When disaster strikes, having a dedicated quarantine room can be a lifesaver. Whether it’s a pandemic, a chemical spill, or just a nasty flu season, a properly set up isolation area can protect your family from harm. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a safe haven within your own home. By following these steps, you’ll be ready to face whatever challenges come your way, keeping your loved ones secure and healthy.
1. Choose the Right Room
Pick a room that’s separate from the main living areas. It should have a window for ventilation and natural light. Ideally, choose a space with its own bathroom or one nearby. A spare bedroom or home office often works well for this purpose. Ensure the room is large enough to comfortably accommodate a person for an extended period, with at least 70 square feet of floor space.
2. Clear Out Unnecessary Items
Remove all non-essential furniture and belongings from the room. This makes cleaning easier and reduces surfaces where germs can hide. Keep only a bed, a small table, and a chair if possible. The fewer items in the room, the better. Consider using plastic storage bins to temporarily store removed items, making it easier to restore the room once the quarantine period ends.
3. Install an Air Purifier
Get a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter. This will help remove airborne particles and pathogens. Place it in the center of the room for maximum effectiveness. Change filters regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Look for a purifier with a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) of at least 300 for rooms up to 500 square feet.
4. Seal Off Vents and Gaps
Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to cover air vents, gaps under doors, and any other openings. This helps prevent contaminated air from spreading to other parts of the house. Be thorough – even small gaps can allow air to pass through. For added protection, consider using weatherstripping around door frames to create an airtight seal.
5. Set Up a Changing Station
Create an area just outside the quarantine room for changing in and out of protective gear. Include a small table or shelf for storing masks, gloves, and sanitizer. This acts as a buffer zone between the quarantine area and the rest of your home. Add a mirror to ensure proper donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE).
6. Stock Up on Cleaning Supplies
Fill a caddy with disinfectant wipes, spray cleaner, paper towels, and trash bags. Keep these supplies in the changing area for easy access. Make sure to have enough to last for at least two weeks of frequent cleaning. Include EPA-registered disinfectants proven effective against a wide range of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.
7. Prepare a First Aid Kit
Assemble a comprehensive first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and over-the-counter medications. Include a thermometer for monitoring symptoms. Store this kit in the quarantine room where it’s easily accessible. Add a pulse oximeter to monitor blood oxygen levels, which can be crucial in respiratory illnesses.
8. Set Up Communication Devices
Provide a charged phone or tablet for the quarantined person to stay in touch with others. Consider a baby monitor or two-way radio for quick communication. This helps maintain social connection while keeping physical distance. Ensure all devices have backup power sources, such as portable chargers or extra batteries.
9. Arrange for Food and Water Storage
Place a mini-fridge and a case of bottled water in the room if possible. If not, set up a cooler that can be restocked daily. This reduces the need for frequent entries into the quarantine space. Include a supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods that meet dietary requirements and preferences.
10. Install a Waste Management System
Put a lined trash can with a lid in the room for disposing of used tissues and other waste. Use biohazard bags if available. Establish a safe procedure for removing and disposing of waste regularly. Consider using a foot-operated trash can to minimize hand contact and reduce the risk of contamination.
11. Create an Entertainment Center
Set up a TV, laptop, or tablet with access to movies, books, and games. Boredom can be a real challenge during quarantine. Providing entertainment options helps maintain mental health and passes the time. Include a variety of activities like puzzles, coloring books, or craft supplies to cater to different interests and promote engagement.
12. Establish a Laundry Protocol
Place a hamper with a washable or disposable liner in the room. Set up a system for safely handling and washing contaminated clothing and bedding. Use hot water and dry on high heat when possible. Consider using dissolvable laundry bags for added safety when transferring potentially contaminated items to the washing machine.
13. Post Important Information
Hang a whiteboard or bulletin board with important phone numbers, medication schedules, and quarantine rules. This keeps vital information visible and easily accessible. Update it regularly as needed. Include a daily checklist for symptom monitoring and basic health tasks to ensure nothing is overlooked.
14. Prepare a “Go Bag”
Pack a bag with essential items like clothes, toiletries, and medications. Keep this near the quarantine room in case of emergency evacuation. Update contents regularly to ensure everything stays fresh and usable. Include copies of important documents such as ID, insurance information, and medical records in a waterproof container.
15. Practice Your Quarantine Plan
Run through your quarantine procedures with your family before they’re needed. This helps identify any weak points in your setup. Make adjustments as necessary to ensure everyone knows what to do when the time comes. Conduct regular drills to maintain readiness and update your plan based on new information or changing circumstances.
50 of the Best Guns Ever Made
Some guns earn their place in history by changing how firearms are designed, others by proving themselves reliable no matter the circumstances. A few achieve iconic status because of their sheer innovation or excellence. The Browning Auto-5 revolutionized autoloaders, the Ruger 10/22 redefined versatility, and the Remington Model 700 became the backbone of American bolt-action rifles. These firearms aren’t ranked in any particular order, but each has earned its way onto this list. Whether you’re here to celebrate timeless craftsmanship or find inspiration for your own collection, this list dives into firearms that left an undeniable mark.
Read More: 50 of the Best Guns Ever Made
23 Crisis Scenarios You Haven’t Planned For But Totally Should
As a seasoned prepper, I’ve seen my fair share of unexpected situations. While most of us have the basics covered, there are some scenarios that often slip under the radar. These aren’t your typical doomsday events, but they could still turn your world upside down if you’re not prepared. I’ve compiled a list of 23 SHTF scenarios that might surprise you. Trust me, after years of homesteading and prepping, I’ve learned it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard.
Read More: 23 Crisis Scenarios You Haven’t Planned For But Totally Should
39 Essentials to Stockpile Beyond the Big Three
When it comes to prepping, most folks focus on the big three: water, food, and weapons. But in my years of experience, I’ve learned that true preparedness goes way beyond these basics. There’s a whole world of items that can make or break your survival situation. I’ve put together a list of 39 often-overlooked but essential preps to get hold of after you’ve taken care of food and water to take care of your immediate survival needs, and weapons to defend your family and property and to hunt. Trust me, you’ll want to add these to your stockpile before it’s too late.
Read More: Be A Preparedness Pro | 39 Essentials to Stockpile Beyond the Big Three
