Survival Hygiene

When a disaster strikes, the most basic amenities, such as running shower water and flushing toilets, may be unavailable for days or weeks. If you are accustomed to showering regularly, and find yourself unable to carry out any function that requires running tap water, Morale can deteriorate quickly. Having the right equipment on hand in advance will ensure that you and your family will be able to have some of those daily comforts, while also making sure that you do not contaminate your environment and make it uninhabitable. Water kits are essential.

Toilets: The first survival hygiene situation to be set up would be the matter of handling bodily wastes. The Honey Bucket (Port-A-Potty) is a crush resistant 5 gallon bucket and has a durable carrying handle with toilet seat and lid. This can serve as a temporary toilet, which will contain fecal matter and urine for the time being. Port-A-Potty chemicals are also 100% biodegradable, and should be used to treat the contents until they can be disposed of properly.

If your situation means travelling from one place to another, there is a Folding Port-A-Potty which features plastic bag liners for disposal, and heavy duty tubular steel legs which can support a person weighing up to 200 pounds.

For your own personal cleanliness, there are a number of solutions in kit form. The Travelers Aid with Personal Hygiene and First Aid can be purchased complete in a carrying bag, and features most items in your bathroom medicine cabinet and first aid kit. There are a number of kits tailored to your circumstances that you may purchase for yourself and your family.

Showering: When stepping into the conventional shower for a rinse-off is out of the question, consider the StanSport Camper's Solar Shower. Used as directed, the sun will heat five gallons of water, which should be for three or four showers. It is complete with a shower head, and can also be used to wash dishes. If water is not readily available, consider Self Heating Wash Cloths. Available in packages of eight, these cloths are suitable for complete body cleanliness.

Good morale is very important in surviving a disaster, as it will fuel your will to live. Being comfortable in your own skin will assist greatly. Ensure that you have the basic necessities on hand in advance as part of your disaster survival planning.