Basic Supplies

In order to expedite your preparation work, you'll need a few supplies. You should have some of these items in your home already.

1) Sharpie-type markers: You'll need to label things. Sharpies can be used to write on plastic, cardboard, almost any surface. Unlike magic markers, the ink is sometimes removeable (see below).

2) Rubbing alcohol: Use this to remove Sharpie ink from plastic and metal to change information (for instance, to change expiration dates when rotating food).

3) Ziploc bags: You'll need to waterproof your supplies. ALL of your supplies. Also, some disasters, such as floods or forest fires, can drive animals and insects into populated areas (read: pests in your home). Pilfer-proofing your consumables (including toiletries and paper products) is a necessary precaution.

4) Storage containers: When you shop, ask a store employee if they have any empty cardboard boxes you can have. If they ask why, you can tell them you're moving (probably best not to advertise that you're a "prepper"). Stock up on these boxes, even if you don't have an immediate need for all of them.

5) Duct tape: For sealing boxes and bags.

6) Plastic bags: Save your disposable grocery bags. They can also be used for waterproofing. When used for this purpose, first check them for holes (and seal the holes with duct tape). Sometimes these will be adequate for waterproofing (saving you the cost of zipper-type bags), and other times not.

7) Black plastic trash bags: I will mention uses for these periodically. Obtain several rolls of them.

Some of these items also belong in your emergency supplies. Keep your emergency supplies and your preparation supplies separate. For example, have a roll of duct tape for sealing boxes and bags, and another roll of duct tape stored for emergency use.

Also, although it isn't necessary, a vacuum sealing appliance such as FoodSaver is a very handy thing to have. It helps preserve perishable items, and create your own custom-sized waterproof bags.