Preparedness Planning Information - Getting Ready Quickly

Preparedness planning information is crucial in these unsure times.  Let’s face it.  We don’t want the economy to collapse, or a terrorist attack in our city, or a major hurricane or earthquake.  But take a glance at the latest headlines, and it’s obvious  such things are possible.  It makes sense to hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.

And just like it makes sense to have homeowner’s insurance in case your house burns down, it also makes sense to be prepared.  

But what if you only have a few days to prepare?  And what if your income is limited?  Follow this planning preparedness information, and you will be ready for whatever comes your way.

According to Kathy Harrison, author of the amazing book Just In Case: How To Be Self-Sufficient When the Unexpected Happens, the worst thing anyone can do is to rush out the door without a plan.

Without a list and a budget, you'll waste both money and time while neglecting to get the items that  make a difference between being  comfortable and suffering.

So, before you head out the door, gather some preparedness planning information. 

Sit down with paper and pen and write up a supply list.  Then map out a shopping route to get the most done in the least amount of time.

This helpful book will help you prepare for any emergency.

Divide up tasks, if possible, between adults so you can cover the most ground in the shortest amount of time. With your preparedness planning information in hand, your tasks and purchases should include the following:

Gas Up Every Vehicle You Own

Take all your cars to the service station and fill 'em up. Gasoline is likely to be one of the first items in short supply, so get that first. Better still, always make certain your gas tank is at least half full.

Fill Those Prescriptions

Refill your prescriptions and get an extra month's supply, even if your insurance won't pay for them. The extra cost will be well worth it in an emergency.  The last thing you need is to run out of your blood pressure medicine or other vital drug when you're riding out a hurricane.  And while you're at it, pick up some extra over the counter medications.

Preparedness Planning Information
Includes Storing Water

And if you don't have any water stored, then get large, clean containers and fill them with water. You will need at the bare minimum two gallons of water per person per day.

Stock Up on Nonperishable Food

Look for canned goods, such as soups, stews, fruit and vegetables. Also stock up on things that don't need to be cooked, such as breakfast bars, dried fruits and nuts, boxed cereals and powdered milk. Such items are your best bet for easy nutrition in an emergency.

Preparedness Planning Information
and Personal Items

Don't forget items such as toilet paper, first-aid and sanitary supplies, soap and toothpaste.  Such items are crucial for your health and sanity.

Have a Baby at Home?

Then be sure to stock up on diapers, formula, and wet wipes. It's also vital to have warm clothes on hand for your little one, such as a fleece or wool suit.

Emergency Lights Are a Must

A crucial part of preparedness planning information includes reliable lights.  Look for hand-cranked flashlights and hurricane lamps. If you can't find those, then get plenty of candles, holders and matches. If you already have a hurricane lamp, pick up extra fuel and wicks and be sure to clean the lamp's globe. If you are buying candles, look for ones that are thicker rather than the tapers.

Emergency Cooking

A propane camp stove is useful for cooking if the power goes out, but make sure you put it in a well-ventilated area such as your garage or covered porch. Also make certain you have some extra propane cylinders. If you plan on using your gas grill,  be sure to refill its tank.

Stock Up On the Extras

Make sure you have plenty of batteries for your flashlights and a radio. Include board games, jigsaw puzzles, books and playing cards, especially if you have children.  Having ways to deal with the boredom will make everyone happy.

Have Plenty of Cash

Get as much extra cash from your bank or ATM as possible, preferably in small bills.

Got a Pet?

Make sure you have plenty of pet food on hand. 

And once you collect all these items?  Use them periodically, rotating the newer items toward the back of your shelf and the older ones toward the front.  That way, you will always have good quality items on hand.

Related article:  The items you need in an emergency flight kit

Learn More About Being Prepared

Return to Home

New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.
Enjoy this page? Please pay it forward. Here's how...

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.