8 Emergency Preparedness Tips for Families

In 1868 Brigham Young spoke to the Mill Creek Ward about the lessons they needed to learn from the onslaught of grasshoppers destroying crops.

Young emphasized the importance of listening to the Spirit when it comes to preparedness as well as following the counsel of Church leaders. Young said,

[pull_quote_center]I believe the Latter-day Saints are the best people on the earth of whom we have any knowledge. Still, I believe that we are, in many things, very negligent, slothful and slow to obey the words of the Lord. [/pull_quote_center]

He continued by saying, “Many seem to act upon the faith that God will sustain us instead of our trying to sustain ourselves. We are frightened at seeing the grasshoppers coming and destroying our crops.… I would rather the people would exercise a little more sense and save means to provide for themselves, instead of squandering it away and asking the Lord to feed them.”

In our day we face a great amount of uncertainty for which we need not only to be spiritually prepared but temporally as well. Below is a compilation of 8 basic temporal preparedness tips for families.

1. Water

Each family member needs a half gallon of water per day for their bodies to function properly. To prepare your water supply:

• Fill a large container to the top with regular tap water. If the water you are using comes from a well or water source that is not treated with chlorine, add two drops of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to each gallon of water.
• Tightly close the container using the original cap.
• Be careful not to contaminate the cap by touching the inside of it with your fingers.
• Write the date on the outside of the container so you know when you filled it. Replace the water after every six months (unless it is commercially bottled water.)
• Store in a cool, dark place.

2. Food

Canned foods are an excellent resource as they don’t require water, cooking or preparation. Try to avoid foods that are high in fat and protein, and limit salty foods as they will increase thirst.

Familiar foods can lift morale and give a feeling of security in time of stress. Include foods that your family will enjoy which are high in calories and nutrition.

3. Cooking Units

For emergency cooking you can use a fireplace, a charcoal grill or a camp stove. You can also heat food with candle warmers, chafing dishes and fondue pots.

Canned food can be eaten directly out of the can. If you heat it in the can, be sure to open the can and remove the label first.

4. Tent

Shelter is a critical component in an emergency situation. Choose a tent that is easily portable as well as durable.

5. Learn your Area’s Evacuation Routes

Many wards and stakes within the Church already have neighborhood evacuation routes and plans in place. Ask a ward specialist if you are unaware of your neighborhood’s evacuation routes.

6. Prepare a 72-Hour Emergency Bag

Keep an emergency 72-hour bag in your home as well as your car.

The basics to stock in your kit should include: your emergency contact list and emergency evacuation plan, water, food, battery powered radio, flash lights, extra batteries, a change of clothing, blanket or sleeping bag, utility tool, fire extinguisher, jumper cables, dust mask, plastic sheeting, duct tape, trash bags, sanitary and hygienic products, maps, first aid kit, household chlorine bleach, tin foil, signal flair, paper and writing device, plastic storage containers, mess kits and a manual can opener.

7. First Aid Kit

First aid kits can be purchased complete or assembled at home. For a full list of items that need to go into your First Aid Kit, check out the Red Cross.

8. Weapon

A weapon may be useful for hunting as well as protecting your resources and your family.

Watch below for tips from Mormon Channel on starting a food storage supply.