First, there needs to be a clear usage pattern established for those items deemed to be “critical supplies.” Information on increased usage during critical situations in the past, such as infectious outbreaks or infrastructure damage would be extremely useful. Second, determine the time period for which you plan to be without assistance. Third, determine what would need to be kept on hand to accommodate that time frame. This will vary significantly on your environment, especially based on a rural or urban setting, type of disaster, and availability of suppliers. Fourth, make a rational well-reasoned decision, based on your calculations, available.
