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It's always best to be prepared. In case of terrorist attack, hurricane, earthquake, or any other disaster, natural or man-made, you should be prepared. Grocery stores may be closed. The power may be cut, and you may not own a generator. Water may be unsafe. The phone lines may be down. The cell phone cells overwhelmed, and eventually the battery will die. Bridges may collapse. Are you prepared? Will you be able to protect and provide for your family until order is restored?
Packing a survival kit may seem paranoid. With luck, you'll never need it, and it will gather dust in the garage. But if you need it, you will really need it. It can be a life saver.
A large cooler serves well as a container for your survival supplies. It's airtight, and insects and animals won't be able to rummage inside. A cooler has the added advantage of being portable - you can pack it in your trunk if you and your family need to flee instead of holing up at home.
Think about what your family needs to survive for a week. You'll need bottled water (replace the water every few months to keep it from going "stale"), food (stick with protein bars, unless you foresee a long-term need. Then include canned vegetables, soups, and rice. Don't forget a can-opener!), and medical supplies (bandages, disinfectants, medications for colds and flu). Include rope, sleeping bags, and at least one blanket. Add a compass, if you know how to use one, and a mirror to signal, and a radio. If you want to be comfortable, and if you have room, include clean underwear and socks for the family.
Also, you will want a knife - this can be kept in your home if you use it regularly; otherwise keep it with the rest of your supplies. Keep a sharpener in your survival kit. As for a firearm - if you are comfortable with firearms and keep them with you, then don't leave it with your other survival gear. I won't name any firearms (if you don't know what kind of firearm you most prefer to have in a survival situation, then you don't have the training necessary to use one when stressed and anxious). I will, however, remind you that if you bring a firearm, remember ammunition can go "stale" if left alone too long, so purchase new ammunition for your survival kit every so often. Remember to pack ammunition that fits your choice of firearm. And if you intend to travel, it might be wise to pack equipment to clean your firearm.
There are many things that you use every day that you would want to bring with you in your survival kit if you have to leave your home. Make a list of these and put the list in your kit. Keep all the items accessible, should you need to leave in a hurry. Be prepared to quickly add prescription medications if you are leaving home. Children may want favorite toys or snacks. If you are bringing your pet, make sure you have pet food. Other items could include eyeglasses, contact lens care equipment, pocket knives, and valuables like cash or jewelry.
It isn't paranoia to be prepared. Pull your survival kit together, add your list of everyday items you'll gather if you leave your home, and relax because you are as prepared as you can be.
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