You have heard it said that the first 72 hours after a disaster are the most critical. This is the time frame when action needs to be taken in order to save lives. Unfortunately, in major disasters there is a good chance that outside help will not reach you until 72 hours. More than likely you will be on your own. The question then becomes, how do I survive the first 72 hours after a disaster?

Before I get to the list, I think it is important to prepare and practice. Survival is a skill that is acquired through study, preparation and practice. Take time to get yourself prepared with basic emergency supplies and a 72 hour emergency survival kit so are ready when disaster strikes. That being said, let me share with you a few insights that will help you and your loved ones make it through a disaster alive.

#1 – Stop, think, don’t panic.

Your most important asset during any emergency is a focused mind. Panic, stress, anger and frustration will only make your situation worse. So after a disaster occurs, stop, look around, observe your surroundings, assess problems and damage and then make a plan that will take care of immediate needs.

#2 – Render first-aid if necessary and possible.

Stabilizing your health and the health of those around you is critical to your survival. So look around and see if you or anyone around you is in need of first-aid. If you are bleeding badly, do what you can to prevent blood loss. Make sure everyone is able to breathe and does not have their breathing obstructed. Do what you can to calm down and help those around you not succumb to shock.

#3 – Find a safe place.

If after a disaster, your immediate location is not safe, then you need to remove yourself and help others get away from the danger as quickly as possible. When moving others, make sure that they are in a condition to be moved. Once you have moved to a safe location, again, stop, think, observe and plan.

#4 – Signal for or find help.

It might be that after a disaster, help is nearby. If you are unable to find help, do what you can to signal for help. You may have a whistle, flashlight, reflective mirrors or bright colored clothing that can be used to signal. If practical, you may need to start a fire to signal others. Be cautious with starting a fire, especially in an urban environment where there could be dangerous or flammable fumes in the area.

#5 – Find drinkable water.

It is critical to keep hydrated. Find clean drinking water to keep you alive. If you are uncertain of the condition of the water, you may boil the water or use a water filter or chemical water tablets to make the water drinkable. Do not drink water that will make you sick. Do all you can to avoid dehydration. Remember, you can go without food for many days, but you will need water within the first 72 hours.

#6 – Find shelter.

Keeping yourself out of the elements will help you survive. Stay out of the wind, rain, sun, cold and heat. You may need to make yourself a temporary shelter. Use whatever you can find around you to make a simple lean-to that will keep you out of the elements.

#7 – Have a way to start a fire.

It may become necessary to start a fire to stay warm. A fire has many provides many advantages for staying warm, boiling water and cooking. If possible, keep waterproof matches, a lighter and magnesium fire starter available for use after a disaster. Again, the same caution applies in urban settings. Fire can be very dangerous if not contained properly. Make sure you are in a safe place to have a fire.