Some Must Haves

As a Naval wife you will often find yourself handling situations on your own. It is good to be alert and on your toes. So here are a few helpful tips. 

1)      Connectivity

a)      When you move to a new place make sure you first find out which network has maximum connectivity in that area. Then go ahead and book one.

b)      Have a Nokia dual sim phone. It’s just a thousand and odd Rs. You can maintain a constant number wherever you go and a place specific temporary local no. for economy sake. Of course you can have two mobiles. But you may forget to charge one or take both the phones when you go out.  So this is an easier option.

c)       Avail a navy telephone handset first thing when you take over the accommodation. This is the most reliable mode of communication.

2)      Mobility

a)      Learn to drive a car. If not a car, at least have a scooter at your disposal. You cannot rely on getting an auto or using the public transport every time.

b)      If you are in a remote location public transport might simply not be available.

c)       When you have a car you also need to know how to fix a punctured tire, check the oil and of course fill the fuel tank. Yes, these things are best done by men. But we can get by. :)

d)      If you are at a remote location it is brilliant to store extra petrol/diesel, engine oil, distilled water etc.,

3)      Precautions

a)      If you have a small child

-      Stock up medicines, diapers, wet wipes, creams and the whole paraphernalia.

-         Have the pediatricians’ number handy and have a travel buddy.

-         A travel buddy (in this context) is a person who can hold your child when you need to drive to the doc’s office in case your hubby is not available to accompany you.

b)      If hubby is out on a long sailing

-      Stock up everything from dry ration to fresh ration and all that you can think of. (Remember navy ration stops when your hubby sails out. ;))

-         Have the canteen card with you along with the pin number.

-         Have a routine. Waking up a particular time, evening walks and a fixed bed time.

-         Arrange extempore get-togethers. Say you have a few neighbors whose husbands are sailing too, simply call them over for cake and tea. It is FUN. And Navy people are always ready to have fun. (That's something I love about Navy). So you won’t be disturbing anyone.

-         Keep in touch with (or at least have the telephone number of) the Captain’s wife. If you are in trouble she must be the first person to know. And you can rely on her guidance and help.

-         Have an internet connection so you can book tickets easily.

-         Have a local taxi number. This helps in case you need a lift to the train station or airport and you are unable to get a friend to drop you.

As a naval wife you have to be proactive and self sufficient. So learn to always think ten steps ahead. God bless!