Each year there are an average of 6,800 natural disasters globally. In 2022 alone, the UK and the United States experienced around twenty weather events that included droughts, heat waves, flooding, severe storms, tropical cyclones, and wildfires, and both are prone to periodic earthquakes.

Our world can be uncertain and ever-changing, so having a survival kit in your home is essential. If you become first aid qualified or have an adequately supplied survival kit in your home will keep you and your family safe in the event of an emergency, allow you to administer basic first-aid, ensure you have clean food and water and be able to obtain essential emergency guidance.

A great place to start is with a 72-hour kit in case of natural disasters or other occurrences where you may be required to be without electricity, running water, and essentials until help arrives.

What should you have in a 72-hour survival kit?

Water: Aim for about 4 liters or 1 gallon per person daily.
Basic first aid kit w/manual: Whether you purchase a premade first aid kit, or put one together yourself, ensure it has all of the first aid essentials, along with a manual to instruct you through basic first aid.
Toiletries and Medications: Think about the supplies necessary for 72 hours. Chances are you won’t be taking showers in an emergency, but having a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and essential medications should be the bare minimum.
Food: Collect enough food to last everyone in your household for 72 hours. You want to utilize shelf-stable foods and easy to prepare, such as dried and canned food. If you choose canned goods, make sure you put a can opener in there to open them.
Infant Supplies (if applicable): If you have an infant in your household, it is essential to have a small supply of formula, a bottle, extra filtered water, diapers, wipes, and whatever else your baby needs within a 72 hour span.
Blankets or Sleeping Bags: Ensure you have one for each family member. If you are displaced from your home, you must have bedding to sleep on. If you can’t afford sleeping bags, comfortable blankets will do just fine.
Flashlights: In a scenario without power, flashlights are essential. Have at least one per person with extra batteries for each.
Clock/Watch: A battery or solar-operated clock or watch is a great addition to help track time and dates during an emergency.
Masks: Dust masks are essential if there is an earthquake, and masks like Mira Safety tactical masks offer versatile protection. They are compact, reusable, and protect against dust, gas, particulates and viruses, so they are a great multipurpose option.
Cash: Chances are you will not be able to run a credit card, so having extra money on hand is essential.
Emergency radio: Emergency radios are a great way to get updates on the status of an emergency. Look for options that are battery or solar-powered.
Trash bags
Toilet paper
Disinfecting Materials: Whether it be a small amount of bleach or sanitary wipes, you want to have a way to clean and sanitize when necessary.

A 72-hour kit must be easy to access in an emergency. A front closet, garage or shed are great options. If it’s just you, one large backpack will do, and make sure you can quickly grab water. If you are a multi-person household, consider a pack for each person large enough to carry their own or even a storage bin that can be moved easily.

Once you have nailed down your 72-hour kit, consider adding some long-term essentials. Aim for a two-week supply for you and your family. 125-liter (33-gallon) plastic trash barrels or containers with stack lids are an excellent option. Make sure the tops are tight-fitting to keep critters and insects out.

Track how much food your family would need in a week and stock up on shelf-stable things that require little to no cooking. Look into larger water containers to help you meet the 2-gallon per person per day need, and consider investing in a portable camping stove, small, lightweight pots and pans with utensils and disposable plates, cups, napkins, etc.

Make sure you rotate through the food and water to prevent spoilage.

Create a survival kit today to ensure your and your family’s safety!

Your and your family’s safety should be a top priority during these uncertain times. Start creating a survival kit today to ensure preparedness for the unexpected. You will never regret investing in peace of mind.

The best places to visit in Cornwall