List of Food to Have on Hand for a Basic Emergency
Being prepared for emergency situations will help you fare better than if you are taken by surprise. In the unlikely event of an emergency--whether that is a flood, hurricane, tornado or other disaster--preparation can make a huge difference in your ability to weather the storm. Stock up on the proper necessities so they will be available if you need them. Your disaster supplies kit, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, should contain essential food, water, and supplies for at least three days. Does this Spark an idea?
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Non-Perishables
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Foods that are non-perishable are those defined as foods that can last for a long time without needing to be refrigerated. It does not mean they will not ever spoil or go rotten, but non-perishables such as canned fruits or vegetables can last for years without needing special care. Cereals, granola and protien bars are acceptable if stored in air-tight containers. Of course, canned foods should be kept with a manual can opener and eating utensils also should be kept on hand. Be sure to have foods that do not need to be cooked and that can be prepared, if necessary, without adding water.
Non-Salty Foods
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Water could be a scarce resource in an emergency situation and foods that are salty should be avoided. Salt-free crackers and canned foods that have a lot of liquid in them should be chosen over salty foods.
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High-Nutrition Foods
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Foods high in nutritional value will be very valuable if your food supply becomes scarce. Walnuts, pecans and almonds are non-perishable and can be eaten without preparation. Dried fruits will last for a long time and provide important vitamins and nutrients. Peanut butter and other items high in protein also are helpful.
Liquids
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Water is necessary for human survival . One gallon per person per day is recommended, although more may be needed if there is a medical emergency, you are in a very hot environment or someone falls ill. Drinks containing electrolytes, such as sports drinks, also would prove valuable.
Special Circumstance Foods
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Members of your family may have dietary requirements or restrictions that need to be considered.Take special care to accommodate those needs in your supplies. If you could be caring for infants, have a sufficient supply of whatever food source the child needs--formula, baby foods, cereals--and even a supply of breast milk if the child is breast feeding--although this must be refrigerated. It is also a good idea to pack "comfort" foods that are family favorites. Though these may not have great nutritional value, having them might help keep spirits up and take some stress out of a stressful situation.
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References
- Photo Credit flood image by brelsbil from Fotolia.com
