Disaster Preparedness

Cheap Survival Items for Under $10

When disaster strikes, it is important to be prepared to meet the problem head on, with a concise and well rehearsed, survival plan. Here are tips on cost effective ways to be prepared.

Experts recommend that in addition to escape routes and protecting property, we should have survival kits ready for the home, the car (if evacuation is needed), and for the shelter (if things escalate). It is also suggested that individuals not wait until the last minute but begin "squirreling" these items away over a period of time.

Now, some items like Generators can be expensive but there are some great survival items that can be found in "Dollar" or even "Army/Navy" Surplus Stores. With the prices found in these type of places, everyone can begin stockpiling for $10 or less. Your survival and life is critical- so why let price determine whether you will survive or not. For starters, begin thinking about high protein/energy foods, medicinal products, cleaning items and protective clothing that will be important, and you will be well on your way to putting together your survival "war" chest.

After thinking about the above and referred then referencing agencies like The American Red Cross, I have compiled a list of recommended survival items with affordable places they can be found in:

Dollar Stores

* Bandages

* Medicine Dropper

* High Energy Snacks (protein bars, raisins, peanut butter, etc)

* Canned & non-perishable food items

* Bottled Water

* Moist Towelettes (Baby Wipes)

* Soap

* Petroleum Jelly (lubricants)

* Toilet Paper

* Plastic Garbage Bags

* Household Cleaning Items

* Games, Books & Other Items to pass time


Army/Navy Surplus Stores

* Maps

* Flares

* Rain gear

* Thermal Underwear

* Hats & Gloves

* Utility Knives

* Compass

* Camping Stove

* Sewing Kits

* 5-Gallon Solar Camping Shower

* Camouflage Water Shoes


Remember, that the purpose of any kit is to centralize items that will allow you to survive in a self-sufficient way for an extended period of time. Disaster can come into our life in many forms and can be both individual, local or global. Know that most catastrophes or disasters can be survived with a minimum of preparation. The important element will be how comfortable you are during and after a catastrophe, which will depend on how well prepared you were and on how severely your immediate area was effected. So, take advance action and start putting together a collection of items that will allow you and your f amily to be in the best possible shape. With all the available and simple items that you can live with, don't let money (or lack there of) come between you and your family's survival.

In a disaster or when survival is paramount, unforeseen events occur that could leave your family without daily items that we take for granted. Think about life without running water, electricity, food from grocery stores and restaurants, gas for heat, cooking and hot water, then plan accordingly – SURVIVE for $10 or less!

FOOD: I PREPARE FOODS THAT ARE LIGHT WEIGHT FOR THE MOMENTS NOTICE MUST LEAVE NOW SITUATION. IN MY BACKPACKS ONE FOR EACH FAMILY MEMBER.....

* MRE'S MEALS READY TO EAT
* WATER
* DEHYDRATED FOODS
* DRY CLOTES
* MED'S IF NEEDED

FOODS IN GENERAL.....
*GROUND NAVY BEAN FLOUR, GROUND LENTILS, GROUND PEAS (TO MAKE SOUPS MORE QUICKLY) Mix a half cup of the flour with a little oil and whisk into pot of boiling water. Add vegetable or chicken broth. Cook for 20 minutes and soup is ready.

* CREAM OF WHEAT/ MALT-O-MEAL
* OAT MEAL
* CUP OF NOODLES
* COFFEE/ TEA
* WHEAT FLOUR (FOR FLAT BREAD)
* CRACKERS
* BROWN RICE
* MIXED BAG FRUITS
* PLENTY OF WATER
* CANDY TO CURVE APPETITE
* MILK POWDER
* BROWN SUGAR
* BOILED EGGS
* CANED FOODS< br> * SOLAR BLANKET,MATCHES, FISHING LINE ETC. ETC.
Personal Items
Reading Materials (Quran, Bible, Puzzles, NewsPaper, Games) etc.

* Personal and feminine hygiene products
* Denture needs, contact lenses and an extra pair of eyeglasses
* Sun protection, insect repellent

Other Supplies

* Battery-operated radio, flashlights, non-electric can opener, extra batteries
* Charcoal, waterproof matches, extra propane gas for grills (Use grills outside only!)
* ABC-rated fire extinguisher in a small canister
* Portable cooler
* Plenty of absorbent towels, plastic trash bags
* Wi nd-up or battery-operated clock
* Tarp or sheet plastic, duct tape, hammer and nails for temporary roof repairs
* Cleaning supplies such as chlorine bleach
* Aluminum foil, paper napkins and plates, plastic cups
* Can of spray paint (can be used to identify your home by insurance adjusters in case it's damaged)
* At least one change of clothing per person, sturdy shoes, hat and work gloves