(SPOT.ph) It would be a huge understatement when we say that the weather’s been crazy these last few days. It seemed like just yesterday that Bagyong Ferdie was here, and now we’re facing fiercer winds with Gener. What better time to put together an emergency kit? We consulted none other than TV Patrol’s trusty weatherman Kuya Kim Atienza as well as the Philippine Red Cross on the 10 items that are a must in every flood kit. So stay safe, and stay dry!
1. Flashlight with batteries
Eveready Waterproof Combo Pack
In times of flood, a good flashlight will become invaluable. So why not grab something waterproof? Make sure that you have enough batteries to last at least one night.
Available at Ace Hardware, price upon request.
2. Transistor radio
Firefly Halogen Torch with Radio (P999.75)
Having a radio close by is a good way to be aware of what’s going on outside as you brave the storm inside. We figured that it would be okay to hit two birds with one stone with this handy gadget. Just so you know how important this is, a radio was one of the first things both the Philippine Red Cross and Kuya Kim recommended as a must-have in any emergency flood kit.
Available at MC Home Depot
3. Easy to cook or ready-to-eat meals and uncooked rice
Goldilocks’ Pinoy Deli Ulam Packs (P45 to P55)
If there’s one thing that you shouldn’t be during a storm, it’s hungry. Make sure that you have easy-to-prepare meals already set aside in case it would be impossible to cook. Kuya Kim also recommends that you have a can opener on hand, just so you can open any canned goods you may have stored. Be sure you also have enough bigas to last at least three days.
Available at Goldilocks.
4. Clothing
Wet clothes are one of the fastest ways to get sick. It helps to slip into something warmer or dryer when things get a little too wet or cold.
5. Important documents
Office1 Plastic Envelope with Zipper Seal (P12)
The Philippine Red Cross tells us that one of the things that flood victims usually lament over is the loss of important documents kept at home during floods. With that in mind, it would help to have a copy of these documents stored in a sealed envelope. A backup CD could also be helpful and easier to carry.
Available at Office1.ph
6. Five meters of rope
Polypropylene Rope (P 132)
If you’ve seen scenes of flood situations on TV, then you will know why a rope is so important. A strong, sturdy piece of rope can spell the difference between being dragged by the current and getting to a safer spot. In any case, it’s a useful thing to have at home as well.
Available at MC Home Depot
7. Improvised flotation devices
It’s pretty amazing what you can do with a few everyday items. The Philippine Red Cross recommends the use of improvised flotation devices in flood situations. Although life jackets are pretty good, there are some that only last a couple of hours, and so this is where improvised devices might be better. An example they gave us was simply tying together two water gallons (empty, of course) to turn them into a flotation device.
8. Life vest
Orange Lifesaver (P745)
The bright colors make you easy to spot in a rescue situation, and the fact that it comes with a whistle will help make sure you can call a rescuer’s attention when you need to.
Available at Toy Kingdom
9. Whistle
The Striker Whistle (P95)
Anyone who’s seen the rescue sequence in Titanic can tell you just how important a whistle can be. Calling attention to yourself will help rescuers know how you’re faring, and will help pinpont your exact location.
Available at Chris Sports
10. First aid kit
A first aid kit is essential in any emergency situation. Being able to perform first aid is a useful tool when help isn’t readily available. Mercury Drug recommends that every first aid kit must have:
- Antihistamine cream for soothing stings and rashes
- Antiseptic solution (for cleaning minor wounds)
- Aspirin or paracetamol tablets for headache, fever and minor pain relief
- Bandages
- Adhesive plasters (1 packet)
- Adhesive tape for holding dressings (1 roll)
- Crepe bandages (for sprains)
- Elastic bandages (assorted sizes)
- Triangular bandages (3)
- Calamine lotion
- Cotton batting, sterile (1 roll)
- Dressings
- Paraffin gauze (for burns)
- Sterile gauze
- Wound dressings (2 sizes)
- Eyewash
- Flashlight
- Foil blanket (used for keeping warm in cold climate)
- Hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol
- Packet of cotton buds (for applying medicine)
- Safety pins (for holding bandages together)
- Scissors with sharp blades but blunt ends (for first aid use only)
- Tweezers with pointed ends (for removing splinters)
- Any medicine that you need to take regularly