Category: Preparedness tips

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General Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips

Reacting instead of Preparing

Why is it that most people need something to happen before they will consider preparedness? It is amazing to me that if there is even the slightest event ie: small earthquake tremor in California, a sudden blackout and the hint of a major weather event and people scramble to purchase the items they need. We see the traffic increase on our site and the phone rings off the hook with people who need/want their preparedness kit NOW!!!

A few days after the event…and things go back to normal. It’s as if people forgot it even happened. Then another thing happens and people go right back to scrambling. Why is it that we don’t heed the lessons from the first situation we were not prepared for an make it a priority to get ourselves better prepared? Why do we feel the need to procrastinate and then rush at the last minute?

Here are a few things I can assure you of:

1. Another event will happen. It may be small or large but you will see another major storm, blackout, fire, earthquake, tornado, etc.

2. You will not be the only person scrambling to purchase what you need.

3. Stores will run out of flashlights, batteries, water, generators and other preparedness related supplies

I have often said that the greatest asset we have in terms of being better prepared is time. If you use the time NOW to at least slowly begin to better prepare…you will be in a much better position later. Small actions will add up.For example: Each time you go to the grocery store…buy one or two extra items you may need in an emergency.

Please add your own thoughts, tips, ideas and strategies here.

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General Preparedness Personal Preparedness Personal Stories Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips

Doomsday Preppers

doomsday-preppers

I have been asked by a number of people lately if shows like Doomsday Preppers have been good for business. I guess the natural reaction of most people is that since there is a TV show about the topic…it has raised awareness and now more people will buy preparedness supplies.

At this point I am not sure if a show like this actually will help to get people better prepared in the long run or if it will turn people off. While I am sure that some people will see a show like this and make a purchase such as long term food storage or a survival kit….I don’t think that in the long run in will move the needle. And….could it actually deter some people?

In talking about preparedness I have always focused on the masses. I want to help make preparedness a mainstream topic and something everyone thinks about. My problem with a show like this is it shows the extremes. It focuses on “preppers”. I believe that the masses will see a show like this and think the people on it are crazy. They will laugh at the level these folks have taken preparedness too and won’t want to associate themselves with them. I think many will simply say….”I can never be like that” and will decide that preparedness is for the extremists.

I am all for extreme preparedness if that is what is important for you. However…I think it is important to show that you do not need to take these type steps (bunkers, years worth of food, weapons training, etc) in order to be better prepared. You can simply become more aware of emergencies in your area, have a discussion/make a plan with your family, take a CPR class and/or buy some basic supplies such as a 72 Hour Kit. These simple steps will make you better prepared.

It is far more likely that you will encounter severe weather, a car accident, a house fire, flash flood, blackout, injured person, etc than a world devastating volcano or an earthquake that wipes out most of societies infrastructure.

There are levels of preparedness for everyone….start somewhere and build from there. You will be glad you did.

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First Aid General Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips Wilderness

Hiking/Outdoor Preparedness

hiking-preparedness

Here are some tips submitted to us by one of our customers who often writes about preparedness. He was in the military and is an outdoor enthusiast.

Being prepared helps alleviate panic as does, training and practice. Practice techniques; make every movement a natural one. Your hands will know what to do until your mind catches up. Muscle memory is repetitive actions without thought. Practice is the only way to achieve this. You must be mentally prepared. You must understand you did not cause the disaster, but your actions going forward are critical to you and your family’s survival. You should practice any techniques described below before a disaster strikes. Use your own judgment, and verify every piece of equipment, tool or technique. Do not stake your life on anyone else’s word. As the saying goes in the military, never let someone else load your weapon or pack your parachute. Survival is up to you.

