January 3, 2013
Six and a half years ago I moved to California from New York City. Since that time I have experienced several earthquakes. Let me just say for a New Yorker they were interesting to say the least, and certainly got my attention. These “small” 4.0 – 4.4 earthquakes to Californians are just minor little rumblings that make for interesting conversations and really nothing more. Sometimes, they even provide for a good laugh when seeing a newly transplanted East Coaster such as myself experiencing it for the first time. Such an event happened with me and my wife who is a CA native.
During my lifetime in NYC I experienced two (that I am aware of) small earthquakes of about 2.0 – barely felt by most. As a new Californian it was interesting to me, as it was for many on the West Coast to see the reactions to the recent East Cost Earthquake. One that caused little damage, but contributed to workforce disruptions in many areas as people fled into the streets.
Now as I sit here today I am pondering a number of things about earthquakes and preparedness. The first is that I live in so called “Earthquake Country” here in the Bay Area, or is that the entire State of CA? Then again, it could be that “Earthquake Country” is the entire West Coast. The truth is we all live in Earthquake Country. Let me explain.
There is not a single State in the U.S. that has never had or experienced an earthquake. Nor is there a State that can never have an earthquake again. True, some areas are less impacted by these earthquakes. Take my former home State of New York for example. Though NYC has had very few earthquakes, NYS has several every day. These earthquakes tend to occur in areas that are either unpopulated or have very small populations.
Then we have the New Madrid fault that is perhaps the one fault that can impact the largest portion of the U.S. if a significant earthquake were to occur in the region. In fact if a significant earthquake were to occur in this region the impact could be more widespread and damaging than a major earthquake in a place like the San Francisco Bay Area. Why? Because cities such as St. Louis, Memphis, Nashville that are in the region do not have the same building standards to withstand such an impact.
Another surprising thing I learned is that not everyone who lives out here in CA is really prepared for when the “Big One” hits. Actually in reality, very few are truly prepared and myths about CA and earthquakes impact disaster preparedness even here. Let me provide an example for you how one of these myths can cause improper preparedness.
Myth: We live in Sunny California, where it never rains and is always warm and sunny. Well, this could not be further from the truth. Sure – it’s plenty warm and sunny in the summer months, especially where I live but it does get cold. Just last night it was in the low temperature was in the high 20’s and the high’s have lately been in the low 50’s or high 40’s. Now, this is not exactly in the teens, or 20 below zero like it can get in some areas of the country but it is below freezing and feels cold. If you were without a coat, jacket, blanket or other warm gear or heat source in your preparedness or earthquake kit you could be in trouble during the colder months.
In fact during the summer months when it gets very hot during the day the, it is not uncommon for the temperature to drop about 30 degrees at night. A change in temperatures such as this can actually cause a person to suffer from hypothermia even during the summer. Another part of this myth is that it doesn’t rain. In fact I even had someone tell me once, sure we have earthquakes, but at least when it does happen it will be dry since we hardly get rain.
To this I say not so fast. In fact as I write this, we are in the rainy season where it is not uncommon for it to rain for long periods of time. In fact last year, I think it rained everyday for a month straight. Add in the cold, wind, and an earthquake and the impact could be much more severe as people are exposed to the elements. If this happened certainly more people would succumb to the weather exposure than the actual earthquake.
In closing I ask that you reevaluate how you prepare for likely calamities in your home community – add more or additional supplies to keep you warm and dry. Consider the impact of a worse case disaster in terrible weather. And I want to remind you that we all live in earthquake country, not just those of us living on the West Coast in Sunny CA.
]]>Some of these benefits include having access to food and water, as most survival kits contain beverages and/or food. Furthermore, being prepared for emergencies reduces anxiety, stress and panic when one is finally faced with a real emergency. More importantly, in some cases being prepared can mean the difference between coming out of the emergency safe or not coming out of it at all.
People often wonder how they can prepare for an emergency scenario. The truth is it's easier than many people think. With that said, below is how to prepare:
The very first thing people need to do is be informed, especially when it comes to current events. Paying close attention to current events is a good way to gather an idea of what the future might look like. For example, if hurricanes and tornadoes have been hitting a specific area more frequently than in the past, the chances are it will only get worse. In turn, the damage will likely become more severe.
Being informed also means doing your research on what you'll need most in the event of an emergency. This includes what foods are best to have during an emergency, types of drinks available and things of that nature. Let's not forget to mention it is important to research what types of first-aid kits and items you'll need or may need.
The good news is there are so many ways to be informed, so take advantage of all the resources. This includes using the internet, reading daily newspapers and using various apps. The more resources one uses, the more informed they'll be.
