Putting together a survival kit in case of emergencies or disaster is part of being a responsible adult. To protect yourself and your family, put together a kit of emergency preparedness items that will get you through should a need ever arise. What you put in your kit is important, and there are many lists out there that outline the many different items that you should include. “Survival clothing” is one of the items that is almost always included on that list.
What Qualifies As Survival Clothing?
Unfortunately those lists don’t always specify exactly what you need. So the words “extra clothing” or “survival clothing” might not come across as anything very special or important.
When you are stuck in your home or car without power during a snowstorm, “survival clothing” will have more meaning to you. And when you are walking miles and miles across a desert after being stranded due to car troubles, “survival clothing” will have more meaning to you. No matter what situation you may find yourself in, survival clothing is an important part of emergency preparedness.
Harsh Weather Months
Survival clothing is especially important during the harsh weather months when temperatures can soar or plummet, and the weather is doing nothing to help you stay safe. Depending on where you are, the temperatures alone could hurt you, not to mention rain, snow, and all sorts of inclement weather. The clothing that you are wearing, and the extra items you have with you, can make all the difference when it comes to saving your life.
Winter
In the winter, of course, your main goals are to stay warm and dry. Extra sweaters, coats, socks, and proper footwear like boots are all important items to keep on hand. Gloves, hats, and socks are small items that can save your life.
Summer
Summer is all about sun protection. Sunscreen, hats, scarves, and protective eyewear can all help keep you safe from the harsh rays of the sun.
Lightweight, light colored, long sleeved shirts that cover you up without overheating you are a good idea to keep as well. As much as you’ll want to strip off every piece of clothing you have just to stay cool, your clothes help keep the sun off and moisture in.
Milder Weather Months
While the harsher weather months are certainly more dangerous, do not underestimate the dangers of the seemingly mild weather months. Spring and fall might offer more comfortable weather, but there are still extremes to fight.
Spring
No matter how mild it is, remember to protect yourself from the sun all year long. On top of your sun protective gear, you will want to have something warm with you as well. It might be too warm during the day, and then temperatures could plummet at night and during the early morning, so be ready for anything.
Fall
Just like spring, temperatures can be erratic during the fall. When you are out walking all day long without shelter, the sun can become dangerous. Conversely, temperatures can still fall below freezing so you have to be ready for whatever the weather throws at you.
All-Weather Items
No matter what season, there are some survival clothing items that should be kept at all times. Depending on where you are or your own preferences, you may need to add to this basic list:
* Gloves
* Waterproof and sun blocking hat
* Parka or rain jacket
* Snow/rain boots
Putting together a survival kit is one step that you are taking to keep you and your family safe. Understanding why each item is needed can help you make good decisions about what goes into your survival kit. Survival clothing can vary from season to season, and according to the area you live in.