| One of the nice things about preparedness is that in the broad sense it doesn't have to be disaster specific. When we get into the fine details there are some specific things to have on hand but by preparing the basics, you will be prepared for most of what could come.
The basics are Food, Water, Shelter and Fire, followed by First Aid, Security, Communication and Transportation. I will touch briefly on some of these and provide a few links for you to check out.
FOOD - Store what you eat and eat what you store. The key is to look for deals and get started. Click on the link below for a food calculator to help you determine what to get for a well rounded long-term supply. You will be able to download an excel file that is pretty good.
WATER - This has been a problem in Japan. It is recommended 3 gallons per day per person. That is nearly 10 gallons per person for 3 days! Do the math and decide how much you should have. Remember that not all water is for drinking. You will need water to cook, to wash, for hygiene and to flush toilets. We store water in just about every plastic container with a good lid. We also have a good gravity-fed water filter so we can filter water however it is stored into good drinking water. Check out Berkey Water Filters, they are some of the best.
 SHELTER - If you are fortunate enough to be able to shelter-in-place, your home is ideal. However, you may need a way to keep warm (at least one room in your house). But let's say there is an earthquake and your home is not safe or perhaps you need to relocate for a time, then a good tent, trailer or motor home will be worthwhile. Most tents and camping equipment that is purchased really inexpensively is two season equipment. Meaning that it works okay for the first season, but starts to break and fall apart then next. I have learned, the hard way, that you really do get what you pay for. Buy quality and it can last a life time. Follow the link below for great quality tents that can outlast you if cared for.
 FIRE - for cooking and warmth. Do you have the means to prepare hot meals for 3 days to a week if you have no gas or electricity at home? Psychologically, fire is very comforting. I recommended charcoal and Dutch ovens (always, always to be used outside). Can you make a fire using only one match? - hint - use the first match to light a candle and your job will be easier. I've taught my scouts 8 different ways to start a fire without using matches. But it's okay for you to store plenty of matches. Think this one through and have a plan for cooking and warmth. FIRST AID - Even if you do not feel proficient in first aid, put together or purchase a good first aid kit. Follow this link to a great first aid kit list I've put together and pick up a copy of my book Herbal First Aid and Health Care available through Western Botanicals or Amazon.
COMMUNICATION - If the phones and the power go down, will you be able to get in contact and keep in contact with those you love? You can become a HAM radio operator or get a few hand held radios. Hand held two-way radios are great to have and can be used for many purposes.
I challenge each of us to make an assessment of what we have and make a list of what we may need. Prioritize the list. If we do nothing other than fill all of our empty containers with water and stash them away, we will be more prepared than we were. | 
What would you recommend for people with a low-income? So many of the emergency essentials are expensive and as a college student the task seems daunting, even if you are trying to prepare.
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