Series: Hurricane Emergency Preparedness Supplies for Meals Made in the USA

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Each time a major storm hits the US, an updated supply list comes out. The lessons are learned and the preparation changes for the next one.

The truth is you can never really prepare for the some of the damage that these storms wreak upon those in its path.  You can, however, prepare for when the lights go out and the debris is getting cleaned up.

Making meals without electricity may present a challenge.  Being prepared lessens the challenge.  

Here are two lists of foods to keep on hand in case of an emergency.

The first list can be found on Ready, from the US Dept. of Homeland Security.  This is their website to help you plan ahead for disasters.  Here is the second list.

To plan your meals, think of things that you eat on a daily basis.  Then substitute some of the foods with shelf-stable options.

Another option for food is to buy the freeze-dried packages.

1. Food Prep

via Amazon 

Top: Broil King Crown, propane grill 

Center: Wolf Campfire Trio

Bottom: Lodge Dutch oven, 5 quart

If you have the outdoor space (safety and weather permitting), cooking during a power outage is not as bad as it could be.  You can create many good meals on a grill, or a grate with an open fire.

2. Outdoor Cookware

via Amazon 

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5 piece Bundle & Seasoned Cast Iron Care Kit

A set of cast iron cookware, like this set from Lodge, is made to be used indoors and outdoors.

Having this cookware makes it easier to cook outside, or even at all.  You can also boil water, for many uses, such as making coffee or preparing freeze-dried food.  Boiling water makes the water safe for consumption.

3. Disposable Utensils

via Amazon 

Top left: Dixie plates, 10-inch, 204 count

Top right: Preserve Plastic cutlery, 24 count

Bottom left: Greenbrier Napkins, 150 count

Bottom right: Siptown White Paper Cups, 200 count

Tableware is on the emergency preparedness checklist.  Having disposable utensils preserves the water for drinking, instead of washing dishes.

4. Clean-Up

via Amazon 

Top: Hefty Tall Kitchen Bags 

Bottom: Bounty Paper Towels

As part of preparing for an emergency, clean-up is also something to think about.  Having paper towels and garbage bags are important, especially if you are cleaning up a medical issue or emergency.

5. Fire Extinguisher

via Amazon 

Amerex 90-417 B417, 2.5lb ABC Dry Chemical Class A B C Fire Extinguisher

When preparing for an emergency, you just never know what is going to happen.  No one wants to think of a fire happening, but it is not something that comes to mind when waiting for a storm, as an example.

A fire extinguisher does not prevent fires, but it will help to contain one.  Having no power means you may be cooking on an open fire.  Keep the fire extinguisher handy.

Conclusion

Finding supplies for emergency preparedness that are made in the USA may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!