Be it a global pandemic or extreme weather event, it can be difficult if not impossible to predict when disaster will strike. Even if you are a seasoned survivalist. If an emergency situation should occur in Westside, IA, it is imperative that you have a plan in place for your household.
The best place to start in formulating an emergency plan is with a checklist.
In the event that Westside loses power, you aren't able to leave your home, or someone in your group falls ill or gets injured, a properly-equipped household will help avoid further inflaming the situation.
Here is a list of all the essential items to have on your emergency checklist.
Toolkit and Emergency Supplies:
From duct tape to extra batteries, you never know what kind of simple tools and equipment you might need. Here are some things you should always have in your home:
Food Checklist:
If you are unable to leave your home or advised not to, make sure you have enough food stocked up to last you for at least a few weeks. Canned and non-perishable foods are cabinet essentials, as well as non-meat sources of protein. Here's our list (and make sure you have a can opener!):
Pro Tip: Hunting for food
An alternative way to keep your freezer filled with protein is to go hunting.
North American game ranges from whitetail deer to wild hogs, so there isn't any shortage of high-quality meat to be hunted. Be sure to consult Iowa's hunting regulations, permit requirements, and seasonal schedule before stepping afield.
Hunting your own meat is also a sustainable and health-conscious way to feed your family. Wild game is fully unprocessed and isn't loaded with antibiotics, so you know you are getting fresh and nutritionally-rich protein. Skipping out on the factory-farmed meats is also a lot more eco-friendly.
When the meat section is cleared-out during crisis, you can have the peace of mind that your freezer is full.
First Aid Kit:
If someone in your group falls ill or gets injured, have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. Your kit should include:
The Be Smart Get Prepared First Aid Kit includes the majority of our recommended emergency supplies. You, or someone in your group, could get injured in a dangerous situation. To clean up and correctly dress wounds, you will need gauze, antiseptic wipes or antibiotic ointments, and properly-sized bandages. If someone gets a splinter or a tick, you're going to need tweezers. And make sure you're doing all of your wound care while wearing a pair of disposable gloves to avoid contact with germs, blood, or other bodily fluids.
Medication:
Make sure your medicine cabinet is well-stocked. Having the necessary medication for all members of your household can help avoid a potentially disastrous health event.
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