A Knife
Include a small, lightweight pocket or utility knife in your survival kit. You can use it to prepare food and for other basic outdoor tasks. Make sure you keep the blade clean and sharp at all times because you’ll need it to cut through tough materials like rope, canvas, and plastic. Make sure to sharpen the knife every year. A metal spoon will also come in handy and a fork-though not as much as a knife! Buy one that folds for easy carrying if possible. If you’re heading into the wilderness, put these items into your pack before you leave home, so they’re ready to go.
A First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have in any emergency. Keep it stocked with supplies for scrapes, cuts, sprains, and burns. It’s a good idea to add insect repellent if you get bit by a mosquito or other bug. If your child is old enough to participate in this activity, ask him/her to help put the kit together! Replace bandages and medicines every year.
Blankets And Coats
A blanket will come in handy if you’re stranded outdoors during cold weather. You can use it for warmth and protection from moisture when sleeping outdoors on cold nights. A light jacket will also keep you warm on cool mornings and evenings but be sure to include only compact, lightweight items such as these if possible. You don’t want to lug around a heavy coat when you’re trying to pack light. Replace coats and blankets if they ever seem to get worn out.
Battery Powered Radio
You never know what might happen during an emergency; you could end up stuck in your car or a building with a poor signal on your cell phone. A battery-powered radio is a perfect backup. It provides peace of mind and information about any major disasters that have taken place. You can choose one that has a hand crank, so you don’t have to worry about getting batteries for it, though they will still be useful as well! Keep this item in your kit all year round, replacing them every couple of years.
Flashlight
Flashlights are especially important when it’s dark outside, or you’re trying to find your way in the dark. Select a small one that uses AA batteries since they’re easier to find if something happens and you can’t locate spare batteries. Include at least two sets of new, extra-strength batteries for the flashlight in your kit with an extra bulb or two. Check the flashlight regularly to make sure it still works properly.
Multi-Tool
A utility tool like a multi-tool is extremely helpful in an emergency. “Multi” means many, so this device contains many different tools you’ll need on hand during an emergency, such as screwdrivers, scissors, tweezers, and knives. You can even use it as a wrench if necessary! Keep this tool in your kit all year, replacing them every couple of years.
Dust Mask
A dust mask can come in handy when you’re caught outdoors without shelter during fires. The mask filters out the dangerous particles released into the air by wildfires or other disasters. Dust masks are disposable, making them very compact – perfect for an emergency survival kit. If you decide to include one of these masks in your kit, make sure you pack several because they don’t last long.
Conclusion
In the event of an emergency, having a survival kit on hand can save your life or that of a loved one. While you may not need it every day, it’s important to have these items readily available for any type of disaster. Select items from this list and pack them in a durable container ready to go at all times. Keep it in your car and your home and replace the items regularly, so you are always prepared if disaster strikes!
