For many years, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have counseled members to prepare to care for themselves and their families in times of need. This includes, to the extent that local laws and personal circumstances allow, storing and saving a one year supply of food.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's disaster information Web page, there are six basics you should stock in your home: water, food, tools, first aid supplies, clothing, bedding and sanitation supplies. FEMA advises to keep emergency kits in designated places at home and the workplace. FEMA also advises to keep an emergency kit in the car.

"It is very important to be prepared for natural disasters," said Kelly Hansen, a sophomore from Santa Barbara, Calif., majoring in public health. "I always keep extra water and canned foods so I am prepared. My parents have food storage at home. My ward also has food storage."

Brandi Brame, a senior from St. Helens, Ore., majoring in nursing, said growing up her mom always bought food in bulk when it was on sale.

"I've followed my mom's example and stocked up on basics like rice and canned food," Brame said. "I keep water and blankets in my car in case of an emergency. I know I could do more, but it feels good to know I have the basics in case of an emergency."

Local grocery stores, like Maceys, have what they call an emergency alcove. Some of the products found in this area include freeze-dried fruits and vegetables, powdered milk, 15-gallon water storage drums, canned goods, rice, grain, beef, chicken, grain mills and 72-hour kits.

Rachel May Jones, a manager at Maceys, said Maceys has a preparedness sale in August, and twice a year, in September and April, they organize a case lot sale. Some of the items include canned goods, pastas, water and other essential food storage products.

"Maceys is a family store," Jones said. "It's just been a priority for us to make sure people have products for their food storage."

Organizing food storage can be difficult for students. Having essential products at home is important.

"I really don't have much food at home," said Patrick Harding, a junior from Orem, majoring in anthropology. "I guess in case of an emergency I'll just go to my mom's house, she has plenty of food in our storage. Our family has enough food storage that would last us at least a year."



Copyright Brigham Young University 11 Nov 2008