Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Have These Bug Out Bag Supplies

By Claudine Hodges


People have become much more aware of the need to be prepared for any type of natural or manmade disaster. Most, have food staples, water, and first aide items stored and ready for when needed. But the reality may be that you cannot stay home and weather it out. You may have to run. If that is the case where you are, then having basic bug out bag supplies ready to go, can mean your evacuation will be successful.

The most important item to carry with you or have accessible is clean drinking water. It takes one liter of water per person per day to survive, so pack three litters. Also, have iodine tablets and a small pot for boiling water.

Next item to consider is food. Camping and backpacking meals are easy to find at most stores and on the internet. Meals Ready to Eat (MRE) are packaged meals developed for the military and can be eaten cold or hot. Add protein bars, nuts, and even some hard candy to your supplies.

You will need to have clothing that you would wear while camping or backpacking ready also. Have a pair of sturdy boots or shoes sitting next to your pack so you can put them on as you evacuate. You also need to have two shirts for layering, a jacket that will keep you warm and protect you from the rain, a hat and bandana, two pairs of socks, and warm long underwear.

You will need shelter. Always consider the area and weather conditions you will be in. Have a tent or tarp to sleep under and stay dry. It is going to be important to stay dry so be sure to have a ground tarp or sleeping pad. A good sleeping bag or some type of bedroll will come in handy.

Plus, do not forget your first aid kit. You can purchase one that has already been put together but it is better to build your own. By doing it yourself, you know intimately what is in it and how to use it. Fill it with basics, then add items specific to your needs. You should have any prescription medications, allergy and diarrhea medicines, sun block, and instant cold/ice packs, in case of sprained ankles or wrists.

You might be thinking that is all you need, but no, there are more items that are also vital to survival. Such as a hatchet for cutting firewood, a knife for all kinds of uses, a small pot or large cup for boiling water to drink or heat food. You also need matches, a lighter, and know how to start a fire without either.

Hopefully you will never need to use your bag. However, you do not want to find yourself unprepared. Be certain to include the listed items first, then add to them anything else you can carry and feel you will need to make it through three days or longer if needed. Having these few items can save your life.




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