So I got all excited yesterday about the idea of a PSK/FAK contained in a Nalgene bottle. I'm making a list of everything I think I can cram in there, including a couple of energy bars for emergency food, but then I think maybe I should be making one of these for every member of the family...identical contents and also something that could be a grab and go. Thought about leaving them in the car maybe. Then I got to thinking, instead of having one family BOB, maybe there should be a BOB for each family member. A standard set of gear, plus each individual can customize a few things...a favorite activity or book, etc.

I'm thinking that would provide for some independence too in case someone gets seperated. As opposed to different family members carrying different gear that supports other family members' gear. Each BOB becomes stand alone and not dependent on other gear. That way not one person has the food, or water or fire kit, etc.

What do other families do?

Growing up, everyone's kit had food, water, warm clothing, basic shelter, et al, suitable for the user's build and skill. Those big enough to have a knife add thier own, everyone sets up thier own firestarting gear, tossing in a book. Those that are able to carried additional, team gear in thier packs.

Now that my folks mostly live alone, and given thier professions, it is a matter of bugging in. On high ground with good water and self sufficent for heat, it's thier best option.

I like the idea, but use the naglene for water and carry the stuff somewhere else --possibly a waistpack for each family member?

TRO

I am currently assembling two BOBs for myself and my wife. I am basing the contents on this pre-assembled pack from a company here in New Zealand:

http://www.prepare.co.nz/shoppingcart/default.cfm?cat_id=1308

I would like some comments please on the items that have been chosen for their kit. I am assembling one each for us, and we will modify our own to suit.

What we are using are some backpacks from KMart, with pretty much everything listed on the prepare.co.nz site. From that list, still to procure:

- A decent torch (flashlight)- I want an LED torch with right-angle head powered by AAA batteries. If I don't find one soon I'll get something to fill the gap while I'm looking.
- Aquatabs. Easily available.
- A drink bottle
- Spare batteries
...and fill in the checklist and list of important numbers!

Differences from that list:

- Bag is a KMart rucksack (looked strong enough, and has comfortable straps)
- Radio is a small AM/FM AAA radio with speaker and headphones.
- FAK is quite small. I don't know what theirs is, but ours is pretty basic and I've added some paracetamol and antiseptic cream (for burns, cuts and stings etc.)
- Only one pack of waterproof matches
- Only two candles (might go up to 6)
- Roll of 20 rubbish bags (trash bags)
- Probably will forgo the drink bottle and pack 2x2litre bottled water

Additions:
- Bic Mini lighter
- Can opener
- Wooly hat and gloves
- Compass and thermometer on keyring (not accurate, but certainly consistent)
- Copies of personal documents (these will be done Real Soon Now)
- Magnetic board games (chess and backgammon)

Here in New Zealand we expect to have to evacuate due to floods and earthquakes, but we won't have to evacuate too far and the gub'mint is fairly well prepared to sort things out afterwards. The BOB is for when we have to leave the house due to its recent or imminent destruction. We also have an "earthquake kit" with bigger items and lots more water for the case where we don't have to leave, but there are no services like water and electricity (can pitch a tent in the back garden if the house falls down). I am also putting some stuff in the car, but generally you would stay in the car for shelter, and if you can attract attention you will be found if you've gone astray. In addition we both carry a Ritter PSK (mine's modified).

On the assumption that something's better than nothing, we're doing quite well...

A

I like the idea to, but kind of hard to boil water in a nalgene bottle. <img src="/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> But, you take the same gear and throw it in a coffee can...now you've got cooking power!!!

I see what you are trying to accomplish, but I don't think I would want to be caught without something to boil water in...yep, I know tin foil works...but not very well. You don't even have to use a coffee can...if you know anyone with a baby..Similac cans are metal and just about half the size of 1 lb coffee can. Small enough to fit in any size back pack and some waistpacks..yet you can boil water. My wife makes fun of me..but I have a 7 month old and I have saved every can.

Just my opinion. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

If you assume that the family is bugging out together, it makes sense to spread the "one-each" items around to be carried by whoever is appropriate - perhaps based on weight or size.

You can also double up on medical items and small tools.

On the other hand I think it would be difficult to guarantee that everyone would be together - some duplication of essential supplies might be in order.

Our's all have some common items. Complete change of clothes, SAK, LED key chain light, "real" flashlight, various multi tools, whistle, BIC lighter.

Dave

If you have kids, check out the following ETS site pages:

Survival for Kids

and include something like this:

STOP Mnemonic

I had a PDF for this STOP thing, but unfortunately, I can't find it. I _swear_ someone on here mentioned it and linked it, but I cannot find it in the archives.

I think you're definitely on the right track, besides, redundancy never hurts. Getting everybody to carry everything they need may be another issue.

Troy