Survival kit

Survival Kit

A survival kit is a package of basic tools and supplies prepared in advance as an aid to survival in an emergency. Civil and military aircraft, lifeboats, and spacecraft are equipped with survival kits. Survival kits, in a variety of sizes, contain supplies and tools to provide a survivor with basic shelter against the elements, help them to keep warm, meet health and first aid needs, provide food and water, signal to rescuers, and assist in finding the way back to help. Supplies in a survival kit normally include a knife (often a Swiss army knife or a multi-tool), matches, tinder, first aid kit, bandana, fish hooks, sewing kit, and a flashlight.

Contents

The contents of a survival kit vary widely depending on the anticipated needs and the knowledge of the person assembling it. However, certain components are considered essential for any survival kit:

• Water Purification Supplies: Including tablets or filters to purify water for drinking.
• Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items such as high-energy bars.
• Fire-Making Kit: Matches, lighter, and fire starters.
• Shelter: Items that can be used to create a shelter from the elements, such as a lightweight tent, tarp, or space blanket.
• First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies to handle minor injuries and illnesses.
• Tools: A multi-purpose tool or knife, signaling mirror, and a whistle.
• Navigation Aids: Compass, map, and possibly a GPS device.
• Lighting: Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
• Communication Devices: In some cases, a cell phone or a portable radio.

Types of Survival Kits

Survival kits can be classified based on their use and the environment they are designed for, such as:

• Personal Survival Kits: Small kits designed for individual use, often carried in a pocket or backpack.
• Vehicle Survival Kits: Larger kits that contain supplies to support individuals who travel by vehicle.
• Aircraft Survival Kits: These kits are designed specifically for the survival of passengers and crew of an aircraft that might face an emergency landing or crash.
• Maritime Survival Kits: Intended for use on lifeboats and life rafts; these kits contain fishing gear, water-distillation units, and reflective signaling devices.
• Disaster Kits: Designed for use in the aftermath of a disaster where the basic services and structures have been disrupted.

Importance

The importance of survival kits cannot be overstated. In the event of an emergency, having access to essential supplies can mean the difference between life and death. Survival kits are designed to provide individuals with the necessary tools to sustain life until help can arrive or until they can reach safety.

Preparation and Maintenance

It is crucial not only to prepare a survival kit but also to maintain it. This includes regularly checking the kit for expired items, replenishing used supplies, and ensuring that all equipment is in working order. Familiarity with the contents of the kit and how to use them is equally important.

See Also

• Emergency management
• Wilderness first aid
• Outdoor survival skills
• Disaster preparedness