Finding Space in a Big City and a Little Apartment
Preparing for an emergency can be overwhelming at times. We think about how much it will cost, how much space we will need, and how much time it will take. I have a sister who lives in Hoboken, New Jersey, across the river from Manhattan. I am aware that for people living in big cities, space is at a premium. But people in big cities can also face increased risks from terrorists and they may have fewer options in the case of an attack than people who are living in the suburbs. So, how do you prepare when you don’t have anywhere to put things?
You would be amazed at where you can find space if you just get a little creative. My sister renovated her kitchen last year and she decided to do double cabinets all the way to the ceiling. She was unsure of her decision at first, but she has enjoyed a bonus of additional storage space that would have otherwise been wasted.
Don’t assume that you have to have one spot for all of your emergency preparedness items. Look for little spots all around the house. Maybe you can declutter your kitchen and find an empty shelf to store a first aid kit, some lightsticks, a few dust masks, and a few Ready candles.
Keep a Shake Ready light on your nightstand and a Lumin plugged into the bathroom outlet. Stack the 5 gallon stackable water containers on one side of your closet. Stash a Ready bottle in your desk at work and throw another one in the trunk of your car or even in your purse. Keep a 72-hour kit on a hook in your hallway closet. Stash some boxes of MREs and freeze-dried food under your bed. Little changes can make a huge difference, so figure out how some small changes can give you a big feeling of security and peace.
