It is important to know what to do in an emergency situation, such as a surge in criminal activity. It can be very scary especially if you have not been in a situation in which you have no experience to fall back on. Not knowing what to do first is a normal reaction. The media may post what to do or not to do in these situations. Keep alert for tv and radio announcements.
There are a few things to have on hand that is part of being prepared, such as a binder filled with copies or originals of personal medical, health and financial information for you and your family, including the family pets. This binder goes with you even if you need to relocate temporarily during an emergency situation. The first thing I would be concerned about if my home was ransacked or robbed, is, have they gotten my financial information, SS#, copy of my driver’s license or photo ID, credit cards, checks, debit cars, etc.? In case this does happen, I have taken the proper precautions and would like to share them with you.
- Stay as far away as you can from the epicenter where the criminal activity is spiking, where there is a flood occurring due to a dam breaking, or where there are accidents piling up on a freeway. It is a good idea to have a battery-operated weather station with you to keep you abreast of goings on, alerts and authorities’ description of what to look for.
- Stay with family or in a hotel far away from the epicenter. The police will inform you of the diameter in which you need to stay away. This is the minimum number of miles you need to stay away from the epicenter.
- Make sure to remove and take with you all your sensitive financial information from your house. It is best to have this information in a specific area of your house – not your garage. It should be a file folder, a binder or box. Carrying it in your purse is not a good idea, however, keeping it in a bank safety deposit box is a better idea.
- If you have firearms or other weaponry, lock that gun in a safe that is immovable or a lock box that can be locked inside your car or trunk. You can also bring it to a storage center where it is safe and locked.
- Ensure that you take all your pet supplies and foods for a minimum of 7-10 days. Likely where you are going is far from the area where the trouble/storm/emergency is. You just need supplies to get you there. Include a copy of their veterinary information, their file that includes shots and vaccinations.
- Always take a first aid kit, and have a backup. Have jumper cables in your car and an emergency car kit that has necessary items in case of a flat tire, dead battery, needing oil or water – for the radiator. A cooler for diabetic or medical supplies or prescriptions.
- Any other personal or sensitive information, even family heirlooms can be moved to storage temporarily, far enough away from the epicenter. Insurance for these items is also a good idea.
- Imagine you need to create an escape route from your home away from the epicenter. Where would you go, what is your plan to get there, and are their supplies there or would you need to bring them? Have a plan B and C in case of mishaps, tie ups or accidents.
- Do you have your emergency food and water supply and is it enough for your family for 7 days? Ensure you dress and pack appropriate for the season, weather or where you will be staying. Don’t procrastinate or think you might find an open or stocked store. It is best to get these things in place now, so that you can have them together when needed.
- Just in case, have a filled backup gas can in the garage, and rags, funnels or other items needed to fix your car in case of a breakdown.
This list isn’t exhaustive, more like a starter. As you begin looking for supplies for your kit, you may find other options that suit you or your family better. Something fun to prepare as a family in the evenings or this Saturday.
The American Red Cross recommends an emergency preparedness kit in the event of a disaster or emergency. Keller’s Survival is in West Virginia and have brand names such as 5.11 Tactical. Stealth Angel is another supplier of survival kits, clothes, food, etc. Tactical Shovel Kits, fire starters, waterproof matches, multi-functional spoon, tactical pen, glass breaker – are some of the things you can have in your bag. Think practical, every day use. It should not be cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. One of the most useful tools I found was a water purifier water bottle. Most of the things I found on Amazon. For very good quality of sleeping bags and tents rated for winter weather, I suggest you do your research to find what works for you.
This isn’t to scare you. This is prevention. If you prepare these materials now, you won’t be in a panic when you have a few minutes to leave your home. Having a bug-out bag in case of emergencies with these things will help you in the long run.
PC: Designer491
