Top 10 things you need in a disaster
Be prepared in an emergency
Having the right equipment readily available after a disaster gives you and your family the best chances of getting through the disaster safely. We’ve created a list of 10 items we recommend putting aside and having available in case of an emergency situation.
We also encourage you to follow official Government and Civil Defense advice.
1) Water
Everyone needs water! Keep a durable bottle of water with you and look for opportunities to refill your bottle with clean water where and when you can. Having a bottle with a water filter is even better.
2) Soap/Sanitizer
During a disaster, the risk of disease can be heightened. Broken pipes, unclean water, and emergency living situations can make you more susceptible to sickness. Having soap and sanitizer available can minimize this risk.
3) Torch
A torch with spare batteries or a self-charging torch is helpful, especially if a disaster happens at night. Power is often temporarily unavailable and a torch may be your only means of seeing.
4) Spare Clothing
Wind and waterproof clothing such as a light jacket, along with clean underwear, sun hats, and strong outdoor shoes, can provide more comfort, warmth, and protection.
5) First Aid Kit
If you’re hurt in a disaster situation, having a first aid kit is vital. Treating wounds with the right tools in your kit can prevent any infection. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it’s important you have the right supplies and medication with you.
6) Blankets or Sleeping Bags
If you need to evacuate your home and spend the night somewhere else, a blanket or sleeping bag can provide warmth and protection. Your best option will be a waterproof sleeping bag.
7) Emergency Toilet
In a disaster, many facilities can be damaged and unavailable. By having spare toilet paper and a rubbish bag, you can create an emergency toilet.
8) Battery Pack
If you have your phone or other device with you, a battery pack can be helpful in keeping your phone alive. By using your phone you can receive government emergency mobile updates, contact family and friends, and stay up to date with the emergency situation. Reception may not be available after a disaster, but if it is a battery pack can ensure your phone lasts longer.
9) Important Documents
If you have a safe amount of time to evacuate, taking any important documents with you may be useful. This includes identification documents (birth and marriage certificates, driver’s licenses, and passports), your wallet, financial documents (insurance policies and mortgage information), and precious family photos.
10) Digitized Documents
The best option is to also have a digital copy of these documents that can be accessed if needed.
Want to learn more?
You can download and print your own checklist here.
Want to help others?
ADRA provides relief to families in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. We work in partnership with local communities to conduct a needs assessment and have prepositioned stock in many disaster-prone areas. As a registered charity, we are accountable to our donors and to the government, so every dollar is tracked to ensure it is being used as efficiently as possible to help people when and where it is needed most.
You can donate to our disaster and preparedness relief fund by clicking the button below.
