72 hour warmth

A critical part of your 72 hour kits will be some kind of blanket for each member of your family. They provide warmth and give a feel of security. It can also be used as a screen to provide some privacy in a crowded area or evacuation center. Blankets are especially important if you live in a place like Utah where it snows all Spring:)

There is a difference between those Emergency blankets and a real blanket in your kit. The difference is comfort in a time of disaster. Children and adults will be afraid and the warmth and comfort of a blanket could make a hug impact. It is recommended that everyone have an emergency blanket in your kits and use it over your regular blanket for extra warmth. You can buy these for about a dollar at Emergency Essentials or most likely Walmart as well.

Not every blanket is a good choice. You need something that is lightweight and dries quickly. I looked around my house for all of my blankets and found plenty for each member(including the dog:)

-Virgin acrylic blankets: many of these car blankets can be found in discount drug or department stores

-Fleece throws: You can find these blankets at just about any store.

Blankets like wool, polyester, sleeping bag, thermal and comforters are bulky and take a long time to dry. These are good to have in your home in case of a power outage but not practical for a 72 hr kit.

How to Store it? The major problem with blankets is how to fit them in your kit.

- Duffel bag: I put all of my blankets in a large duffel bag with a handle and wheels. We had it around the house from some company giveaway. I put all of my families blankets in here as well as mine, Robs and baby's clothes. I put it in a tash bag first to protect from moisture. It is light and easy to strap around me.

- If your kit is a blanket you can wrap your blanket in plastic and wrap and fasten it around your bucket.

-Backpack with frame: if this is your 72 hour kit you can easily attach a rolled blanket(after covering it with a plastic bag to protect it form water)

-Space saver: My brother in law has one of those food saver machines that sucks the plastic out of the bags provided. All of his clothes, blankets, hygiene items and food are so compact and he can fit a lot more in his kit---this is my next step for my kits.

Hand and toe warmers:These can ne nice to have to put in pockets or shoes to keep warm. I found this 4- pack at walmart for about $1.50. Each one has up to 10 hours of heat

Canned heat: can be lit and have up to 10 hours of heat. They are $4.50 at Emergency Essentials

Poncho: It is a great idea to have a poncho in your pack to keep warm and dry. Wish I had one this week...Also about a dollar each.

Do what works best for your family!
(It's time to Plan Not Panic by Barbara Salsbury)