Once the very basic essentials are stocked and provided for, including ample water and food to sustain a protracted SHTF, then there are other immediate supply needs to fulfill. This goes beyond but does include the acquisition of tools and gear or skills development for self-defense, protection, and security.
But these other items are to protect, comfort, ease pain, and deal with a variety of medical issues that are more or less common but not necessarily life threatening. Every day maladies, illnesses, and health issues besides sanitation can greatly impact the survivability of individuals and teams trying to outlast natural or unnatural disasters.
If you have not yet done so, plan to add to your prepping task list the creation of a medical oriented bug out bag well stocked with a wide variety of easy to acquire over-the-counter medications. This will become a go-to bag source for any number of illnesses that might occur during a SHTF event.
Common conditions that can crop up at any time includes but not limited to headache, fever, sore throats, ear aches, heartburn, dehydration, menstrual cramps, arthritis, stomach issues, diarrhea, congestion, nausea, vomiting, poison ivy, ringworm, foot issues, skin issues, insomnia, back or muscle aches, gout, diaper rash, as well as many other sicknesses.
The good news is that many of these conditions can be treated, eased, and cured with over-the-counter medications readily available at any local pharmacy, big box, or other department store carrying such products. Just make a list and go shopping to build your OTC-BOB.
Here is a list of suggested items you will want to keep in supply for your med bag:
• Ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen
• Aspirin
• Benadryl
• Antihistamines
• Imodium
• Sudafed
• Dramamine
• Zantac
• Hydrocortisone Cream
• Triple Antibiotic Ointment
• Antifungal Medications
• Mucinex
• Calamine Lotion
• Multivitamins
• Temporary Dental Filings
• Eye Drops
• Saline Spray
• Vaseline
• Burn Gel
• First Aid Kit supplies, bandages, band aides, gauze, tape, elastic wraps, eye patches, blood clot aides, sutures, wound/cut glue, finger protectors, splints, and assorted other related supplies.
Of course, this is not a 100 per cent comprehensive list. Every time I walk the aisles of a pharmacy or related big box store section I see new items to add to my OTC-BOB.
Trust me though, during a SHTF event even a stomach ache, pulled muscle, or head cold can really take its toll. Build out your OTC bag now and be prepared.
