How to be prepared for an emergency

Whether it be a natural disaster or an accident, unfortunately it is fair game for anyone to be hurt at anytime. The good news is we can be prepared. From my days as an emergency medical technician and through research, here is a sample of a first aid kit:

Things you should have in one place (I recommend a cheap duffel bag or a storage type container):

1. sterile gloves (ex. latex or nitrile)

2. sterile dressings to help stop bleeding (ex. gauzes)

3. cleansing agent (ex. antibiotic towlettes, Bactine, saline solution)

4. antibiotic ointment (ex. Neosporin)

5. burn ointment/ gel

6. adhesive bandages (variety)

7. tape

8. eye irrigating solution/ eye wash

9. prescription and non-prescription medications

10. scissors

11. instant cold compresses

12. Elastic bandages (ex. Ace wraps)

Psychologically

• list of emergency phone numbers and addresses

  Talk with your family about places to meet/go or signs to leave in case the phone is down. Having a plan ahead of time can help you prepare for the chaos that arises with an emergency.

Basic Needs: (these things can be kept in a trash can in an easily accessible area)

1. Food

   Canned goods, dehydrated foods (can buy at camping supply stores), water, dried fruits. These tend to have long shelf-life. You can always eat them when it’s time to switch it out too so it never goes to waste.

2. Clothing

   Keeping extra clothing is always good.

3. Sleeping bags/space blanket

4. Tent