When you live in a country that experiences only two types of weather conditions, one would expect that the preparations for imposing calamities would be fairly straightforward—but that’s not the case at all. Despite the country not being the biggest contributor to total global carbon emissions, the Philippines often finds itself at the receiving end of the worst effects of the climate crisis, such as in the recent super typhoon Carina that left one million locals affected by its exit, as per the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, reported by PhilStar.
As we are left with the remnants of the typhoon, we can’t help but think: How should one prepare for a calamity as big as this if it happens again? While we hope that history does not repeat itself, we can also learn from it to make sure we’re ready to go for the next one.
Think Like A Prepper, Get A Go Bag
Many of us may have heard about a ‘go bag’ from disaster movies, the news, or emergency management seminars at school or work. And while most of us have been advised to prepare one, it’s understandable if it’s something we’ve set aside for personal reasons. This time around, we might want to put that back on our list of priorities as we’re currently dealing with a climate crisis—as typhoon Carina, quite frankly, put all of us in shock. That being said, what are the essentials to put in a go bag?
First aid kit
When you’re fixing this part of your bag, make sure anything that is filed under medical care goes in this kit. Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas shares what’s on her list of must-haves for emergencies as such. First, you will need a handful of medications to treat any possible sickness, such as pain relievers and fever reducers like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and mefenamic acid. For diarrhea, loperamide or oral rehydration salts would be your safest option, while antacids are for those with acid reflux or an upset stomach. Antihistamines for allergies, probiotics like Erceflora, and decongestant medicines that can help with relieving nasal congestion are also great additions to your kit. If you have maintenance pills, don’t forget to throw them in as well.
The second part of your first aid kit would be your supplies for wounds, which would be your sterile gauze, adhesive bandages, and tapes in various sizes, cotton balls and swabs, alcohol, gloves, scissors, tweezers, or forceps. We understand that seeing all of those things listed down may seem daunting, but a few first aid lessons on YouTube might help you go through the motions so you won’t feel too lost when you’re using the supplies.
Lastly, Dr. Robredo-Vitas also mentioned a few items that may already have stocked at home, so if you have an extra pack of face masks, a spare thermometer, ice packs and warm compresses, multivitamins (Berocca is more than enough), antibiotic cream or ointment, petroleum jelly or any barrier creams, saline eye drops for those who are prone to eye irritations, mosquito repellent sprays or lotions for protection against blood-borne diseases—then squeeze them in the kit, too.
Safety kit
Compared to the first aid kit, this one is packed specifically for protection. You’ll need a flashlight just in case the power supply goes out, a whistle to grab someone’s attention, a raincoat for extra layers, and an insect repellent so you don’t get any other diseases during and after the storm.
Essentials kit
Much like when you’re traveling, you’ll need a kit for all the necessities. A microfiber towel will be your best option because it dries quickly; minis of shampoo and conditioner will be enough for a week; a bar of soap is definitely more than enough; your compact toothbrush and toothpaste; as well as sanitary pads, just in case Aunt Flow decides to pay a visit. Also consider including a bottle of water, ready-to-eat food, a power bank and wire, a blanket, and an extra set of clothes because you never know how long the recovery period can last. In case of a flood, you might also want to pack all your important documents and IDs in a waterproof bag or envelope.
A Few Gentle Reminders
Your go bag shouldn’t be stashed away in the deepest corner of your house because you won’t have the time to dig through it when the time comes (although, hopefully, you won’t ever need it!). With the right amount of weather forecasting on your end, you’ll want to place it near the exit of your house for easy access. On top of that, double-check the expiration dates because they’ll be in your bag for months, or schedule to replenish them every so often.
Act Now
For those looking to support initiatives that benefit those affected by the typhoon, a few local beauty brands, such as GRWM, Vitamin Balm and Strokes Beauty Lab, have announced that their sales will be donated to their chosen relief operations. Apart from that, there are other options available, such as clean water donations and relief goods distributions that are being done across the metro, all of which are ready for contributions from everyone. On behalf of the team behind The Beauty Edit, we hope and pray that everyone is safe and that you have received the utmost care from the volunteers.
