There is always someone telling everyone to "Be prepared." Some even will say what, in their opinion, it means to be prepared.
But, what really does it mean to be prepared? It isn't easy to answer that question, because there is no one answer that fits everyone in every circumstance.
Certainly, the first step in being prepared is being aware of the problem, or the possible problem. For example, the risk faced could be that of traveling in an unsafe neighborhood in the wee hours of the morning. Or, it could be a much larger risk, such as being in a large city in the direct path of a major hurricane. Other threats include massive snow and ice storms and tornadoes.
For any of these, being prepared is, at least partially, as simple as paying attention.
For the first problem, of the bad neighborhood at night, being prepared would very likely just amount to being aware, and choosing another route.
The second - the hurricane, or snow and ice storm or tornado bearing down on your city - is unlikely to be avoided by taking a different route.
These are the type of possible disasters which bring about the recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that everyone have an emergency kit and an emergency plan.
The FEMA recommended kit should include non-perishable food and water, as well as other items which could be of importance in an emergency situation. One specialist with the University of Missouri Outreach and Extension said that when disaster strikes, there may be no access to food, water or power for several days, "perhaps even weeks." It's a little late for preparing, when the natural disaster is just down the street and coming your way.
In "Stocking Food and Water for Emergencies," author Lynda Zimmerman, recommends having the emergency supply in a handy place, packed and ready to go, just in case there is not time to gather the needed items from the kitchen, when disaster strikes.
Emergency food provisions can become important very quickly. The need will probably be unexpected and sudden.
After all, we are talking about an emergency. Remember, just because you have a freezer full of food, don't think you are prepared to last out a few weeks. If the power goes out, you could be lucky enough to have a barbecue grill handy to cook enough to feed the whole neighborhood for a day or two. But, on the other hand, if the water is waist deep, you probably just have a freezer full of rotting meat. Also remember, if the power is out, you likely will have no cellphone service or any way to obtain fuel for cars or trucks. You might be on your own for awhile. If it's an ice storm, some form of alternative heat - maybe firewood - would be good to have on hand. The emergency kit is to help get by for the first few days.
Sure, a person can try to prepare for an emergency lasting months, but where do you keep the supplies? How many have a spare semi-trailer available to put all of the supplies in? And, if you have to move to another location, how do you take it with you?
CDC recommends a gallon of water per person per day. A hint to the wise: water purification tablets and reusable canteen or plastic bottle are a lot easier to carry than gallon jugs of water. Drinking straws, which act as water filters, are not too expensive and could be very handy. Other CDC recommendations are food (non-perishable foods that are eaten regularly), medication (prescription and non-prescription), tools and supplies (utility knife, duct tape, battery-powered radio, etc.), sanitation and hygiene (household bleach, soap, towels, tooth paste, toothbrush, etc.), clothing and bedding (a change of clothes for each person and blankets), important documents (copies) and First Aid supplies.
The recommended foods include: ready-to-eat canned meats, soup, fruit and vegetables (don't forget a non-electric can opener); high-energy foods including trail mix, protein or meal replacement bars and peanut butter; comfort foods such as sweetened cereals, granola bars, crackers, cookies and candy; instant meals, soup or noodles, freeze-dried foods and powdered milk (keep in mind, water will be required for reconstitution of these products); prepackaged beverages in foil pouches.
Have enough packed to last several days, a week if possible. Snack size is best, since refrigeration is doubtful. Remember, you are getting prepared for an emergency. Also recommended are special needs and the tastes of the whole family, including babies, young children and older adults. Don't forget the pets! Remember, those who are prepared with even a few days' supply of food and water are less of a burden on available emergency services. Those who are prepared may also be in a position to help others if emergency help is delayed.
One item, which should be considered for an emergency kit, especially for those who are a little older, is a cane or a stout walking staff. When the footing is treacherous or slick, a staff could be handy. It could also help fend off hungry dogs, which might be trying to take your supplies away from you.
Also, have an emergency plan, including someplace to go.
As the Boy Scouts say, "Be Prepared." Make it in attitude, as well as supplies.