Emergency preparedness

We live in uncertain times, with natural disasters, unemployment, unexpected illness and a whole list of other unpredictable crises. Since becoming a mom, I can remember two major earthquakes (and several minor ones), one hurricane, two floods, two snowstorms which left us without power for a week at a time, and several other power outages.  My husband went through a period of unemployment and a major heart attack.  At times such as these, having emergency supplies of food, money and other necessities, can give welcome peace of mind.  It is recommended that everyone have at least a three days supply of food, water and other necessities, preferably much more.

You don't have to spend a lot of money acquiring an emergency supply of food.  Start small and watch for good prices on canned goods, staples and other food your family eats that has a long shelf life.  If you usually buy 4 cans of fruit, buy an extra 4 for storage.  Do this every time you shop...as your budget and space allows.  The goal is to have at least one month of food.  When you reach that goal, try for three months.  Also, don't forget non-food items like toilet paper, sanitary supplies, diapers, hygiene supplies and other things unique to your family.

 Do you have a way to prepare your food if you have no power?  How will you heat your home?  These are considerations to discuss with your family, especially if you have small children.  Do you have a way of reaching family members if an emergency occurs and some are at school or work?  Do you have an out-of-the-area contact person for everyone to touch base with in the event someone gets separated?  Do you have a working smoke detector?  Do you have an escape plan and does everyone know what it is?   These and many other questions should be addressed and understood by every member of the family. 

Hopefully, you will never need to use your emergency supplies but you don't want to find yourself in the middle of a crisis and not have the things your family needs to live.   The time to start gathering these things and educating your family is now.  Someday, you might be very glad you did!