Clean Water Is the First Priority You Cannot Survive Without It

Water weighs roughly 8.5 pounds per gallon. This means you will not be carrying much in your backpack. You must learn how to collect and make water safe to drink. Boiling is the preferred method. Filter sediments from the water before boiling. You can use a coffee filter, cheesecloth or even a tee shirt. It must rapid boil for three minutes. Use a lid if you have one to collect the condensation caused by the steam. Drain the water from the lid periodically and save for drinking. Boiling removes the oxygen from the water, so once it has cooled shake or stir it well. Note the bubbles; these collect dissolved oxygen from the air. Dissolved oxygen helps control bacteria growth in the water.

Rainwater is safe to drink if it is not runoff, for example, from a roof, sidewalk or roadway. However, collect it and boil it or purify it using household unscented bleach or tincture of iodine. Use unscented Clorox bleach. Eight drops of bleach per gallon is the recommended ratio to kill the bacteria. Boiling or purifying water will not remove harmful chemicals or radiation. Iodine and bleach are the main ingredients in most purification tablets or drops. Tincture of iodine kills bacteria in water as well. Sixteen drops of iodine per gallon is the recommended ratio. Use two percent liquid iodine. Use these methods carefully, and only if boiling and rain collection is not possible. The water must set for an hour before drinking if it is purified using iodine or bleach. It must set longer if it is cool, below 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Collect rainwater by opening an umbrella and turning it upside down. The water will channel to the center. Drain carefully. Let it rain for about 30 minutes before you begin collecting. This washes smog, pollen and any other airborne contaminates out of the air. You can collect rainwater by using clean plastic or your rain gear, as well.

You may be out in the wilderness and may have to collect water where there does not appear to be any. You can ever do this in your own backyard. Scoop out a shallow depression. Your pack should contain plastic or a poncho. Place the plastic over the hole and secure it with stones along the side. Place a small stone in the center to create a depression. Radiant heat will sweat the moisture from the ground and it will collect on the plastic. You can also place some green foliage in the depression, as well. Plants have moisture in them and the sun will sweat the moisture from them. The water will then run toward the center. It is safe to drink because it is essentially distilled by the sun. Collect morning dew using the plastic. Drape it over some low bushes and create small depressions for the dew to collect.

Never drink water from a still pool. Drink or collect water from a fast moving stream, or find seepage from an underground spring. Nature is one of the best at purifying water. Bacteria grows in stagnate pools. Moving water collects dissolved oxygen. Typically, it will not contain as much bacteria. Water that seeps from underground has been filtered and is generally safe to drink. However, do not drink it if it has collected on the ground or in rock crevices. Drink directly from the source.

  • Have a First Kit in Everyone’s Pack
  • Alcohol Wipes
  • Compression Bandages
  • Aspirin
  • Vitamin C Tablets. (You Can Also Add Vitamin C Tablets To Boiled Or Purified water To Improve Its taste)
  • Scissors
  • Bandages
  • Two Percent Liquid Tincture Of Iodine
  • Eye Dropper

Ensure everyone carries a first aid kit. The rule of thumb is to use the injured person’s kit to treat them. This ensures there is a kit for you if you are injured. Follow this rule because it is important. Other first aid items you should have are splints for broken bones, heavy surgical tape, rubbing alcohol and hot and cold packs.

Any wounds must be treated quickly. Stop the blood flow using a compression bandage. Once the flow is stopped, it must be cleaned to prevent infections. Iodine and alcohol are the best ways to kill bacteria around the wound. Bandage the wound well. When splinting broken bones you must allow for swelling. Besides the loss of blood, infection is the main concern with any open wound.

The list of things a person may need could fill a book. However, some things should be in everyone’s pack. The list is by no means comprehensive. Use your own judgment but begin assembling items now.

  • All Purpose Knife With Needle Nose Pliers Cutting Blade and Various Other Handy Items
  • Small Sheet Of Plastic
  • Compass
  • Magnesium Stick And Flint To Start Fires
  • Rain Gear
  • Needle And Thread Include Heavy Needles Similar To The Ones That Can Thread Leather
  • Heavy Fish Line On  A Spool
  • Coffee Filters Cheese Cloth Or Some Other Suitable Material To Filter Water With
  • Small Folding Shovel
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General Preparedness Personal Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips Uncategorized

Travel Disasters and Situational Awareness

The news lately has focused heavily on the cruise ship disaster involving the Costa Concordia off the coast of Italy.

