Easy DIY Prep Area (Plus Free Download: Family Emergency Guide Book)

by Cassondra

3 Materials

$300

4 Hours

Easy

Everyone should have emergency supplies. With all the craziness that has been going on around the world today with the hurricanes, earthquake and fires, I wanted to write a quick post about prepping. While admittedly I would be one of the many people who are mostly unprepared, I have finally began to take some steps in protecting my family if disaster does strike.

I created a small space in my basement where we can store water, canned food and other necessary items. To do this, I first found some small shelving. Next, I researched water storage and while I was tempted just to fill up whatever canisters I could find, I actually opted for the “Waterbrick” system. These are stack-able water storage containers that don’t take up a lot of space and are not too heavy to be portable. Each brick holds 3.5 gallons of water. My set came with 8 bricks, so we instantly have 28 gallons stocked. (The company makes food storage bricks as well.)

Next, I added all of my extra dry food and canned food items to the shelves. (Finally I have a place to put my pickle stash!) I also bought a giant can of peanut butter and plan on buying some more filling, high protein items. I added some matches, blankets, flashlights, rope, a can opener and other tools to the mix. Admittedly, I still have much to add, but it is a start.

Here is what is recommended for people to have ready: (from https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/90354)

Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener for food
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Prescription medications
Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
Glasses and contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Cash or traveler’s checks
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

It is also a good idea to have an element-proof box for important documents and a plan in place if something happens and you get separated. It may also be smart to keep food water and emergency supplies in your car as well. Also, a knife, tools and perhaps a weapon may be needed.

As a finishing touch for our emergency area, I created a quick Emergency Guide printout for our family. It has everyone’s phone numbers, meeting places and pictures of everyone (including pets) within the book. This could be helpful if someone gets lost. It isn’t very pretty at the moment, but you are welcome to download and fill out your own guide, just in case. I would also laminate it and bind it so it is protected from the elements a little better.

It’s a crazy world out there. I am thinking and praying for the people in Florida and around the country going through these disasters. Please be safe.

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