Those who haven’t put together household emergency survival and getaway kits should do so now. You never know what’s just around the corner and it pays to be prepared for anything and everything.
 
Your emergency kit must contain the following items:
Torch and spare batteries
Radio and spare batteries
First aid kit and essential medicines
Waterproof clothing, sun hats and suitable shoes for wearing outdoors
Blankets or sleeping bags
Supplies for your pets
Face and dust masks
Emergency toilet along with toilet paper and rubbish bags (large)
Food and Water for three days or more
Non-perishable food (canned or dried food)
Food, formula and drinks for babies and small children
Water for drinking – minimum of three litres per person, per day
Water for washing and cooking
Something to cook on – a primus or gas barbecue
Can opener
 
You might want to consider storing a two-week supply of food and water in case of a prolonged emergency such as a pandemic.
 
In some cases it may not be possible stay in your home so it’s essential to put together a getaway kit and store it in an easily accessible place. This is a separate kit to your survival kit. It may seem like you are doubling up on some items but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
 
Your ‘Getaway’ kit must contain the following:
Torch and spare batteries
Radio and spare batteries
First aid kit and essential medicines
Water and easy-to-carry food rations
Extra supplies for special dietary items
Formula, food and nappies for infants and small children
Waterproof clothing, sun hats and suitable shoes for wearing outdoors
Essential toiletries – towel, soap, toothbrush, sanitary items, toilet paper
Blankets or sleeping bags
Supplies for your pets
Important documents such as identification (birth and marriage certificates/driver’s licences and passports), financial paperwork (insurance policies and mortgage) and precious family photos or documents.
 
Tips on storing water:
Before storing water wash bottles thoroughly in hot water. Fill each bottle with tap water until it overflows. Add five drops of household bleach per litre of water (or half a teaspoon for 10 litres). 
 
It’s one thing to put together these kits but you must remember to maintain them. This is crucial. All food and water needs to be checked and replaced every 12 months. Batteries have a much shorter shelf life and should be replaced every three months.
 
Article by Emma Smith

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