Several interesting points come to mind on first glance at this mishap. First, when were passengers given a safety briefing? Some sources say they had one already and others say they were not due their first one for several hours. Also, we know the Captain abandoned ship and we also hear reports that many of the crew were not aiding passengers in distress. Next, with the ship not completely sinking and with being so close to shore, how could anyone have actually died? (Though with a passenger load in excess of 4,000 people, the number of deaths was relatively very low.)

The point of today’s post is not to criticize what did or did not happen aboard the Costa Concordia (especially since we weren’t there), but to focus on things to help protect you and yours if you find yourself in an emergency situation whether aboard ship, an aircraft, a train, or even in a public building.

The key is “Situational Awareness” which means you’re aware of where you are, what’s going on around you, what might happen, and how you might react. Whenever you’re in a new place, whether it’s aboard a ship, aircraft, train, or even in a new building, you should know your surroundings, the threats you may face, the ways in which you might learn of an emergency, and the assets around you.

Here are a few thoughts:

1. Know the layout of where you are. In a public building for the first time? Look at the fire escape plan which should be posted near elevators or stairs. (Hint, if the risk of an event is high, take a picture of the floor plan with your phone.) How many doors are between you and an exit? Could you find the exit in heavy smoke by counting doors as you crawled along the floor to safety? How about a plane? (Read the info pamphlet about the plane you’re in and pay attention during the safety briefing.) Where is the closest exit (remember, it may be behind you) and how many seats are there between you and the exit? Aboard ship? Attend any safety briefing, not just the mandatory ones. Which passageway do you take to reach the lifeboats from your room? From the galley? From the entertainment areas?

2. Learn to identify safety personnel. Aboard an aircraft it’s easy; they’re your flight attendants. What about aboard ship? Not all crew are trained to handle guest safety. Some are assigned specific ship protection duties in a crisis. Can you tell the difference? What about in a building? Who’s with security and how do you identify them? Do you know the location of the security office or posts? How about aboard a train?

3. Note the location of safety equipment. Where are the fire extinguishers? How about AEDs (Automatic Electric Defibrillators), fire hoses, first aid kits, fire alarm switches, emergency call boxes, flotation devices, emergency brake pulls, attendant service buttons, etc.? How many of these do you know how to operate should you be able to locate them? And, always remember that your cell phone can act as your emergency flashlight.

4. Talk with family members about what to do should an emergency occur. How many in your family know first aid or CPR? Do you plan meeting times or rendezvous points when at sporting events or the mall where you might separate for a bit? Note: When working on steps 1 through 3 above, make sure you involve others you’re with or teach them to do the same steps.

5. Maintain your health and physical capabilities as best you can. Getting out of a sinking ship, a wrecked train, crashed plane, or burning building are stressful and physically demanding. The healthier you are, the safer you are, and the more you’re able to help others.

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Disaster Kits Earthquake Preparedness Fire Preparedness/Safety First Aid Flood Preparedness Food and Water General Preparedness Hurricane Preparedness Personal Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips Survival Kits Tornado Preparedness

Preparedness Procrastination

Every year we see different types of disasters happen across the United States and the rest of the world. Earthquake, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Floods, Fires, Acts of Terror and Blackouts just to name a few. We are also constantly reminded of the message: Get a Kit, Make a Plan, Be Informed. So the question is…If disasters happen and we know the basic things we can do to be better prepared…why do most people wait until the last minute? Why are there massive lines at retail stores for food, water, flashlights, batteries and other types of survival gear?

