Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Basic Bug Out Bag Supplies

By Claudine Hodges


People have become much more aware of the need to be prepared for any type of natural or manmade disaster. Most, have food staples, water, and first aide items stored and ready for when needed. But the reality may be that you cannot stay home and weather it out. You may have to run. If that is the case where you are, then having basic bug out bag supplies ready to go, can mean your evacuation will be successful.

Clean drinking water is vital and sometimes overlooked. A person needs at the least, one liter per day. Have at least three liters in each pack. Also, it is important to have options available. Have iodine tablets and a small kettle or pot for boiling water. You will use the pot for cooking also.

Along with water, we all need nutrition. Protein bars are excellent because they are small, light, and nutritious. Also, freeze dried meals or military Meals Ready to Eat, (MRE)will fit in your bag and keep you going. You can eat the MRE cold in case you do not want to build a fire or boil water. Try to also include nuts and some hard candy.

You will need to have clothing that you would wear while camping or backpacking ready also. Have a pair of sturdy boots or shoes sitting next to your pack so you can put them on as you evacuate. You also need to have two shirts for layering, a jacket that will keep you warm and protect you from the rain, a hat and bandana, two pairs of socks, and warm long underwear.

Have a tent or tarp along with a way to set up in your kit. You need to stay warm and dry to remember to also have a sleeping pad or good ground tarp included. These items will be useful if you have to stay out longer than three days. Don't forget a good bedroll or sleeping bag.

Always have a first aid kit. You can buy them already prepared but it would be better if you fill it yourself. That way you will have an intimate knowledge of what it contains and can manage it to fit your needs. In addition to bandages, gauze, splints, and first aid cream, include anti-diarrhea medication, allergy pills, sun block, and instant ice packs.

You might be thinking that is all you need, but no, there are more items that are also vital to survival. Such as a hatchet for cutting firewood, a knife for all kinds of uses, a small pot or large cup for boiling water to drink or heat food. You also need matches, a lighter, and know how to start a fire without either.

The sky may not be actually falling, as Chicken Little declared, but many people believe there is a real threat of disaster visiting us. You may not be able to close the door to it and wait it out. Be ready by having these items ready to go with you at a moments notice. It will give you the peace of mind being prepared can bring.




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