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72-Hour Emergency Evacuation
Kits
by Nikki Willhite
In order to be prepared for the unexpected, many people put
together what are called 3 Day, or 72-hour emergency evacuation kits.
These kits are created so that if we have to leave our homes in a
hurry, we will have the things we need.
There are a lot of reasons people have to flee their homes.
Sometimes you can come back, and other times you know you are going to lose your
home.
In 1976 the Teton Dam broke in Idaho, resulting in the loss of 14
lives. People in the path of the escaping water had very little time to flee
their homes and get to higher ground. Most of their homes were destroyed.
Other incidents that may cause you to have to flee your home are
chemical spills, air contamination, or fires.
In times of stress, people panic. That is why being prepared is
always wise. You don't miss the "little things" until you don't have them.
Having a change of clothes; and big things, like your medications, can do a lot
of help you through a difficult time.
Each family member should have their own emergency kit. You can
put it in a backpack or a plastic bucket. It needs to be in a place where it can
be readily accessed as you are leaving your home.
Adults need to bring emergency survival items, such as
flashlights, and first aid kits.
The basics of emergency survival are:
Food
Cooking
Water
Warmth
Shelter
Light
Hygiene
Communication
You can find more information on all these at
http://www.frugalpreparedness.com
It is also important to have emergency cash. Be sure and have
both large and small bills. You don't want to have to give someone $20 for a
bottle of water. You may or may not be able to drive out of a "problem area."
Communication is essential. You need to contact family members,
and keep informed as to what is happening with your house and geographic area.
You can buy a combination windup flash light and cell phone charger to keep in
your emergency kit.
Keep your personal records and documents organized and together
so that if you do have the time, you can take them with you as you leave your
home.
Hopefully you will never have to use a 72-hour emergency
preparedness kit. It is another type of insurance. Do it for the well-being and
security of your family.
About the Author: Nikki Willhite,
mother of 3 and an interior design graduate, has been writing and publishing
articles on the topic of
frugal living for over a
decade. Visit her at
www.frugalhappyfamilies.com
- where you will find hundreds of frugal living tips and articles. Frugal
Happy Families- more than just money!
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