Survival Tools and Gear
Surviving a natural disaster is easier when you are adequately prepared.
In addition to having a disaster emergency plan in place, it's important to stock up on the right survival tools and gear.
There is no guarantee that any particular piece of gear is going to save your life. However, having the right gear when you need it – and knowing how to use it – is very important. Be informed about the survival tools and gear you purchase and understand what YOUR needs are as well as what each piece of equipment can do for you.
You can find a lot of what you need without having to pay top-dollar, too. Finding used camping supplies or some military surplus gear can make a huge difference in how much survival gear you can get for your money.
It is also possible to buy new products without spending a lot. Do your research. Find out which products get the best reviews. Some products ARE worth paying a little more for because they last longer - or serve a dual purpose.
Supplies and Tools for Survival
A brief overview of essential survival tools and gear is highlighted below.
Make sure to have ready access to the following tools and equipment in the event of a disaster. Ideally, they should be packed up in an easy-to-carry disaster survival kit.
- Sighting Compass w/ Pouch – Without a compass, any map you have is going to be worthless. Don't forget that smartphones and other mobile devices probably won't work after a serious disaster.
- First Aid Kit Buy the best one that you can afford. It's especially smart to buy a few first aid kits and store them in your home, car and where you work. That way, one should always be within easy reach.
- Signal Flares – This is a good way to signal for help.
- Leatherman Multi-Tool
- MagLite Flashlight
- Whistle – Help people locate you and other survivors more easily with a whistle.
- Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife
- Emergency Weather Radio - Buy a battery backed-up model. Stock up on spare batteries and store them with the radio as well. These even come with hand crank battery recharge options now, too.
- Stansport "Scout" Backpack Tent – If possible, stock up on camping gear and camping supplies too. Other options include plastic sheets, blankets and waterproof ponchos.
- Midland Two-Way Radios
- Wrench – Test it first to make sure that it can be used to shut off the water and gas in your home.
- Gerber Bear Grylls Fire Starter – A reusable, refillable lighter is also nice to have. Without fire starters, you will struggle to get a fire going.
- Kidde Multi Purpose Fire Extinguisher Compact canisters are available.
- Mess Kit– The aftermath of a disaster is not the time to break out the fine china.
- Cash – Set aside a small amount of cash. Make sure to include some change too. You may not be able to use your credit card or debit card.
- Disaster Preparedness Manual – Even if you've done a lot of research about surviving a disaster, it never hurts to have a manual with you. You never know what you'll have to face, and the right manual can be absolutely priceless.
Survival Tools and Gear
Here are some survival items you might want to consider for deeper treks into the wild:
- Emberlit Wood-burning Portable Stove
I
n addition to arming yourself with camping gear, military surplus equipment and other survival equipment, learn as much as you can about getting through a disaster (reading everything you can, attending workshops, hanging out with like-minded people, etc.).With the right knowledge and the right equipment, you will be a lot more likely to survive.