Power
Having an alternative
power supply is the key to your family's comfort and safety. Solar
is a wonderful, clean source of additional power. Solar power can
also be quite expensive to establish. A small generator is a good
alternative power supply for necessary household items. Generators
are generally small, mobile, and do not require excessive amounts
of fuel to provide power for long periods of time if used sparingly.
Light
Although not mandatory
for survival, light is an important issue to your family's comfort
and safety. An alternate light source, such as long term candles,
lanterns, or flashlights is recommended. Be sure to have plenty of
fuel or batteries available for your light source. An alternate power
source, such as a generator, will also solve many of your family's
lighting needs.
Heat
In colder areas
of the country, lack of heat can be life-threatening. Remember, without
electricity, even your gas furnace will not operate. An alternate
heat source, such as a wood stove, fireplace, extra blankets, sleeping
bags, or freestanding kerosene heater, can be a good source of heat
to provide comfort and survival for your family. Again, you may want
to rely on an alternate power source, such as a generator for electric
heaters, if large amounts of wood or alternate fuel sources are not
available.
First Aid
You should be
prepared to handle any first aid or emergency medical events without
the regular assistance of your local hospital. A comprehensive first
aid kit is highly recommended. You can obtain a basic first aid kit
manual from your local American Red Cross chapter. Also remember to
keep in mind special medical needs such as prescriptions, or special
long-term supplies for medical needs such as diabetes, asthma, etc.
Sanitation
Expect problems
with solid waste removal (garbage pickup) and possible problems with
wastewater removal. Bleach is a great disinfectant for toilet areas,
and cooking and food preparation areas. A plan should be made for
the removal of garbage, which can attract rodents and other animals.
Human waste removal is also important for health reasons. It is important
to have plenty of toilet paper, Towelettes (especially for small children,
or babies), liquid soap (antibacterial soap that does not require
water is available), Plastic garbage bags, porta-potties (portable
toilets), disinfectant, feminine supplies, baby needs (diapers, ointments),
contact lens solution, and other personal hygiene supplies.
Communication
Communication
is very important, and you should be prepared to not have any functioning
communication as we know it today (telephone, cell phones, television,
etc.). During these types of emergencies radio would be the most likely
source of information available. Make sure you have a portable radio,
and plenty of batteries or an alternative energy source, such as a
generator. The best option is to have a multipurpose radio that will
run off of batteries, electricity, solar, or even manual hand generation.
Basic Supplies
Be sure to have
the basics on hand. A non electric can opener, mess kits, matches,
basic sewing kit, plastic storage containers, alternate cooking source,
a saw or axe, shutoff wrench for household gas appliances or water
shutoff, pet supplies if applicable. You may also want to consider
some entertainment items to pass the time in the case of lack of electricity,
such as board games, playing cards, etc.
These are the
main areas of concern for your family's survival and good health.
Preparation is the key to how well any of us get through a difficult
situation. Again, our goal is to help you think through some major
areas of concern. You should take the time to plan out your individual
family's needs, and prepare accordingly.
This
list is intended to provide general information, and is distributed
with the understanding that the author is not engaging in rendering
legal, medical, or other professional services, and is not to be construed
as legal, medical, or technical advice.
