Being prepared can vary depending on your activities or potential emergencies. In today’s world it is becoming painfully evident how important it is to be vigilant, you never know when an emergency or disaster will strike.
Here’s a general list of useful items to carry:
Everyday Essentials
- Wallet/ID: Cash, credit/debit cards, and identification.
- Phone: For communication and navigation.
- Keys: House, car, or other essential keys.
Health & Safety
- First Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.
- Nitrile Gloves: To protect you from exposure to toxic substances. Consider getting Fentanyl resistant gloves.
- Tourniquet: Blood loss is the number one cause of preventable death after injury.
- CPR Mask: Protect your airway if you need to provide CPR.
- Personal Medications: Any daily medications or emergency prescriptions.
- Hand Sanitizer: To keep your hands clean.
Tools & Gear
- Multi-tool: Useful for various tasks.
- Flashlight: Compact, with extra batteries.
- Emergency Whistle: For signaling in case of an emergency.
- Cordage: A hank of good paracord can prove itself worth the carry.
- Pocket Knife: I can’t imagine being without one.
Personal Security
- Pepper Spray: A good choice for non-lethal protection. But be careful, get rained on how to use it properly.
- Taser: Another good option for non-lethal protection proper training is essential to be successful.
Outdoor/Travel
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated.
- Hydration Salts: It is important to replenish the salts lost through perspiration.
- Snacks: Non-perishable snacks like nuts or protein bars.
- Map or Compass: In case your phone dies.
- Day Pack: You need a way to carry your supplies.
Weather Preparedness
- Light Jacket or Poncho: For unexpected weather changes.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Protect against sun exposure.
Miscellaneous
- Notebook and Pen: For notes or reminders. Consider a Rite in the Rain notebook and a Sharpie, great for wet weather.
- Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered.
Adjust the list based on your specific needs, activities, and environment!
Above all else, get trained on how to use the tools you are carrying, possession is not competence. Remember, knowledge is the easiest tool to carry, with appropriate skills and education you will be an asset, during an emergency, not a liability.
Stay Vigilant and Be prepared
In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.