The tragic tsunami in Japan should be a reminder to all of us that this kind of devastation can happen at any time and any where. The question is “Are you prepared for such a disaster?”. Emergency Preparedness is about knowing what to do and what to have available.

There are things we should be prepared for. Things like power outages, severe blizzards, tornado’s, floods, or other emergencies and natural disasters your area could experience. I live in a rural area and something like a power outage means no running water or lights so I try to keep a five gallon container filled with water and plenty of spare batteries and candles at all times.

You need to ask yourself what would you do in the event of an emergency, what items are you going to need?. Possible items for emergency preparedness may be:

  • First aid kit
  • Water
  • Non-perishable food
  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • Radio
  • Necessary medications
  • Blankets
  • Cell Phone
  • Emergency phone numbers
  • Location of nearest public shelter

If a natural disaster happens in your area where is the safest place for you and your family to be for such a disaster. Keep in mind this place may be different for different types of natural disasters. For example, seek high ground in the event of a flood or seek shelter in the basement for a tornado.

The point is to be prepared so you can make the best of a bad situation. When you really think about it your camping gear and knowledge of primitive camping can be very useful in the event of an emergency. You can use your lanterns for light, your camping stove for cooking and your survival kit for other essential items.

Your tent and sleeping gear can be used for an emergency shelter if you are displaced from your home. Having your camping gear properly stored all together and organized can really help when you need it in the event of an emergency or to load it for a camping trip.

We hate to think anything bad is going to happen but to become complacent that it is not a possibility is not realistic. Take some time and organize your gear and gather the other items you will need for your survival kit if a disaster strikes. Find a spot in your home to store non-perishable food and water. Emergency preparedness is about being prepared for the events we do not have control of and having the will to survive.

Related posts:

  1. Camping Preparedness
  2. Camping Preparedness – Loading your ATV
  3. Camping Preparedness – Camping Gear & Supplies