During these most uncertain times, I'm finding myself thinking more and more about how prepared I am if we end up in a world war, or if our power grid is attacked, or a variety of other crazy and not-so-pleasant thoughts. So, rather being safe than sorry, I've started gathering items that will definitely help in an off-grid situation. I'm fortunate to own 4 acres in the country, and have plenty of space for gardening and homesteading. Last year, I built a raised garden and was pleasantly surprised with the results. It's a lot of work, but being able to grow my own food is an essential skill needed if I can't get food from the store.
That leads me to 5 items that I feel are extremely important in preparation for any kind of disaster, whether it be a war or a weather event.
A Good Generator. I just purchased the A-iPower SUA12000E 12000 Watt Portable Generator from Amazon and here are a few reasons I chose this particular one. The wattage was important, for sure, and this one will handle a lot of appliances and electrical, powering my entire home. The price was great, at under $850, which is lower than I've seen any of this wattage. The reviews on this machine were great as well, which was really my only go-to when
determining which one to purchase. A few key features of this one include:
- Large 7 gallon gasoline fuel tank provides average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load
- Built in portability with folding handle, rugged wheels and a durable power-coated steel frame to successfully meet your transportation demands. These are HEAVY, so wheels are a must. Most generators don't come with the wheel kit, which is often another $200 or more.
- 4 x GFCI 120V 20A NEMA 5-20R
- 1 x 120V 30A NEMAL 5-30R
- 1 x 120/240V 30A NEMA L-14-30R
- 1 x 12V83A Multifunction Port USB Ready
- All outlets include Rubber Covers for an additional layer of Safety
Several Gas Cans (full of gas). Generators can use a lot of gas and fast if you
are using it every day. My sources recommend keeping at least 40 gallons of gas on hand for an emergency. That seems like a lot of gas, but it won't last long if you need it for essential living. Gas does go bad over time, so rotate it through the season, using it for mowing and other power tools that use gas. Refill your cans regularly to ensure you have a full supply on hand.
Emergency Food Supply - Nonperishable foods are vital to have saved up for an emergency. Canned goods, boxed pasta, rice and potato flakes last a long time in the pantry. Canning is a great way to save fresh foods from the garden. A root cellar is also great to have for storing potatoes and other root vegetables during the off season.
Another great item to have in your storage is an emergency supply of food that will last 20-25 years. This one has a 25 year shelf life. Each container includes enough meals one person for 30 days. You just add water. This brand includes a pretty good variety of meals, snacks and drinks, with the daily calorie and protein needed to get through a potentially stressful day of survival.
Water Purifier. Drinking water is so easy to take for granted. We purchased bottled water all the time and turn on the sink faucet expecting clean water to come out.
But, what if what came out wasn't so clean? Or even worse, what if there was no water at all? If you have to rely on rain water or a nearby pond, creek or river, there's great risk in getting sick from bacteria and who knows what else might be in that water source.
These potable water tablets will make water drinkable in 35 minutes. One tablet will purify a quart of water, regardless of its source.
First Aid Kit. You just don't ever know when you might need a bandage, safety pin, scissors or antbiotic ointment. Most of us have these kinds of supplies in the bathroom or spread around the house, but this kit keeps everything in one place and is easy to grab and go.
A few other items to add to your list might include:
-
Aluminum foil
- Over the counter medicine
- Paper plates
- Napkins
- Plastic cups and silverware
- Hand sanitizer
- Rags
- Wet wipes
- Matches
- Batteries
- Powdered milk
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Toothpaste
What other items do you consider essential when you think about an emergency?