As the owner of a survival kit and preparedness supply company…I get panicked calls and email asking if people can pick up kits immediately or if I can ship overnight. You would like that at some point people would all stop procrastinating and start to better prepare. If every day or week you take one simple step to being better prepared…in very little time…you would find yourself much better off than where you are  today. Everything doesn’t have to be done now and it certainly isn’t about panic. Just start…take action. I believe that one you do…you will realize that it isn’t much work and you will fell better knowing you have taken steps to make yourself and your family safer. Oh..and by the way….if you do take the first step…while you’re at it…encourage a family member or friend to do the same.

Here are some simple suggestions:

*Learn what sort of emergencies/disasters happen in your area. Learn what they do and how they can affect you. Will they cause blackouts, high winds, etc.

*Check what supplies you have in house and get some simple items every time you are out shopping: flashlights, batteries, emergency food that won’t spoil, water.

*Take to your family about what you would do “if” something happened. Where would you go? What might happen? Where the supplies are. How you would communicate.

*Learn basic first aid and CPR. It can come in happen at anytime and not just during major events

Please let us know if you have other steps you recommend. The more we share and encourage others…the better off we will all be.

Be well and stay safe,

Paul

1800prepare.com

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Emergency Responders General Preparedness Personal Preparedness Personal Stories Preparedness tips

Auto Guardian

As the owner of a preparedness kit/supply company and a volunteer firefighter….emergencies seem to find me (or maybe I am just paying more attention and looking for them). As such, I tried to be as prepared as I can be so I can help if I run into a situation. In my personal vehicle…on top of my firefighting turnout gear I also keep an auto survival kit, a regular survival kit, an auto guardian rescue flashlight and assorted other supplies. There have been numerous times where I have used the items that I carry both for my own problems and to assist others.

Last week in our town we had 3 different fire department calls at once. I was responding to one of the calls when I came upon a small car accident. The accident involved 3 cars but luckily no one was injured. One of the vehicles sustained damaged and their was debris in the road. The accident occurred right near an intersection so there was also the risk that someone rounding the corner would hit the vehicles already involved. I knew that there were other first responders on their way to the alarm call and I realized that this accident could prove a hazard to them as well.

The first thing I did was pull my car up ahead of the accident to a safe spot on the shoulder of the road. (If you are going to stop and help  at an accident…make sure you don’t become a victim. Park in a safe place and always be aware as other motorists as they tend to tunnel vision on the accident and may hit you). I then called our dispatch to notify them so they could alert the other responders. I quickly checked on the people involved to make sure they were alright. I then took my auto guardian tool which is a 5 in 1 device and placed it in the road about 20 feet behind the accident. I turned on the flashlight L.E.D. lights so oncoming traffic would see the accident. This item works great as a replacement to a road flare.

After I set down the auto guardian…I quickly swept the debris out of the roadway so it wouldn’t affect other cars, jumped back into my car and headed to assist at the call I was on my way too. Hopefully….when the accident was cleared..someone threw my auto guardian into their car so they could have it for themselves.

It never ceases to amaze me how many times I actually use my own products. Whether its supplies from a first aid kit or just a flashlight….I like knowing that I can both take care of myself a little better…and also assist others who may be in need.

If you have stopped to help someone in trouble…please share your story here.

Thanks and stay safe

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Preparedness tips Tornado Preparedness

Tornado Preparedness

tornadoThe biggest threat from a tornado is its incredible winds. Here is an acronym to help you remember same basic things you can do to prepare and protect yourself.

W.I.N.D.S.

Warnings – Pay attention to watches and warnings, and be sure to warn others. Get people and pets inside.

Interior – Prep the interior of your home by closing windows, and exterior and interior doors.

Now – Don’t waste time. Get to safety now. Don’t watch the storm, and don’t try to videotape the tornado.

Duck – Get in your safe room and get down. Even in the safe room duck under heavy items and cover yourself.

Signal – Signal for help if you are in any way injured or if your area sustained damages.

