Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse

Posted February 01, 2013 - Photo aficionado

With the release of a zombie rom-com movie this weekend and AMC's The Walking Dead returning to our television screens shortly, we thought it might be a great time to share our zombie preparedness tips. Fuelled by a blog about zombies and emergency preparedness from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, North America has become almost obsessed with imagining how they would fare if the walking dead started roaming their neighbourhood.

A poster image of a zombie-like figure peeking behind a blanket, with the words: Get a kit, make a plan, be prepared Photo Credit: http://www.cdc.gov/phpr/zombies

 

Did you know that your emergency kit contains tools and supplies that can also be used in the event of an outbreak of the zombie virus? Here is how items in your emergency kit can help you survive the zombie apocalypse:

  • Water: Let’s face it: zombie slaying is going to make you thirsty! Your water source may become contaminated with zombie fluids and compromise your safety. Keeping a 72-hour supply of water (4 litres per person, per day for washing and drinking) for each person in your household will help ensure you have enough water to make it to a shelter.
  • Food: A 72-hour supply of non-perishable food items that require no refrigeration, cooking, preparing, or added water will help fuel your body to help you escape the outbreak and find a Red Cross shelter.
  • Flashlight: Once the zombie apocalypse is in full swing, you can’t rely on the electrical service company to keep your power on and without lighting, the zombie world becomes even more dangerous.
  • Radio: In the event of an infection, emergency broadcasts will be vital in communicating information on how to protect yourself and where to find shelters. Make sure your radio is crank or battery operated.
  • Scissors and a multi-tool: Basic tools like scissors, a small hammer, wrench, and screwdriver can help you pick locks to scavenge for food and supplies and help fortify your shelter.
  • Duct tape: This multi-use tool can help you with everything from immobilizing a zombie to fixing practically anything.
  • First aid kit: You’re going to want to carry a small first aid kit on you at all times. Your new survivalist life will come with its share of scrapes, blisters, and cuts, and you’ll need to cover them to help decrease your own risk of infection.

And most importantly, keep a copy of your emergency plan on you at all times. This should highlight special meeting places for your friends and family in the event of an outbreak.

Should a zombie apocalypse never occur, your emergency kit will also help you survive emergencies or disasters.

For more information on how to prepare for a zombie apocalypse or any other emergency, visit www.redcross.ca/ready and check out PrepareTV's episode on zombies.

About the Blogger

Jamie-Leigh Cuthbertson

Jamie-Leigh Cuthbertson

Photo curator extraordinaire, Jamie is on the hunt for the best images to illustrate the inspiring work of the Red Cross, whether it’s here in Canada, or in a remote corner of the world. For a glimpse into Red Cross history, check out her Throwback Thursday posts.

comments powered by Disqus