Faced with the increase in extreme climatic events, the French Red Cross encourages citizens to prepare by putting together an emergency bag, which she also calls the “Catakit”.
This survival kit is designed to meet the vital needs of a family for 24 to 48 hours in the event of a crisis : this is an essential precautionary measure in a context where natural disasters are becoming more frequent, like the heavy rains observed in France in recent weeks. The French Red Cross initiative aims to strengthen the resilience of populations in the face of all these environmental challenges.
Cover 5 needs
The contents of the emergency bag must cover five basic needs: hydrate, feed, care for, protect and report. To stay hydrated, it is advisable to include sufficient drinking water. Non-perishable food, such as canned goods, is also crucial for meeting all dietary needs without requiring cooking.
In addition, a first aid kit and additional medications are essential for basic medical care. To protect yourself from bad weather or cold, warm clothing and survival blankets are recommended. Finally, to signal for help, tools such as a whistle or a flashlight are recommended.
Check content regularly
In its press release, the Red Cross emphasizes that this bag must be easily accessible and its contents checked regularly to ensure that the products are not expired. Of course, the composition of the bag must also be adapted to the specific needs of each family, taking into account, for example, children or the elderly.
Beyond individual preparation, the French Red Cross emphasizes the importance of collective preparation in the face of climate disasters. She recommends the training in lifesaving actions and the development of a network of trained volunteers ready to intervene in the event of an emergency. These measures aim to reduce the impact of crises on populations and improve the capacity to respond to extreme events.
The call to prepare an emergency bag should not be seen as alarmist but rather as a pro-active approach which aims to develop a culture of prevention and resilience. In France, only a small percentage of the population currently has a ready-to-use emergency bag.
The Red Cross points out that preparing for crises not only limits the material and human consequences of disasters but also reduces the anxiety linked to these events.
