Are You Ready for an Emergency? 72-Hour Kits Can Help

Creating a 72-hour emergency kit with the right food is essential to ensure that you and your family stay safe and healthy in any emergency situation. The food you choose for your 72-hour kit should provide enough energy and nutrition for each person in your family for three days with minimal preparation.

In this article, we will discuss the food essential for a successful 72-hour kit:

Non-perishable food items

Non-perishable food items are great choices for stocking up your 72-hour emergency kit. Choose a wide variety of foods that you and your family will enjoy eating. Ready to eat canned meat, vegetables, soup, fruits and even shelf-stable dairy products like canned milk can give you the nutrition you need during a crisis.

In addition to having some convenience foods like cereal bars and granola bars on hand, it is important to select high calorie and protein rich staples like peanut butter, nuts and seeds. Dried goods such as whole grains, oats, pasta and rice can also last for months without refrigeration.

Be sure to check the expiration date of each item in the grocery store before you buy it. Store all non-perishable food items in a cool area in case of power outages. Make sure all boxes or cans are properly sealed when placed in storage containers so they are protected from pests or moisture damage. Always keep clean water on hand as well – bottled water or water jugs that have been purified by boiling will be essential during an emergency situation!

High-calorie food bars

High-calorie food bars provide essential nutrients, typically with a higher calorie count than regular meals. They’re typically shelf-stable, making them suitable for 72 hour kits and long-term survival situations. When selecting high-calorie food bars, pay attention to the ingredients. Ideally you want ones that are free of chemicals and preservatives, contain some protein and fiber, and can be stored without the need for refrigeration or freezing.

You can purchase pre-packaged energy bars to add to your 72 hour kit or emergency food storage. Alternately, you can use non-perishable ingredients such as dried fruits and nuts to make your own versions of high calorie bars at home. They’re easy to put together with just a few simple ingredients, no baking required!

Commonly used healthy ingredients include:

Rolled oats
Almonds
Chia seeds
Pecans
Cranberries
Dates
Peanut butter

But get creative with spices or other individual preferences in order to create a better tasting bar when needed. Remember that these homemade energy bars still have a limited shelf life so use common sense when preparing them for long-term storage in your 72 hour kit.

Ready-to-eat meals

Ready-to-eat meals are an essential part of a 72-hour emergency kit. These unabridged meals are easy to prepare because they do not require the need to cook or add water to them. Ready-to-eat meals come in several forms, including:

Canned goods like tuna, spam, and beef stew;
Freeze dried foods like fruits and vegetables;
Pre-packaged meals like MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) and Ready Hour kits.

These readymade meals are typically high in calories and nutrients which help you stay energized throughout the day and provide the energy needed for any future emergencies that may arise.

Ready Hour is the leading provider of freeze dried food storage solutions. Their ready-made emergency food kits offer delicious yet compact full meals packed with all the vitamins, minerals, and protein required for a fully balanced diet during any potential crisis situations. Each meal is full of tasty ingredients such as scrambled egg mix, mac & cheese, potatoes & gravy, vegetable medley side dishes; soups like tortilla, chili macaroni cheddar jack alfredo; entrées like gouda chicken alfredo pasta marinara; desserts like honey bed dipped cookies, blueberry cobbler mix; breakfast items like grits and oats with brown sugar; sauces such as bbq rub garlic onion teriyaki seasonings and so much more! With shelf lives up to 25 years in optimal conditions these emergency kits can provide nutritionally balanced sustenance for extended periods of time during emergency scenarios or natural disasters.

Water

When getting ready for any severe weather, it is very important to remember to store enough water for the duration of the disaster or emergency. The importance of water in your 72 hour kit or bug out bag cannot be overstated. This section will focus on the absolute essentials of having water in your kit and the various ways to store it:

Essential items
Various ways to store water

Water filters

Having an optimal way to filter water is essential for any emergency preparedness kit. Water filters are a great way to easily remove sediments, debris, chemicals, organisms and other harmful particles from water sources.

Water filters come in various sizes and types and can be used in both large containers as well as individual bottles. There are two main types of water filters available on the market today: mechanical filtration and chemical filtration. Mechanical filtration uses pumps or other methods to filter out particles physically, while chemical filtration uses carbon or similar agents to absorb pollutants. Depending on the model, some water filters can also eliminate dangerous pollutants such as heavy metals, fluoride and chlorine.

Perhaps the most popular type of water filter is a personal bottle or straw with its own filter cartridge that eliminates bacteria, virus or parasites from drinking water sources. Bottle-style filters typically have an “end of life” indicator that shows when it's time to replace the filter cartridge. Straw-style filters do not have indicators but should generally be replaced about every 3-6 months for optimal performance and cleanliness.

