We’re continuing on! If you’re just finding this article, make sure you read through part 1 first so it all makes since. Our goal is to grab the most important things first and make our way down the list with however much time we’re allotted. I recommend printing these lists out so if you don’t have your boxes together before you need to leave, you’ll have an idea of things you need to grab! Ok, here we go!
Box 6: The Camping Box
You could possibly be out of your home for awhile so camping could be your only option. If that’s the case you’ll be grateful you’re fully prepared to do so with this box! Note, your boxes can be used for more than just storing your items. This box could easily be used for (if built well and strong) a seat, stepping stool, counter and more. Here’s what you want inside:
- Fire Starting Supplies
- Flashlights, Lantern & Glow Sticks
- Small Shovel
- Tarp (to use as shelter from the weather)
- Rain Gear
- Hatchet or Axe
- Small backpacking store
As well as these additional items you’ll need to grab. I recommend keeping them together in one place but tape a list of these items to the outside of your box so you don’t forget to grab them.
- Sleeping Bags
- Small folding table
- Tent
Make sure you know how to use these items. It’s always fun to pull them out and camp even in your own backyard but be sure you can use them.
Box 7: Family First Aid Box
This box you can go all in if you plan on helping many or having your basics but depending on how much you have determines how big your “box” will be. We use something similar to a tackle box but you could get a duffel bag to fit all your items. If you remember, you do have a small first aid kit in your 72hr bags but this one goes a little more detailed. These are the different things you need to think about treating, the supplies you get to treat them with is up to you.
- Burns
- Cuts/Scrapes
- Foreign Objects (in eyes or skin)
- Tummy Troubles
- Blisters
- Pain
- Sprains
- Allergic Reactions
- CPR/Other (bandana, safety pins, gloves, etc)
Box 8: Wardrobe
We’re not talking about your favorite pair of heels or blouse. This is your essentials. Your 72 hr kits only really have one change of clothing. If you’re gone longer than 72hrs, you’re going to want more clothing. This one can be difficult to pack, especially if you have children. They’re always growing which makes it difficult. I recommend keeping the next size up handy to grab and go. We’ll buy these items second hand or use hand me downs. They’re also great for wearing while camping but they always go right back into the same bag so I can have everything together.
Box 9: The Kitchen Box
If your family does any sort of camping, this one will look familiar. These are items you’d use while out camping to feed your family and prep your food with. Remember, you only want items you NEED. It won’t have your electric can opener, your fancy china or breakables. You don’t even need multiple sets of things you can clean and reuse.
Paper Goods
Paper Towels
Aluminum Foil
Garbage Bags
Zipper Bags (Gallon, Quart & Sandwich)
Eating Utensils
Cooking Utensils
Cheese Grater
Cutting Board
Ladles
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Paring Knives
Carving Knives
Potato Peeler
Serving Sppons
Spatulas
Wooden Spoons
Wire Whisk
Strainer
Colander
Pair of Tongs
Pots & Pans
Clean Up
Dish Pans
Bottle of dish Soap
Dish Towels
Dish Clothes
Scouring Pads
Clorox Cleanup Wipes
Baby Wipes
Hand Soap
Hand Sanitizer
Misc Items
Can Openers
Seasonings (pepper, salt, etc)
Crescent Wrench
Strike Anywhere Matches
Oven Mitts (or welders gloves)
Flashlight
Set of Recipes
Box 10: Food Box
This will look different for every family so it hard to give you an exact list but when you’re thinking about grab and go, one option is to have empty totes or boxes you can just empty your shelf into. Have a shelf designated for evacuation items that way you’re not trying to sort through which items will be good to take.
If it’s in your budget, you can purchase the “just add water” meals you see. I’ve seen them at Sam’s Club and Costco (they’re a little difficult to find right now due to the circumstances) but they’re good and work well. Just make sure you have your food groups covered, protein, veggies, fruit, dairy and grains. Also, don’t forget your comfort food. This will be a high stress situation, you’re going to want something yummy (at least I will).
Box 11: Library & Treasures
These are going to be the last items you grab. I know that’s difficult to digest but you’re talking an emergency. These are things like diaries, genealogy, hobbies, heirlooms, etc. But remember, you only have so much room so you still need to be wise in what you can fit in your car. Luckily a lot of our stuff is digital, so we have all our photos loaded onto flash drives. Does that help if we don’t have computers, no. But hopefully we’ll be able to get back to our homes and access those again.
I hope this information is helpful for you and will help ease your mind. I know it’s a lot to think about but with the world the way it is and things happening all around us. It’s better to be prepared for those stressful events.
