You’ve got 2 hours until disaster strikes. Are you prepared?
Picture this: an anxious parent rushing through aisles, grabbing water and canned food while chaos ensues around them. The store shelves empty quickly, and tensions rise as people scramble for supplies. This scene isn’t just a staple of apocalyptic movies; it can happen in real life. Just the whisper of disaster can throw your whole neighborhood into a frenzy because guess what? No one is prepared.
No one has stocked up on window reinforcements or food rations. No one has thought about how to protect their family or home. No one is ready, and now they’re panicking. As you’ll see in this minimalist disaster survival list, you can prepare for a disaster with low-cost supplies and limited storage space right now. Every purchase on this list is quickly accessible via a 2-day Amazon Prime order or a speedy run to your local store.
1. Hammer, Nails, and Plywood
– Reinforce your windows to protect against hurricanes or other threats. If you live in a tall apartment block, nail some boards together and secure them over your windows from the inside with duct tape.
2. Caulk
– Use caulk to plug any holes or fill any gaps on your windows and doors, creating the warmest and driest conditions possible.
3. Duct Tape
– The ultimate accessory for emergency repairs. Seal windows, stop leaks, and even make temporary fixes to your car.
4. Fire Extinguisher
– Prevent an accidental fire from making a bad situation worse. Learn how to use it right when you buy it.
5. Multi-Tool
– A compact toolkit that can tackle a plethora of problems without taking up much space. It’s like having a hardware store in your pocket.
6. Solar Charger
– Keep your phone and other small gadgets charged with solar power. Perfect for calling for help or checking in with loved ones during a blackout.
7. Battery-Powered Flashlight and Lantern
– Essential for navigating in the dark during a power outage. Make sure to get an LED flashlight for brighter illumination.
8. Hand Crank Radio
– Stay connected to the world with weather updates and emergency broadcasts, powered by good old-fashioned elbow grease.
9. Water Filter
– A portable water filter, like a LifeStraw, can turn dubious water sources into drinkable water, ensuring hydration in desperate times.
10. Batteries
– Keep a variety pack of batteries to power your flashlights, radios, and other essential gadgets.
11. Lighters
– Stock up on BIC lighters and keep them somewhere dry. They’re more reliable than matches in wet conditions.
12. Map
– A paper map of your city is crucial when GPS is down. Use it to navigate out of unsafe zones.
13. Ziploc Bags
– Protect your electronics and family mementos from water damage by double-sealing them in Ziploc bags.
14. Whistles
– Alert rescue crews of your location or find your way back to your family if separated during an emergency.
15. Medical Kit
– Ensure your medical kit is up to date with fresh supplies and includes an EpiPen for severe allergic reactions.
16. Non-Perishable Food
– Stock up on food that won’t spoil quickly and can be eaten without cooking, such as beef jerky, nuts, and canned tuna.
17. Heavy-Duty Blankets
– Keep warm with military-grade wool blankets or down comforters during cold weather disasters.
18. Mylar Blankets
– These thermal blankets retain up to 90% of your body heat, offering warmth and shelter in emergencies.
19. Condoms
– Handy not just for hygiene purposes but also for unexpected uses like carrying water or protecting small items from moisture.
20. Feminine Supplies
– Stock up on tampons or consider reusable options like the Diva Cup for better hygiene during emergencies.
21. Super Glue
– Use it to temporarily close minor wounds if you can’t get to a hospital. Remember, this is only for emergencies.
22. Gun
– If you have a permit and can legally own a firearm, consider getting a shotgun for protection.
23. Candles
– Use long-burning candles to light your home during extended power outages. Avoid tea light candles, which burn out quickly.
24. Toilet Paper
– Maintain hygiene and comfort with a good stock of toilet paper.
25. Flares and Smoke Flares
– Use flares to signal rescue workers during a flood or other disaster.
26. Wrench
– Shut off gas lines and water pipes to prevent explosions and flooding during natural disasters.
27. Water
– Stockpile enough water for drinking and sanitation. Aim for one gallon per person per day.
When disaster strikes, it’s not just the event itself that’s a threat—it’s the chaos that follows. Your neighbors might turn hostile, and your thirst could become deadly in just ten days. Preparation is key.
Start today and ensure your family’s safety with these essential supplies. HERE is a list to get started.