For larger capacity needs, one option is a countertop bucket filter unit that can offer up to 2000 liters of purified drinking water per day with a straightforward manual pump operation. Such devices usually include filtration media such as charcoal for particulate reduction and ion exchange resin for heavy metal removal; some models also include UV light disinfection capabilitys similar to those found in ultraviolet sterilization systems such as SteriPEN® products.

No matter which type you choose, make sure any ready hour 72hour kit includes quality certified approved filtered drinking water solutions so you will always be prepared no matter what situation arises!

Water purification tablets

Water purification tablets are a convenient way to treat water for the purposes of drinking and cooking in a variety of settings. Tablets are safe to use and require minimal supplies, making them ideal for camping, travel or emergency use.

Tablets may contain iodine, chlorine dioxide or other chemicals as active ingredients, depending on the manufacturer; these active ingredients can effectively eliminate bacteria, parasites and viruses that may cause illnesses when ingested.

When using water purification tablets, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding dosage and wait time; these details may depend on the amount of water being treated and ambient temperature. Treatment times may vary from five minutes to four hours after adding the tablets; water should not be consumed until treatment time has elapsed.

It is important to note that while these treatments will kill most harmful microorganisms present in water, they do not remove chemical contaminants or heavy metals – additional filtration is required if such contaminants are suspected.

Water storage containers

Proper water storage is an important part of any 72-hour emergency preparedness kit, and having the right container for storing your water is essential. Water stored in tanks, cans and food-grade containers, such as flexible jugs or cubes, can quickly become unsuitable for drinking without proper treatment, including the use of special filters and purification tablets. Furthermore, different types of containers are necessary to store chemical-free water for months or even years without spoilage.

The most common types of water containers include:

Metal canisters: These are usually made from steel or aluminum and feature a single bottom opening for easy filling. Some models come with a wide top opening so you can seal it shut with a cap. Metal cans are lightweight, sturdy and resistant to chemical contamination.
Plastic containers: Plastic containers come in many sizes and shapes and can range from large barrels to smaller bottles. You should choose food grade plastic if you plan to store long term as non-food grade plastic may contain chemicals that leach into your water over time. In addition, plastic containers can easily be punctured; therefore it’s advisable to keep them away from sharp objects or items that may be easily shifted around while being stored.
Vials and ampoules: These specialized vessels have been designed specifically for medical purposes including storing sterile samples of liquids such as chemicals, drugs or plasma solutions without compromising the quality of their contents. The secondary purpose for these vials is for storing pure water that has been treated with chlorine dioxide tablets (for long-term storage). Vials come in small individual sizes up to large 5 litre gallon jugs – perfect for storing 72 hours worth of clean drinking water!

First Aid

Having a first aid kit in your 72-hour kit is essential, as you may need it in a variety of different scenarios. It's important to be prepared, so you should make sure that your first aid kit includes all the essential items. From bandages and gauze, to antiseptics and pain-relievers, having the right supplies can help you to treat common injuries and illnesses quickly and effectively.

Let's take a look at the basics of a first aid kit and what you should include:

First aid kits

Having well-stocked first aid kits placed throughout a home is essential for responding quickly to an emergency situation. A good first aid kit should include items for cleaning and protecting wounds as well as treating injuries such as sprains and burns. Items should be checked at least twice each year and replenished with appropriate items when necessary.

In addition to the basic components listed below, consider adding any items specific to your family’s needs, such as extra medications and epinephrine pens. Be sure to include a first aid manual that explains proper techniques for safely administering first aid.

First Aid Kit Components:

A variety of bandages in various sizes
Gauze pads
Roller (self-adherent) bandages
Cotton balls
Skin adhesive strips (or butterfly bandages)
Moleskin
Rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or antibiotic solution/pads/creams
Iodine swabs if wound contains debris that may require scrubbing.
Needle and thread for stitching wounds.
Analgesic, antihistamine or other medications prescribed by your doctor.

Be sure everyone in the household knows where the kits are located, how to use them, and when certain supplies need to be replenished. Anyone responsible for administering first aid should receive appropriate training from certified instructors so they are able to act calmly and competently in an emergency situation.

Bandages and wound care supplies

Bandages and wound care supplies are essential components of a first aid kit. Bandages can help stop minor bleeding and provide support for injured areas such as joints or sprains. Proper wound care helps reduce the chances of infection, however you may need more advanced medical help depending on the severity of the wound. To prepare properly, keep a variety of bandage sizes that include:

Gauze pads: 9-by-9 inches to 4-by-4 inches
Bandage rolls: 3 inches to 6 inches in width
Adhesive bandages (also known as Band-Aids): assorted sizes for various shapes and covered areas

In addition to the traditional cloth bandages, it is also a good idea to keep some adhesive tape on hand for larger wounds that require some extra support or added protection from dirt and debris. Accidents can happen at any time and having these supplies handy will help you be prepared for whatever life throws your way.

