You can never be too prepared for an emergency. Though it's easy to think you'll never find yourself in a survival situation, there's simply no way of knowing when disasters such as earthquakes, blizzards, or floods will strike. Therefore, survival gear is important to have anywhere, whether it's at home, on the road, or in the office. However, it's equally important to understand that the supplies you'll need will vary based on your location. While there's no way to be prepared for every possible scenario, thorough preparation will ensure that you're as ready as possible for potential survival situations.
Know your setting
Customizing your survival supplies kit relies on identifying both your geographical setting as well as your current situation. For example, if you are responsible for ensuring your workplace is emergency-ready, you'll need to make sure there are enough supplies for everyone in the office and that you are prepared for the most likely disaster. Whereas some locales may be prone to flooding, others could receive massive snowfalls that leave workers stranded.
In survival situations, the Federal Emergency Management Agency advises three days' worth of water (1 gallon per person per day), three days' worth of non-perishable food, a comprehensive first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, sanitation supplies, and pliers or a wrench, among other essential emergency items.
Preparing for survival at home requires the same type of preparation, but is done on a smaller scale for your family. FEMA recommends ensuring your family has enough food and water for pets and notes that having activities around for children is also a good idea. Moreover, the organization advises each home to have access to local maps, cash or traveler's checks, warm blankets and clothing, emergency reference materials, and matches in a waterproof container.
"Creating a disaster plan can be implemented in any setting."
Make an emergency plan
No matter if you're at home, work, or traveling, having an emergency plan in place can make all the difference in survival. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests creating a family disaster plan, but this idea can easily be implemented in other settings. Again, developing a disaster plan relies on knowing your setting. For example, if you live in an area prone to earthquakes, knowing where to seek shelter and the safest path to get there is imperative. These plans can easily be practiced (such as fire drills) to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
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