Making a plan is a must, and this plan should include where a person will take shelter in an emergency situation. The shelter should be adequate and should provide protection from various things such as bad weather. The shelter should also have a way of being locked and secure because this will keep potential burglars and unwanted guests from trying to gain entry to it. Other stuff that should be in the plan includes meeting points, an evacuation route and how pets (if applicable) be protected or where pets will be moved to.
Here's a tip, make a rough draft of a list of things that the plan may include. Then narrow down the list before going through with creating the plan. Just jot down anything you can think of, and then go back to add and subtract from the list.
When faced with any emergency, timing is of the utmost important. The plan should be effective, straightforward, easy and fast to execute. The goal is to have a plan that takes no more than a few minutes to execute because when disaster strikes, then seconds matter.
An emergency kit is exactly what it sounds like, a kit that is designed to be used during an emergency. There are many types of kits you can build, such as earthquake emergency kits, hurricane kits, food kits and kits that are designed to help you survive if you're stranded in the wilderness. These are only a handful of examples of the types of kits that can be built.
What you should do is build a basic kit that consists of food, water, clothing and first-aid items. Small tools should be included in the kit, such as a compact flashlight, a small knife and things of that nature. Such tools can come in handy in just about any kind of emergency scenario.
Also, include a form of shelter in the kit. This can be a makeshift tent, such as a sheet that can quickly transform into a tent. A hammock can also be used as a form of shelter.
Finally, test out the plan you created. In fact, test it out a few times and make as many tweaks to your plan as necessary. Set a timer each time you carry out the plan because the faster the plan is executed, the better off you'll be.
If the plan reveals that the kit that is built isn't sufficient enough, then add to the kit or build several emergency kits. Some people have several kits and they store them in different places. This increases the chances of having access to an emergency kit if a disaster ever strikes.
When it comes to preparing for an emergency scenario, it is important to be as informed as possible, making a plan, building an emergency kit and then testing out your plan. The more prepared you are, the better your chances of coming out safe and on top are. Not only that, being prepared means you'll be confident if you ever find yourself facing a disaster, regardless if it's man-made or natural.
It's a good idea to order products that can be used for emergency kits. The company 1800Prepare has a wide range of emergency kits, survival kits and other products to help you prepare for emergencies. See what they have to offer and start building your emergency kit today. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry, and this is why everyone should be prepared.
]]>Circumstances such as getting a flat tire, drained battery, running out of gas, getting stuck in mud or snow, being involved in a collision, or your car breaking down are just but a few of the scenarios that can leave you vulnerable and feeling helpless while out on the road. However, with the right items and tools, you can make an emergency situation less stressful. Fortunately, this article takes a look at the key items you should keep in your car in case of an emergency.
If you are looking to invest in some quality emergency car supplies, 1800 Prepare is here for you. 1800 Prepare deals with all kinds of emergency car supplies that come safely packaged in a durable auto bag. Regardless of what your requirements are, you will find an auto emergency kit that suits your needs and budget.
Below are the key items that you should always have in your car in case of an emergency.
If you accidentally leave your lights on for an extended period of time or fail to properly maintain your car, there is a high risk of your battery draining out on you. This is why it is always important to have jumper cables in your car. At some point in time, you will have to deal with a dead battery or be asked to help out another motorist. Having jumper cables will sure come in handy.
Key things to note here is that:
If there is one thing that you should always be prepared for is a flat tire. This is perhaps the most common issue faced by drivers. In case you get a flat tire, you need the right tire-changing gear to get the job done. First of all, you obviously need a spare tire in good condition, which is why it is always important to get a flat tire repaired as soon as possible after it has been removed. Next, you need to ensure that you have a car jack that can support the weight of the car when replacing the wheel. You should also have a tire iron to help you work with the tire.
It will be essential to keep yourself warm in case you are forced to spend the night in your car. This is especially so during winter or in colder climates. A warm blanket or sleeping bag will be very useful in such situations. It is also prudent to have a sleeping bag or blanket for each seat as you may find yourself stranded with company. A blanket can also be very beneficial when dealing with certain medical emergencies.
The last thing you want to deal with when stranded for a long period of time is hunger and dehydration. While you can survive longer without, you can only survive a few days without water. However, you still need enough food to boost your energy as you'll need it. Make a habit of keeping non-perishable foods and at least one gallon of clean drinking water in your car. Carry more water if you are going on a long trip, especially in hot climates, or if you are travelling with others. Ensure that there is enough food and water for everyone travelling with you.
1800 Prepare's Ultimate Auto Kit comes with food and water that has a 5-year shelf life.
Your best chances of getting help when facing an emergency often lie with you having a fully operational phone. However, despite the many advancements in mobile technology, our phone batteries tend to run out when most needed. Having a fully charged and operational spare phone and charger in your car can be significantly helpful in such a situation.
