PROJECT 23

72 HOUR KIT TEST

This project could well be a part of project 22, however, in my experience one usually forgets about testing a kit when they’re focused on building one. Life always interferes and the testing phase always is subject to getting around to it.

By separating the two, I hope that you make the time needed to have a real test of your kit. I am always amazed at how much you learn about your needs when you get around to testing your plans.

Material:

•   Family 72 hour kits

Procedure:

1.     Pick a weekend that the family can commit to testing the kits. Tell friends and family you will be unavailable for the weekend.

2.     If possible, turn off water and power at breaker/water main—otherwise, unplug all devices and commit to not using any utilities.

3.     Attempt to last a weekend using only the items in your kits. If you “cheat,” make a list of items needed that were not in your kits so you can add them later.

4.     It is important that you approach this as a family activity and try to make it as fun as possible.

5.     After the experiment is over, take time (after hot showers and a good meal) to have a family discussion of what went well, and what would be needed to make the situation better. Do not allow the family talk to point out personal failings or problems—it should be focused on items and procedures that would make the process easier not events that went wrong.

6.     Take what you learned, apply it, and have another test weekend a few months later. After 2 or 3 of these events, you will be surprised at how much easier they become.

Lessons Learned:

The “after action” discussion will shed a lot of light on what is nice and what is needed. Tests like this also show the value of teamwork and family, as well as build confidence.