How to Make a Personal Survival Kit

Pack tools as compactly as you can.

Everyone should have a survival pack stored away to stay safe in a time of need. You never know when a storm, a power outage, a midnight car breakdown or even a national emergency may strike. A survival kit of any size should help you stay warm, hydrated and fed and should give you ways to signal for help.

Things You'll Need

• Waterproof container
• Fire starters
• Blankets
• Light sources
• Water purifier
• Water containers
• Food
• First-aid items
• Tools
• Compass

Instructions

1. Choose a waterproof case of a size you can comfortably transport, either in a pack or in a vehicle. A survival kit must be completely functional and ready at all times.

2. Pack at least two means of starting a fire. Fire is one of the most important things that you must have to survive if you're exposed to the elements. Butane lighters, camping fire starters and tinder are all good choices.

3. Include an emergency survival blanket for each member of your group or family. These can mean the difference between life and death in extreme conditions.

4. Pack at least two light sources. Consider hand crank battery-free flashlights, light sticks and battery-run lanterns and flashlights. Pack extra batteries, too.

5. Plan on ways to purify water. Water purification straws and kits will help you stay hydrated without contracting a water-borne illness. Include a sealed container of water in the kit if you can, empty water containers if you're packing light.

6. Include food for all the members of your group, enough to keep you nourished for three days or more. Military-grade meals ready to eat, dehydrated foods meant for camping, protein bars and granola bars are all good choices.

7. Tuck in first-aid basics, such as compression bandages, gauze pads, antibiotic ointment and instant heat/cold packs.

8. Pack tools you can use to construct a simple shelter and catch food. A folding knife, a wire saw, a fishing line and hook, a length of nylon rope and a gill net will all come in handy.

9. Place navigation tools in the kit, such as a compass.

References

• "Build the Perfect Survival Kit"; John D. McCann; 2005