If a tornado tears through your town or the waters start to rise, you might be waiting days or even weeks for rescue. Many natural disasters also make roads impassable and force stores to close, so having a store of emergency food rations could save your family’s lives. Below are a few supplies you should always keep in the pantry.

Food Supplies You Should Always Have on Hand for Emergencies

1. Freeze-Dried Food

Freeze-drying food preserves many of the nutrients that dehydration and other preservation methods destroy. Stocking up on freeze-dried fruits, meats, and vegetables will help ensure your family has access to a healthy diet until the power returns or help arrives.

2. Grains

Rice, cornmeal, and other grains usually last for years if they’re properly stored. Quinoa is another smart emergency food for disaster preparedness since it provides significantly more protein than other grains.

3. Canned Food

When stored properly, canned food lasts for years and can be prepared with a camp stove or eaten straight from the can. Tuna and beans are excellent sources of protein, and canned carrots and peas provide other vital nutrients.

4. Water

In addition to disabling your power and ruining roads, severe disasters can also contaminate the municipal water supply. Plus, private wells won’t operate without electricity. When putting together your emergency rations, the CDC recommends storing at least one gallon of water for each person and pet per day. Also, consider investing in water filters, purifying tablets, or other tools for cleaning contaminated water.

Being prepared for the worst can help your family get through a disaster safely. R & S Rare Coins in Cabool, MO, offers a wide range of freeze-dried emergency food and helpful staff who will help you choose the top supplies for your home. Follow their Facebook for more tips and advice, explore their services online, call (417) 962-5213 with any questions, and stop by the store to start preparing today.