This great tip was taken from 1-800-prepare.com adviser Paul Purcell’s book, Disaster Prep 101. For more great information you can purchase a copy of this book at our store at www.1800prepare.com

And as always…remember….get a preparedness kit, make a plan, be informed

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General Preparedness Hurricane Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips

Some things to consider as we approach hurricane season

hurricane prepareHere is a quick list of just a few of the things you should consider as we start hurricane season.

1. Do you have the right insurance policies in place for your home and business

2. Do you have a family preparedness plan

3. Do you have a weather radio

4. Do you know at least 2 evacuation routes from your home

5. Do you have a disaster kit and/or survival gear

6. Do you have back up copies of all your important documents

7. Do you have at least a basic home inventory of what you own

8. Do you have a communication plan in place

9. Do you know where to go in your home/office if a hurricane is about to strike

If you have other tips…please add them. Also please check out http://www.hurricanecenter.com

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General Preparedness Personal Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips

Why do we need disasters to prepare

empty shelvesI am always amazed at how many people in this country raced to get preparedness kits and supplies right after a disaster strikes somewhere. Why is it that we have to wait and see mass devastation before we will take some basic simple steps to prepare ourselves for the unexpected. If more people would just take a little time each day to increase their level of preparedness….we would all be much better off. Make it part of your daily or weekly routine. Don’t think of it as a chore. Make it fun, enjoy the process and the learning. And know….that each step you take makes you just a little bit safer. And while you are at it….encourage your friends, neighbors and community to do it with you.

Here are some simple things you can do that don’t require purchasing anything. If you can think of other ideas…please comment here.

1. Learn CPR
2. Learn basic first aid
3. Learn what types of disasters can happen where you live
4. Stop by your local firehouse and meet the firefighters, learn what they do and see what they can teach you
5. Drive around you neighborhood and make sure you have at least 2 routes out of town in case you have to evacuate
6. Practice fire alarm drills in your home with your family. Learn what to do, multiple ways out of your home and where you will meet.
7. Take an inventory of your valuables. You can write them down, take pictures, add receipts, etc. Store this info in more than one safe place.
8. Remove hazards around your home: old trees/branches that could fall on your house, over-used electrical outlets, etc.
9. Talk about recent disasters around the work and discuss with your family what you might do
10. Organize meeting points both around your town and at a relocation site so you can quickly reconnect with family members
11. Make a communication plan
12. Talk to your neighbors and learn what they have done and/or can do in an emergency.

This is just a partial list. Please share with us your thoughts.

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General Preparedness Personal Preparedness Preparedness Planning Preparedness tips

How well do you know where you live or work

How long have you lived in the same house or worked in the same office? If you are like me…the answer to both of those is…a long time. I have been in every room in my house and my office too many times to count. So…on the surface…it would seem I could get around those places blindfolded…but could I? And could you do it where you live or work?

In an emergency or disaster you may find yourself without the ability to see. This could be caused by blackout, smoke conditions or possibly debris or injury to your eyes. If you couldn’t see…would you know where the nearest exit is? Would you be able to get to a fire extinguisher? A first aid kit? Or your loved one in another room calling out for help?

Every once in awhile…try moving through your home or office blindfolded. This can be a fun activity to do with your family while discussing disaster preparedness planning. Take turns so you can watch out for each other and make sure you are safe. Have someone lead you into one room and then give you another room or closet to get to.

Some tips:

*Stay low…it might be useful to crawl. This will help prevent falls and possible head injuries. In a fire…this will mostly likely be your only option.

*Keep one hand on a wall. This will help you stay oriented.

*Trying to recognize familiar things: A carpeted or tile floor, a table or couch. This will help give you reference.

*Keep one hand out in front. This will protect you from banging into things

This is just one activity that you can do as part of an overall preparedness plan. Make it fun. Engage the whole family. Taking a few minutes now to prepare for later can make all the difference.