on hand. There are a lot of other household items that can be included in your survival kit as well, you just have to be creative. Civil Dispatch makes your safety a priority and makes prepping for a disaster easier than ever. Sign up today!