Over-the-counter medications

When creating a first aid kit for an emergency, over-the-counter medications can help to ease pain and treat minor medical issues. While it is best to consult a medical professional before taking any medications, some commonly recommended over-the-counter medications include:

Acetaminophen for pain relief.
Antihistamines for allergies.
Antibiotics for minor infections.
Antacids for heartburn and indigestion.

It is also important to include a laxative and an anti-diarrheal medication in case of gastrointestinal distress. If you have any existing medical conditions or allergies it is especially important to speak with your doctor before selecting these items. To ensure safety, read all instructions carefully and store the products in their manufacturer’s sealed packages inside the first aid kit.

Clothing

When packing your emergency kit, it’s important to include a selection of clothing items that are suitable for a variety of climates and scenarios. Your clothing should be warm, comfortable, and durable, and able to protect you from the elements in case of emergency.

Here are some pieces of clothing that should be included in your 72-hour emergency kit:

Long-sleeved shirts
Long pants
Sweaters or jackets
Rain gear (jacket and pants)
Hat and gloves
Sturdy, waterproof shoes

Weather-appropriate clothing

One of the most important items to include in a 72-hour emergency kit is clothing that is suitable for the expected weather conditions. Always ensure your clothing choices are suitable for both cold and warm climates. It’s also advisable to choose lightweight, quick-drying materials such as nylon or polyester, along with a waterproof shell. Be sure to select robust shoes that are comfortable and offer good support, appropriate socks and free-fitting hats.

Be aware that extreme temperatures can cause serious physical damage relatively quickly so always plan ahead by packing all necessary items of clothing (e.g thermal wear and specialized goggles), along with enough spare garments to accommodate changing temperatures. Be sure to opt for light colors which will help shield UV rays on warmer days and dark colors which can work as an additional form of insulation during winter months.

Generally speaking, you should bring:

1-2 pairs of pants/trousers
1-3 shirts or blouses
Extra warm sweaters or jackets (depending on climate)

Make sure you also include extra socks, underwear, scarves and other items as needed.

Rain gear

Rain gear is an essential component of any 72-hour kit due to its versatility and usefulness in various situations. The goal of having rain gear in your kit is to provide protection from the elements while keeping bulky items like blankets or tents to a minimum.

There are several types of rain gear available, including lightweight waterproof jackets, ponchos, umbrellas and full-length coats. Each of these has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the best one for your needs could be a challenge.

Lightweight waterproof jackets are typically made with either tightly-woven nylon fabric or specialized breathable fabrics such as Goretex or Epic. These fabrics are extremely effective at keeping out wind and rain while also allowing some air to pass through, helping you stay comfortable during outdoor activity. They generally come with zippered pockets for extra storage and adjustable cuffs for comfort when putting them on and taking them off.
Ponchos are popular because they offer a twofold benefit – protection from the elements as well as good ventilation on hot days when full-length coats may be too warm. Their lightweight construction makes them easy to carry and store in your pack without taking up too much room. Although they can typically withstand light rains, heavy rains can still soak through the material so it’s important to use caution when purchasing one of these pieces of clothing for wet weather.
Umbrellas are most useful on very rainy days when you don't need heavy coverage but still desire some kind of protection from the wet conditions outside your shelter or tent area. They come in various shapes and sizes depending on your personal preference – whether you would prefer a more traditional style umbrella or an adjustable canopy model that provides better coverage over a larger area when needed.
Full-length coats provide excellent overall coverage against water during extended wet weather conditions – whether you’re hiking through forests or mountain ranges during downpours, working in extreme weather conditions, camping outdoors during storms – this item can truly be counted on time after time in any environment! Consider using waterproof coatings like wax or silicone sprays to help improve water resistance across all fabric layers – this should ensure that water runs off easier instead of attempting to soak into your clothes for further dampness and discomfort throughout wear usage over stretches of time.

Extra shoes and socks

Having the right footwear and socks is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable outing. Before hitting the road, consider investing in a few extras to ensure you don’t miss out on any fun opportunities that may arise.

Shoes: Invest in a good pair of waterproof shoes or boots for wet days and a separate pair of lighter shoes, like running shoes or sandals, for hot days. Wearing comfortable hiking boots when trekking long distances is also recommended. Additionally, bring along an extra pair of comfortable shoes you can slip on at rest stops or stops along the way.

