Emergency Preparedness: Clothing and Shelter

When deciding what is important with clothing and shelter you will need to consider: who you are preparing for, where, and what you can carry. Please know that these are suggestions and your needs are different from other's. You also need to think about your expenses. If you can only do some of the items, then that is a great start. Know that if you can't buy a tent, a tarp with rope will work just fine, except in extremely cold weather.

So, for Level 1 preparedness (which is minimal level) this is what you need to consider:
Do you have a minimum of one of the following for shelter?

• Plastic sheeting (ground cover, tenting, windbreak)
• Large (33-gal. or larger) plastic bags
• Mylar emergency "Space" blanket

 Twine or rope is needed no matter.

Do you have the following for personal protection?

• Large (33-gal. or larger) plastic bags (2 for and improvised sleeping bag or poncho)
• Mylar emergency "Space" blanket
• Change of clothing (needs to be appropriate for the season) for each person
• Large handkerchief or bandanna
• Hat

Level 2 Preparedness is all from Level 1 PLUS the following:

For Personal Protection add the following:

• Blanket (wool is preferred)
• Poncho
• Extra Shoes
• Gloves (for work and warmth)
• Goggles
• Dust/mist Respirator
• Sunglasses
• Work Boots
• Insect netting
• Extra large plastic bags

For Basic Shelter add the following:

• Rope
• Duct Tape
• Wire

Level 3 Preparedness is all of the above AND the following:

At least one of the following for each person:

• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping pad, foam or inflatable
• Plastic Ripstop Tarp ( min. 12'x12')
• Several changes of clothing

For longer emergencies:

• RV or Camper (not necessary but it would be nice)
• Dome/Family tent
• Ground cloth
• Camp stool/chair

Additional Preparedness:

• Instant hand/body warming pads
• Sturdy belt
• Sturdy work gloves

Additional Comfort (for extreme weather):

• Shorts
• Sunscreen
• Long pants and long-sleeved shirty
• Thermal underwear