It’s vague and foggy but if I squint my eyes and focus my thoughts, I can remember. I recall the days oh so long ago (or three months) when the word Coronavirus meant nothing to me. Now it’s a thought that sends shivers up my spine. Those shivers send me running toward the thermometer to make sure I haven’t caught a fever. The thought has landed many people Coronavirus shopping (and likely overbuying), too.
While I jest, this emergency isn’t really a laughing matter. Many of us may be required to work from home and in the greater Indianapolis area, and families are figuring out how e-learning for local schools works, too. I’m praying that the hard working health care professionals find a solution to the recent outbreak. But, I’m also aware that we may be at home for a couple of weeks at a time.
While we don’t have a bunker in the backyard, I am intentional about keeping supplies on hand in our home in case of an emergency. Whether it’s a pandemic, a prolonged power outage, or intemperate weather that keeps you homebound, you need to build a stockpile of necessities. There’s no need for a year’s worth of goods (please stop buying roll upon roll of toilet paper), but some simple forethought may save you both money and worry in a time of need.
Prescriptions and OTCs
One of the first boxes to check when it comes to preparedness is medications. When possible, keep at least a month’s worth of any necessary prescriptions at home. Check with your pharmacy to know your options. You’ll also want to purchase some basic over the counter medicines, too. Obviously, pain and fever relievers rank right, but don’t forget those for minor ongoing issues like antacids or even antibiotic creams and bandaids for cuts.
Cleaning Supplies
You’ve probably seen the recent signage limiting the number of certain cleaning supplies you can purchase in stores. Let’s be honest, you don’t need enough disinfectant wipes to run a hospital. However, it is a good idea to keep a nice supply of basics on hand. Before you rush out to the store, evaluate what you already have. Sometimes, we discover more than we realize at the back of the cabinet. Then, build a list of what you need – realizing everything might not be on the shelf when you go to the store. Don’t forget items like laundry detergent and dishwashing detergent since you might go through more if there’s illness in your home.
If you get into a pinch, you can always purchase ingredients to make your own cleaners, too. White vinegar, washing soda, and borax always top the list for me. These versatile components can be combined in a number of ways to clean up your home. Isopropyl alcohol is also a basic disinfectant that can be used in combination with aloe to make your own hand sanitizer when you’re in a pinch.
Personal Hygiene Products
Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, diapers, pads, and tampons – we use dozens of products daily that any household could run out of in a two week period of time. Again, before you rush the aisles, begin by taking an inventory of what you already have. Emergencies rarely necessitate a six month supply. But if it looks as if you could run out of something over a couple of weeks, it’s a smart idea to grab an extra bottle or package.
A note on one hot ticket item that’s in demand: Most experts claim masks do more harm than good in this situation. We didn’t purchase any but also don’t plan on being in the public much for the next few weeks.
Paper Goods
Ok, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Yes, you may require an extra package or two of toilet paper. However, you don’t need an industrial sized pallet to cover your needs. However, purchasing an assortment of paper goods does come in handy during an emergency situation. Especially in a weather related crisis, you may not have access to running water to wash dishes or towels. Purchasing a package or two of paper plates, paper towels, and even disposable utensils isn’t a bad idea. However, you shouldn’t be buying a full stockroom capable of running a restaurant. And you should be careful to keep these items in reserve for when you really need them rather than putting them into a daily rotation.
P.S. estimates indicate that Americans use around 1 roll of TP per week (some say 3 but the math gets very fuzzy). I think even 1 per person is a little high. Around 12 basic rolls (not the double/triple stuff) should work per person. We use way less than a roll per day of the double roll stuff even when we’re all home. If you’re a mom, you know because you’re the only one who changes it out. One large package (not bulk) should do it friends. Buy two if you’re nervous but check how much you already have before rushing to the store. Don’t get carried away. We had enough on hand, I didn’t buy a single extra roll.
Non-perishable Food Items
Last but not certainly not least, you also want to be sure you keep a decent supply of shelf stable food items on hand in case you’re unable to go to the grocery store. Rice, pasta, peanut butter, and canned vegetables are safe bets to help you feed your family in a time of need. Stocking up the freezer with meats, fruits and vegetables, and even bread is a good idea, too. When possible, build a two week meal plan so you allot what you’ve purchased well. It’s what I’m doing today! I’ll try to share ours tomorrow.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention batteries, flashlights, bottled and candles, too. While they won’t be necessary in a quarantine situation, these essentials are a smart addition during prolonged power outages.
No one loves the idea of being forced to stay at home. However, if the need arises, you’ll save yourself grief and cash through only a bit of preparation. Try not to get swept up into the hype and overbuy. Also? Keep washing those hands thoroughly because it’s a great idea every day, not just in the middle of a potential outbreak.
One last thought: Be a good neighbor. Hoarding can cause others to lack. Let’s manage resources well without going overboard. Personally, I’m using Kroger Clicklist to fill in the gaps right now because I stocked up at ALDI last week. We have plenty to keep us fed for the first week, easy. But I plan on only heading to the store when necessary.
What would you add to the list? Which items did you not need to purchase because you already had plenty?
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