Emergency Supplies

Meet Mr. Surefooted

Mr. Surefooted is confident that no emergency situation can beat him. An active boy scout when he was in grade school and a volunteer firefighter at present, he is always prepared for any disaster. One night, a tornado shows up and walks around the town, ruining everything along its way. Some stay in their houses, which are blown away by the massive whirling monster. Mr. Surefooted knows better. He immediately proceeds to his cellar, which is filled with everything someone in distress needs. Inside the cellar, he has a collection of flashlights. To his surprise, he realizes none of them work. He also has a box full of batteries but the new ones are mixed with the old ones.

In Disarray

It's not enough that you have all the supplies you will need in case of an emergency. You also need to organize them well. You may have a complete tool and first aid kit but you might find yourself unable to use them just because they are all over the place. Here are some of the tips that can help you in making sure that your emergency supplies are indeed reliable.

• Use everyday items. Many people shrug off the idea of having emergency supplies just because they are tight on their budget. You don't need to spend much on ensuring your safety. Find items that you use everyday that might also be useful when disaster strikes --- ropes, pens, clips, can-openers and knives.

• Shop. Yes, you can build an emergency set without spending any money, but if you have the means, why not spend some of your cash on emergency supplies that you don't have. After all, these items might save your life. It's okay not to be frugal this time. When you travel, always look for discount stores for anything that might be a great addition to your supplies.

• Sort out what you have gathered. Sort out metals from plastics. Group them according to their uses. Use separate containers.

• Allot an accessible place. Place all these supplies in the part of your house that is easily accessible. Don't keep them in the darkest corner of the attic. Make sure that if something happens, you can easily find and reach them. The basement or the cellar is ideal.

Rust and Cobwebs

Disasters have a nasty habit of sneaking up on you just when you don't expect them. Make it a conscious effort to build and organize your emergency supplies set. Always make sure that they are in good condition. Don't let rust and cobwebs ruin the “collection” you spent time building. However, pray that you won't ever have to use them. That's something Mr. Surefooted must have learned.