This year has had an exceptional number of powerful hurricanes, typhoons and tropical storms around the world. Storms like Lane and Olivia impacted parts of Hawaii, while Florence, Michael and Willa hit the mainland, causing hundreds of thousands to evacuate due to extreme winds, rain and storm surges.
Although media warnings provide time to prepare, the process of preparation and possible relocation is both stressful and time-consuming.
There also is the additional cost of purchasing food and supplies if electricity or water supplies are compromised.
Regardless of the gift occasion, purchasing or assembling a “Shelter Survival Pack” for those you care about can be lifesaving and a way to say you care.
QUESTION: What goes into a shelter survival pack?
ANSWER: Depending on the type of disaster, most recommend that you have three to seven days of food and water supplies for each member of the family. Even if you shelter in place, having adequate water and nourishment is much more than a luxury.
Luckily today there are lots of online and brick-and-mortar stores selling survival packs containing dehydrated foods with a three- to five-year shelf life.
As the food nears its expiration, add the food to weekend meals or donate it to a hiking club.
Q: What other items should be in survival packs?
A: Survival packs come in many versions and can meet the needs of an individual, a couple or families.
Some contain military-style ration foods while others have gourmet pouches of favorite meals.
Regardless of which style kit you choose, be sure to include a water-purifying system, first-aid kit, portable stove and fuel, fire starter, eating utensils and a lighting source.
Other survival-friendly items include hand wipes, sunscreen, an emergency blanket, a survival knife, collapsible water jugs, chargeable solar lights, batteries and a USB charger connection for cellphones, etc.
Be sure to add your medications and copies of your essential documents, and you will be ready to go in a moment if necessary.
The Hawaiian Electric Co. website (hawaiianelectric.com) is an excellent source of storm information including its Emergency Preparedness Handbook and checklist. It is available in English, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Ilocano, and Korean. You can also obtain a printed copy from Hawaiian Electric by calling 543-7511.
Q: When is a good time to purchase a survival pack?
A: Follow the Scouts motto, “Be prepared.” Hurricane season in the runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.
Near the end of hurricane season survival packs and supplies generally go on sale.
Shopping these sales is an effective way to stretch those holiday shopping dollars and give a gift of peace of mind, though you hope the supplies will never be needed.
