Saturday, November 30, 2013

Some Facts Regarding Emergency Survival Kits

By Susan Dawson


Emergency survival kits are a necessity for each one of us. They should always be within our reach at all times because they might be the difference between life and death. In creating this important tool, there are a number of things that you need to take into consideration. One of the most important of them is to know whether the kit in question will only be used only once and disposed of or is intended for several occasions. This will ensure that it is packaged as appropriate.

When creating the kit, it is important to ensure that you do not forget anything. At the same time, you should not overdo the exercise to the extent of making it burdensome. An important component of almost any survival pack is shelter. The shelter serves to protect you from all the forms of harsh weather conditions. Exposure to extremes may lead to potentially life-threatening conditions.

There are many different types of shelter that can be used based on individual preference. The most commonly used types include trash bags, tarps and tents. Each of these has disadvantages and advantages that should be considered. Some people rip nylon ponchos open and modify them into tents and this too may also work just fine.

Bedding that is chosen, should be light but still effective. Wool and fleece are the top two most popular choices. Both of these materials have the advantage of retaining heat even when wet. In addition, wool retards flames. Foil type blankets can be used as alternatives. They are easy to carry and are just as good as the other two. You should avoid materials made of cotton as much as possible.

The minimum of water ranges between 130 and 160 oz for each person per day. This is the amount recommended for drinking only. Proper packaging to avoid contamination by microorganisms is important. This can be achieved by the use of sterilized bottles, water bags and clean reusable containers. The shelf life of bottled water is close to five years but replacement should be done as regularly as possible.

The choice of food to be carried will be dictated by the tastes and preferences of the individual. What you need to ensure is that there is balance among the food groups and there is just enough sources of minerals and vitamins. On average, about 2000 calories will be required for each person on a daily basis. To save on space, foods that do not require the use of utensils are preferred. Granola and food bars are not just easy to package but are also ready to eat.

Other items that should be considered after the very essential have been packed include hygiene items such as soap, toilet paper and towels. First aid contents in the kit include painkillers, antibiotics, wound cream, gauze rolls and anticoagulants among others. Important rescue aids include whistles, a pocket knife, a small rope and a crank radio.

There are no hard and fast rules that guide the creation of emergency survival kits. The contents depend on what the owner deems as being important. The above are just guidelines that can help one not forget crucial items. Once the items have been identified, they should be packed in an accessible, waterproof bag.




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