The coronavirus has hit the world with great ferocity. All over the world, people
are faced with painful possibilities. Certain countries have been particularly hard
hit in the aftermath of the virus. Many people are facing serious issues as a
result of this rapidly spreading illness. The future feels like a scary place right
now.People aren’t sure when the virus will have played out and when life can go
back to normal. One of the best ways to help over such feelings of fear is to find
ways to be as prepared as possible. Everyone today needs to have a survival kit
on hand.
Part of the process of reducing the impact of the epidemic has been having
people stay home. Staying home enables people to avoid contact with others.
People are urged to avoid going out anymore than necessary. That means having
things on hand in their home. A good survival kit has the advantage of allowing
people to remain in place as much as possible. Avoiding unnecessary trips to the
shops has the benefit of helping people avoid contact with others. Doing so will
reduce the spread of the coronavirus and protect all members of the community.
Some of the basics you’re going to want on hand right now include:
- Enough water for at least three days;
- A first aid kit;
- Any required weekly medications;
- Basic tools;
- Copies of important documents;
- Non perishable three day supply of food;
- Baby and children supplies;
- Extra cash.
Enough Water
Water is essential for life. People need to drink a certain amount each day just to
survive. In the middle of an epidemic such as this one, there may be issues with
water quality in your area. A problem with the pipes in your home can be hard to
fix right now. This is why everyone today should have at least enough water to
last for three days for all members of their household. Bottled water is another
option. Inexpensive water bottles can be stored in any room and kept around
until you need them. If you know your water is safe, think about taking existing
water bottles and filling them with a full supply. Make sure that each bottle can
be opened with ease. For variety, think about bringing flavored waters.
A First Aid Kit
Accidents happen all the time. When there’s a pandemic on, a local medical
office or emergency office can be a source of potential infection. This is the time
to have a means of helping people in your home in the event of an emergency.
That way, you can avoid going to a medical facility unless absolutely necessary.
A good first aid kit should include basics to help with many kinds of common
conditions. Think about issues that are likely to arise right now.
For example, if you live in a sunny climate, make sure you have items to treat a
bad sunburn and any bee stings. Think about the kind of medical conditions your
family has right now. If your child has suffered a sprained ankle in the past,
make sure you have an ace bandage to help reduce swelling. A good kit should
also include items to help stop the bleeding and keep any wounds clean.
All Medications
Many people take daily medications. In the event of a pandemic such
medications may experience supply issues. Contact your local pharmacists. Find
out if any prescriptions you are taking can be switched to a plan that allows you
to lay in a three month’s supply of medications. This should be done for all
members of your family including your pets. Over the counter medications
should also be on hand. Take some time to examine what’s in your medicine
cabinet. Stock up on medications such as basic pain relievers and other items
that can be used to alleviate temporary aches and pains.
Standard Tools
Tools are essential for any minor issues that crop up. It’s best to prevent them
from getting any worse. A leaky faucet can lead to other kinds of issues in the
home such as ruined tiles and flooring. Other kinds of tools are equally useful. A
hammer allows you to put up nails and items to hang things. A saw makes it
easier to chop firewood in the right size for your home fireplace. Keep all tools in
a single place. Make sure they’re protected so little kids won’t be tempted to
grab one and get hurt.
Important Documentation
In the midst of an pandemic, people may need to prove certain facts. This
includes their right to remain in a given location and receive aid or their right to
flee to another location. Make sure all important documents are stored in a place
where they can be easily gotten. Basic documents such as passports, social
security cards, marriage certificates and even a rental agreement or the deed to
a home should be stored in a protective place. If there are any missing
documents, think about contacting the issuing authorities. A medical office may
not have access to your insurance card right now. The issuing office can send
people any copies of the documents they need before they need to use them.
Food Supplies
Enough food should be on hand during the virus. Think about items that can last
a long time. Boxes of pasta and other starches like rice are ideal. Other items
can be used to bring in flavor and vitamins. Jarred tomato sauces and whole
tomatoes will keep for a long time. The same is true of canned or dried beans
and ready made soups. Other items can be kept around to add taste. Dried fruit
and lots of different kinds of nuts are easy to use for snacking. Many types of
cheese will keep for at least two weeks. Other dairy products like butter can be
kept in the freezer.
Baby and Children's Items
Babies have very special needs. A baby needs items like diapers, formula and
safe toys as well as bottles and nursing supplies. The same is true of older
children when kept at home. Confinement can be hard on little kids. They are
left without access to their friends and playground fun. Parents should lay in a
supply of items to keep kids of all ages happy. Games, books and other things
can be kept around to help make the most of those long days inside. Look for
developmentally appropriate items that can be stored away when not in use.
Additional Cash
If there’s an emergency, the banks may not be open. Credit card machines may
not be working. Head to your bank right now. Withdraw enough cash to cover
any immediate future needs. You might need to flee to a hotel if there’s a major
problem with your home or pay an plumber to fix a clogged toilet. Having extra
cash on hand is a good idea. Each adult member of the family should have a
certain amount of cash in a convenient place. You’ll be able to pay for things like
gas for your car and additional emergency supplies.
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