Emergency Supplies: What You Need and How to Store Them

In any emergency or disaster, it’s best to be prepared at all times. You don’t want to already be in the emergency situation and not have the supplies you need for survival. So what are the basic items that you should prepare beforehand? 

What emergency supplies do you need? 

Non-perishable food

This is one of the most basic things you can prepare for you and your family. Having canned goods, noodles, and other items that can be kept longer than fresh food is necessary in case grocery stores or supermarkets are inaccessible. Make sure you have enough for a week or two to be safe. Have your PPlus card on hand when you buy canned goods and frozen products at the Virginia Factory Outlets so you can avail of our benefits. 

Water

A gallon of water per person a day should be prepared in case clean drinking water is not available. Having a gallon a day per person ensures they have enough to drink and sanitize should there be a need. Make sure you’ve stored enough water for at least 3 days. 

Medicine Kit

Whether it’s over-the-counter medication or prescription medication, you have to have at least 2 weeks’ worth of medicine. Make sure that your kit has pain relievers, bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibacterial ointment, hydrocortisone or any anti-itch cream, and hot/cold compress. If you need medical attention during this time, our partner establishments at Maayo Well and San Lucas Medical are available to cater to your needs. 

Toiletries

Stock up on soap, shampoo, toilet paper, alcohol and other things necessary for hygiene so that you are prepared for the worst. This doesn’t mean that you should be hoarding toilet paper or alcohol. An emergency supply should last you for a month.

Energy Source

Three things you should be prepared with are heat, electric/gas, light sources. Candles, lamps, and flashlights are vital during blackouts. A heat source such as a portable gas stove can be used to cook food. Lastly, if you can prepare a gas-powered generator beforehand, that can be of use to you if you need backup electricity. 

How do you store your supplies? 

Here are some tips for you to store your emergency supplies effectively. 

Tip # 1: Always remember FIFO or First In, First Out. Your food should be arranged according to their expiry date. Make sure the ones that you use first have the most recent expiry dates so the ones you’ve stored at the back will last much longer. Throw out any expired non-perishable food. 

Tip # 2: Store items such as medicine for individual needs in separate plastic bags. If someone has prescription medication, make sure they have it in their own plastic bag so that they have easy access to it. Store all valuables and important documents as well in waterproof containers/duffel bags so you can readily take them in case of an emergency. 

Tip # 3: Find a space that makes all your emergency light/heat/energy sources easily accessible and that there is a designated area for them. Having a space where you can find these items during an emergency will make it easier for you and your family members. 

What should you keep in mind during emergencies?

It’s important not to panic during emergency situations as this helps you to have a clear mind on what to do and what you need. As we continue to brace ourselves for the COVID19 crisis, we should be mindful of ourselves as well as others by not hoarding any supplies and sharing the extra resources that we have. Helping each other out during a time of crisis is vital for everyone’s survival.