RSSHome Preparedness – Plan For Probable
Sep 09
Home Preparedness, Lists blackout, checklist, home No Comments
When people think of survival items and home preparedness, they tend to think of those dramatic events that we see on TV and in action movies.
However, one of the most likely scenarios that we will find ourselves facing is fairly common, a power outage for several hours. How often have you lost power at your home or office? Chances are, it has happen more frequently than a solar storm wiping out the power grid or an invasion by zombies.
I’m not saying that these things can’t or won’t happen, I’m just saying that the probability is much lower, so we should increase our odds of survival by beginning our preparedness plans on those situations that are most likely.
Since this power outage scenario could happen to us at any time with little or no notice, I suggest we start our preparations by assembling those items that would most help us. Although the following is a very basic survival list, these items will also be used as we get into more detailed planning for future events. You must understand that this list is a starting point only, it is not all inclusive and should be modified for your specific needs.
Black Out Survival List (Basic) – Customize as needed
- Flashlight – As you might guess, this is very important. If the power is out and we are in the dark our effectiveness is greatly diminished. It doesn’t matter what type you have, just dedicate one to this project. Also, place some extra batteries with this flashlight if possible.
- Lightsticks or Candles- You may think that this is redundant and you are correct. In survival situations, it is common to hear that “two is one and one is none”. This means that things can fail at the most inconvenient time and having a backup is important because it often becomes the primary. Another advantage with the lightsticks/candles is that they can provide area lighting for extended periods with very little use of resources. Additionally, children can keep lightsticks with them for security and not risk the danger or having an open flame.
- Radio – This should be a portable device that can be operated from multiple power sources if possible. If batteries are the main power source, make sure you have new batteries stored with this radio in case you need to power it for extended periods. Another consideration would be a radio that includes a weather band or picks up NOAA weather alerts.
- Bag- This doesn’t real have to be a bag. It can be a backpack, small bag, old pillow case, cardboard box or something similar. The purpose is to place all of our items in this container and then place it in an area that we can get to, and find, even in the dark. I have placed my items in a small backpack that hangs in our utility room. It is centrally located and doesn’t get buried at the bottom of a closet. Since the items are in a backpack, it can be easily moved and I don’t have to worry about items falling out.
- Paper/Pencil/Pen – Use these items to right down information you hear on the radio or simply leave a note for other family members that might not be home. Maybe you have decided to go to your neighbor’s house, a note might help if a family member comes home during your absence.
- Contact Numbers- Although you might have every phone number in your phone, you might not be there. Wouldn’t it make more sense to have a handy list that includes the power company’s repair number? I would bet that most of us do not keep this number in our cell phone. Put this list together, as a backup.
- Misc. - Consider putting a deck of playing cards, a coloring book or some other activity book or game in with your survival items. Also add any special items that might be unique to your situation. Having something to do could really help pass the time.
Now you probably have a couple of these items already around your home, but try putting them together for easier access. Even if you have to purchase all of these items and place them in a cardboard box, you should be looking at less than $30 total. Start with the flashlight and work from there.
What other items would you add to a basic kit? Please leave your comments below.
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