HOW TO START BUILDING AN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN

HOW TO START BUILDING AN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN

by J. A. Tiscareno

March 30, 2025

Emergencies can strike without warning, leaving individuals and families vulnerable. From natural disasters to power outages and supply chain disruptions, having a solid emergency preparedness plan ensures that you and your loved ones stay safe and self-sufficient. Whether you are new to preparing for emergencies or refining your existing plan, this guide will help you build a comprehensive approach using essential survival gear such as the AquaBrick Water Filtration System, DuraFlo Filter, AquaBrick Food and Water Storage Containers, Kelly Kettle Base Camp Ultimate Kit, and the XStream Straw.

Step 1: Understanding the Importance of Emergency Preparedness

Before gathering supplies, it’s crucial to assess potential risks in your area. Are you prone to hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, or winter storms? Identifying threats helps you tailor your emergency preparedness checklist to your specific needs.

Key Considerations:

  • Types of disasters: Natural vs. man-made emergencies.
  • Evacuation plans: Safe routes and destinations.
  • Communication plans: Contact lists and emergency alerts.
  • Medical needs: Prescriptions, first aid, and special conditions.

Step 2: Water Storage and Purification

Access to clean drinking water is critical in any emergency. The general rule is to store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least two weeks. Understanding how to prepare and store emergency water can make a difference in survival situations.

Recommended Products:

  • AquaBrick Water Filtration System: Removes bacteria, viruses, and harmful contaminants from non-saltwater sources.
  • DuraFlo Filter: Provides high-capacity filtration for long-term use.
  • AquaBrick Food and Water Storage Containers: Stackable, durable, and perfect for bulk water storage.
  • XStream Straw: A lightweight, portable water filter for on-the-go emergencies.

Step 3: Food Storage and Cooking Solutions

Having non-perishable food supplies is just as important as clean water. Your emergency preparedness kit supplies should include long-lasting, easy-to-prepare food items.

Essential Food Storage and Cooking Items:

  • AquaBrick Food Storage Containers: Keep dry goods protected from moisture and pests.
  • Kelly Kettle Base Camp Ultimate Kit: Uses natural fuel like twigs, pinecones, and dry grass to boil water and cook food efficiently, even in harsh weather conditions.

Step 4: Assembling Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

Your emergency preparedness checklist should cover basic survival needs, medical necessities, and tools for self-sufficiency.

Must-Have Emergency Kit Items:

Step 5: Reviewing and Updating Your Plan

Emergency preparation is not a one-time task. Regularly check and rotate stored food and water, update contact lists, and practice emergency drills.

By equipping yourself with reliable survival tools and following a well-structured emergency preparedness plan, you’ll be ready to handle any crisis with confidence.

Incorporating guidance from authoritative public government sources can significantly enhance your emergency preparedness plan. Here are key recommendations from agencies such as FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), Ready.gov, and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control)

Step 6: Develop a Family Emergency Plan

Creating a comprehensive family emergency plan ensures that all members know how to respond during various emergencies. This plan should detail communication strategies, meeting locations, and roles for each family member. Ready.gov emphasizes the importance of practicing this plan regularly to ensure readiness.

Key Components:

  • Communication Strategy: Establish a method for family members to contact each other if separated.
  • Meeting Locations: Designate safe spots both within your neighborhood and in the wider community.
  • Roles and Responsibilities: Assign tasks to each family member, such as who will handle pets or gather emergency supplies.

Step 7: Stay Informed About Potential Emergencies

Understanding the types of disasters that can occur in your area is crucial. FEMA recommends staying informed about local risks and the appropriate responses. This includes signing up for local alerts and warnings to receive timely information.

Actions to Take:

  • Local Alerts: Subscribe to community alert systems for real-time updates.
  • Emergency Services: Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and their contact information.
  • Evacuation Routes: Know the primary and alternative evacuation routes from your home and workplace.

Step 8: Build a Comprehensive Emergency Kit

Beyond water and food storage, a well-rounded emergency kit includes items to maintain health, safety, and communication during a crisis. The CDC provides a detailed list of supplies to consider.

Additional Supplies:

  • Personal Hygiene Items: Such as moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties.
  • Tools: Manual can opener, wrench, or pliers to turn off utilities.
  • Documents: Copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank records in a waterproof container. (Hint: AquaBrick Food and Water Storage Containers are perfect for this type of task.)
  • Cash: Small denominations in case ATMs are inoperable.

Step 9: Address Special Needs

Consider the unique needs of family members, including infants, elderly individuals, and those with medical conditions. Ready.gov advises tailoring your emergency plan and kit to accommodate these requirements.

Considerations:

  • Medications: At least a week’s supply of prescription medications.
  • Medical Equipment: Extra batteries or power sources for essential devices.
  • Dietary Needs: Special foods for those with allergies or specific dietary restrictions. (Another use for the AquaBrick Food and Water Storage Containers)

By integrating these recommendations from reputable government sources into your emergency preparedness plan, you can enhance your readiness and resilience in the face of various emergencies.