How Do You Get Food in Emergency?

When disaster strikes, access to food becomes challenging. The shelves in grocery stores might be empty. Transportation routes may become obstructed, and supply chains may fail.

In such situations, it’s crucial to know how to get food quickly and safely. It can mean the difference between peace and pandemonium.

So, how do you get food in emergency situations? This guide gives you useful advice on how to stay fed during tough times.

Tip #1: Understand How Important It Is to Be Ready

Experts say families should have at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food on hand. If you live in a region that’s likely to have disasters, have enough supplies for two to four weeks. Planning ensures you won’t have to rely only on outside help when conditions worsen.

Tip # 2: Use What You Have

In the first 24 to 48 hours of an emergency, your immediate goal should be to use perishable food first. If you have access to a refrigerator or cooler, consume items that may spoil soon. This means any fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy.

Eat from your fridge first, then move to your freezer. Frozen items can last up to 48 hours without power if the door stays closed. Use your pantry staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods next.

Instead of eating big meals, save resources by arranging modest, balanced meals. By using what’s already available, you can extend your food supply.

Tip # 3: Find Alternative Food Sources During Emergencies

Did your stored food run out? Are the stores in your area closed or inaccessible? Then you’ll need to look for alternative sources.

• Go to your local relief centers and food banks. In major crises, organizations like the Red Cross distribute food and water. Local churches also help affected residents. Keep a list of local emergency shelters and aid centers in your emergency kit for reference.
• Embrace community support and bartering. Neighbors helping neighbors can save lives during an emergency. Bartering – exchanging supplies – can help everyone get what they need. Try to build relationships in your community. It will help you get more support when you need it most.
• Try foraging for edible plants. You can do this if you live near wooded or rural areas. Look for dandelions, wild berries, or nuts. But you should never eat anything you cannot identify. Research local wild edibles beforehand. You can also keep a small field guide in your emergency kit.
• Go hunting or fishing. If you live near lakes or forests, it’s great to know how to fish and trap. These can help supplement your emergency food supply. Even simple tools like fishing lines or snares can make a difference in emergencies.
• Grow your own food. A small home garden is an invaluable food source. Potatoes, beans, and leafy greens are some of the toughest vegetables. They are also easy to grow, even in small areas.

Tip #4: Keep Food on Hand for Emergencies

If you store emergency food properly, it will last longer and be safe to eat. You should think about some basic steps.

One, make sure you have non-perishable foods on hand. Stock up on items like canned beans, tuna, rice, and oats.

Keep food in cool, dry, and dark places. It’s best to keep them at temperatures below 70°F (21°C). Put things in containers that can’t let air in. This will keep bugs and moisture away from them.

You should also change your stock around. Use things that are older first, then get new ones to replace them. Don’t forget to put expiration dates on things so you can easily keep track of them.

Tip 5: Think of How to Cook Food Without Electricity

When the electricity goes out, cooking gets hard. But there are other ways to make meals that are safe and healthy. Portable camping stoves and propane barbecues are both terrific choices. But be sure to use them outside so they can breathe. You can also use charcoal grills and fire pits, provided you have a safe place to do so.

Put disposable utensils, paper plates, and manual can openers in your emergency kit. This way, you won’t have to rely on water or electricity. If you can’t cook, look for things that are already ready to eat. Some great options are canned fruits, protein bars, or peanut butter.

Before You Go

Esther Single Mothers Outreach, Inc. supports single mothers facing life’s toughest challenges. Our mission is to provide critical resources to help every mother keep her family safe. Join us in making a difference. Email us or call (407) 331-6436.