72 Hour Kits-How many kits do I need?
When my husband and I were first married, we took my father’s advice to purchase a 2-person 72-hour kit for our new home as well as our car. This ensured us we’d have the essentials we needed to survive the first 72 hours of an emergency situation, if one were to arise. We felt safe and secure knowing we had the kits to rely on.
Two and a half years later, my husband and I were both at work when a flash flood hit our city. The flood was so severe we lost all power and couldn’t evacuate the building. Immediately I tried calling my husband on his cell phone, but no cell service was available. Trying to evacuate the building, one of my coworkers had been injured to the point where he needed first aid. And of course, I kept thinking in my head…where is my 72-hour kit when I need it? I knew my kit included essential items we desperately needed; like flashlights and candles, emergency blankets, an AM/FM radio with batteries, a first aid kit, water and food. All things we didn’t have access to in our part of the building.
Needless to say, we were stuck in the building for almost 9 hours until we were rescued. Yes, my coworker was fine after he finally got the medical attention he needed, however I can’t help but to think what would have happened if it had taken longer.
Less than a week later, my husband purchased 2 more 72-hour kits for both of us to bring to work. After going through this experience, I can’t imagine not having a kit on hand in a place where I spend 8 hours of my day. Now my husband and I promote our 72 hour kits and advise everyone we know and care about to purchase one for each member of their family, not only for at home and in the car, but for their place of work too!
