By Chris
We live comfortable lives, at a great remove from our distant ancestors who were content with a dry cave and a full stomach. In the event of an emergency or life-changing disaster we too will have three basic needs; food, shelter and warmth. In preparation for an apocalyptic crisis it is advisable to have a bug out bag packed and ready at a moment’s notice – sometimes that is all you will get! A bug out bag contains sufficient food, water and other essential supplies to ensure survival for approximately 72 hours.
Books are not a commodity often considered essential, and in the context of a bug out bag it seems almost ridiculous to consider including any of them at all! However, there is a small selection of books that is strongly recommended for inclusion, books that contain information that can make all the difference between survival and death in an extreme situation.
The three main books to take are map books, first aid information, and information books on how to survive by building shelter, finding and purifying water and food, and locating other human settlement.
Travel Information
It is all too easy to think, ‘Well, I have my satnav, I don’t need a map book,’ but this is faulty logic. Depending on the nature of the disaster, it is possible that electronic equipment will not work after the event. Up to date maps of the immediate area should be purchased and kept inside the bug out bag, only being removed when an updated version is purchased. Maps should feature all the landmarks and nearby features to aid in navigation from one area to another without the need for unnecessary backtracking and diversions.
First Aid Information
This is self-explanatory – after a disaster or catastrophe it is only to be expected that one or more members of the party, or even people in the wider community, might be injured or ill. Having a ready source of information to hand to guide survivors through basic first-aid and emergency treatment is sure to help survival rates and boost morale. First aid manuals should be studied by as many family members as possible rather than relying on one person who might be absent or in need of treatment themselves when the event happens.
How To Books
Choose a compact but comprehensive manual, preferably one geared to the appropriate climate zone. A good manual should contain practical advice with clear but detailed diagrams and have a wealth of quick and easy tips that can make surviving a disaster a little bit easier for all concerned.
Pack your bug out bag with care and attention and do not be tempted to skimp. It is infinitely better to purchase a high quality product and not to need it, than to have to place your life and those of your children and other family members on a cheap and flimsy piece of equipment purchased because you did not truly believe that you would ever need it.
Author bio: Thanks for taking the time to read my article! I’m Chris an outdoors enthusiast and a keen survivalist and work at SimplyHike.co.uk. I’ve been writing and blogging about the great outdoors for the last two years and you can find more of my articles at http://blog.simplyhike.co.uk
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