Socks: Soft bamboo-blend socks are best for long treks as they will keep your feet dry and netagainst blisters, while compression sports socks are great for active days that involve lots of walking and running around. If it will be really hot outside, consider bringing along low-cut socks that go just above your ankle bone to provide extra comfort without making your feet too hot. Bring along a few pairs of extra socks so you can change into dry ones if needed – no one likes having wet feet all day!

Shelter

Your shelter is one of the most important components of your 72-hour kit. Your shelter must provide you with adequate protection from the elements, like wind and rain. You need to be sure that you have a shelter that you can quickly construct in an emergency situation.

In this section, we'll talk about the different types of shelters that you can include in your kit, and the features they should have:

Emergency blankets

Emergency blankets are a must-have addition to any survival kit or emergency situation. In the event of a power outage, natural disaster, or other emergency situation, having the right insulation and protection can make all the difference in your comfort and ability to survive.

These lightweight material blankets are made of a durable mylar material designed to provide insulation as well as block wind and moisture. The mylar reflects up to 80% of body heat back to the user keeping them warm in cold climates and providing insulation in hot environments. It is an essential need for any serious disaster kit or outdoor enthusiast looking for added protection from the elements.

Typically rectangular in shape, they measure approximately 52” x 84” and can easily fold up small enough to fit into a coat pocket or backpack, making them an ideal grab-and-go item should you ever find yourself in an unexpected situation with no shelter. They also feature grommets along each corner allowing it to be fixed into place quickly should you ever have to use it as a makeshift blanket from wind, rain, sleet or snow.

When used correctly these blankets can help sustain life even just for three days when there is no shelter around. If used in addition with other resources such as tarps or bivy sacks, these blankets offer additional layers of protection from both extreme weather conditions as well as potential predators that may exist in unfamiliar terrain. While there are multiple types of shelters available on the market each created for different needs for people in various climates, having an emergency blanket could mean being able to survive more comfortably until you can get back home safely.

Tents

Tents are an important part of every ready hour 72hour kit. They provide shelter against wind, rain and even cold temperatures. When choosing a tent, there are many factors to consider including size, weight, and the number of occupants who will be using it.

Size is the most important consideration when selecting a tent. Choose one that is wide enough for you to move around freely and tall enough to allow you to stand up comfortably. Additionally, it should offer adequate room for sleeping bags, cots, camping gear, and other supplies.

The best tents are lightweight yet durable and made with quality materials for long-term use in tough weather conditions. Look for features such as extra reinforcements at stress points like seams and zipper closures; waterproof flooring; mesh windows; zipperless doors; strong poles; reinforced guy lines; additional stabilizers; adjustable stakes; and air vents to allow proper airflow.

Other important factors include the seasonality of your trip – do you need heavy insulation or mostly keep cool? Will you be carrying your tent on a backpack or carrying it in your vehicle? Do you prefer the convenience of quick setup or a larger structure? Answering these questions will help ensure you get the right tent for your camping adventure!

Sleeping bags

When preparing for an emergency, it is important to think about the components of your kit that will keep you warm and comfortable. A 72-hour kit should include at least one sleeping bag or bedroll, which can make all the difference in an emergency situation. There are many types of sleeping bags on the market and it’s important to choose one that fits your needs and budget.

Down or synthetic insulation: Down insulation is lightweight and offers superior warmth, but is more expensive than synthetic insulation. Synthetic material will retain some heat if wet, but can be heavier than down alternatives.
Temperature rating: Temperature ratings provide a guideline for selecting the appropriate bag for various weather conditions, ranging from summer bags that provide comfort in temperatures up to 50°F/10°C to winter bags that pass EN test ratings under 15°F/-9°C.
Size: Based on body temperature variance, most sleeping bags are available in regular or long sizes or additional large models that fit individuals over 6’ tall (1.8m). Additionally, mummy-style sleeping bags are wider at the shoulders than they are at their feet in order to contain body heat more efficiently.
Construction: Most sleeping bags feature a quilted construction with transition layers between fabric layers and inside core fill material designed to stop drafts while still providing breathability during use. Other common features include double zippers for venting options and drawstring closures around head openings for added security during sleep cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a 72-Hour Kit?
A1: A 72-hour kit is an emergency supply kit that contains enough essential items to sustain a person for up to 72 hours in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.

Q2: What items should be included in a 72-Hour Kit?
A2: A 72-hour kit should include essential items such as food and water, first aid supplies, a flashlight, a whistle, batteries, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, and a change of clothes.

Q3: Where can I buy a 72-Hour Kit?
A3: You can buy a 72-hour kit from a variety of online stores, as well as from some outdoor and camping stores.