Having a flashlight or any sort of emergency lighting in case you happen to be stranded at night is extremely useful. Not only will it be able to help you carry out repairs, but it will also enable you to see everything that is going on around you.
If you haven't yet stocked up on your emergency car supplies, then it is high time that you do so. Considering the unpredictability of life, it helps to always be prepared. With these essentials, you will be able to effectively handle a wide range of car emergencies and also get the help you need.
Visit 1800prepare.com or call 1-800-773-7273 today to get in touch with 1800 Prepare.
]]>When assembling or buying a survival kit, try and picture your situation in a couple of emergencies and see what you will need. This will help you know some vital things to look out for whenever you step out to buy a survival kit. We can categorise the items in a typical one into a few groups for easier organisation.
They include;
The food and water here should have a long shelf life since you never know when you will need the survival kit. This way, you might not have the time to assemble fresh food. Since the survival kit should always be on standby, the food and water will be there, and it should last for at least five years. Typical things that should not miss out in this category include water pouches, food bars containing 400 calories each, water purification tablets and a hydration bag with a straw.
The items in this category help when you experience a power outage, problems with your vehicle or any other emergency. Individual items include a radio, hand rechargeable flashlight, emergency candles, survival whistle and a box of waterproof safety matches.
The supplies here will keep you safe from the elements of weather and other harsh conditions associated with staying outside your home. They include an emergency sleeping bag and a cloak with a hood.
These are handy items that will help to create shelter, navigate, move and do numerous other tasks that will help you to survive. They include a multifunction pocket knife, a dust mask, safety goggles and a sewing kit.
This is an important category as it contains items that will keep you safe from infection, disease and any health issues. They include toothpaste, toothbrush, wet wipes, soap, shampoo, comb, sanitary napkins, shave cream, body lotion, pocket tissues and washcloth, among others.
This kit will be used to treat small injuries and other health threats in a disaster.
Here, you can carry any other item you think will come in handy during the emergency. Examples include a notebook, survival playing cards and an infectious waste bag among others.
Note that the items mentioned will come in handy in an emergency, but it does not stop at that, as you need to look at other things before deciding what you will include in any survival kit.
One thing to consider is the number of people who will be using a single kit. It is recommended that everyone carries their survival kit, but when emergency strikes, this might not be possible due to the panic and confusion that ensues. Another scenario to look at is if you have small children with you and might be required to carry supplies that will cater to their needs as well. Once you determine this, you will be in a better position to know what you might need to add in your emergency kit.
While no one can anticipate an emergency, you can prepare for a couple of disasters based on where you live and previous history. For instance, if you live in an area that has a history of earthquakes and hurricanes, you should pack for such disasters. The type of emergency you are likely to face goes a long way to determine the supplies you should prioritise. If you expect emergencies that will keep you away from your house for a few days, then you should consider getting more food and additional sleeping gear.
Since your survival kit will lie around for a long time, you need to check it and ensure that everything is in good condition. Some of the ways of ensuring this include;
When assembling or buying a survival kit, focus on the functionality of the items inside and not the amount as you do not want to carry around a heavy bag during an emergency. You need to have a sizable pack that will keep you safe and facilitate your survival during an emergency. Rather than assembling one, you can buy a fully functional survival kit from 1800 Prepare and keep your family saf. Here, we have different types of emergency kits, and you can quickly pick one that suits the kind of emergency you are likely to face.
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]]>It's very easy to look at shows like Doomsday Preppers and think to yourself “I could never do that!” The truth is, the vast majority of people who “prep” don't do it that way, either. In fact, most people who prepare aren't planning for the end of the world or Armageddon or any other type of apocalypse. They're doing it as protection against leaner times.
When you were younger, you may have heard your grandparents or great grandparents talking about the Great Depression. After the stock market crashed in 1929, thousands of people lost jobs, and many families had to do without, or learn to live with very little, for many years afterwards. While our recent recession caused many to have to tighten their belts, it was mild compared to what our great grandparents, or their parents, went through.
Many who prep are doing so simply because they remember hearing stories of their own families going without. They know that, even though our country is technically in a recovery, the possibility of job loss is still very real, and that job security doesn't mean a whole lot for many people these days. They simply want to have something set by in case something bad happens.
Many start preparing by doing something so basic that even the government tells us we should: preparing a 72 hour kit to be used in case of emergency. Some people call this a bug out bag or go-kit. No matter what you call it, it contains three days of food, water, and clothing for everyone in your family. It may not be in a bag or backpack. A plastic tote is a great place to store a 72 hour kit, especially if you're planning on being able to drive out in an emergency, such as a weather or fire evacuation. This is the most common type of emergency that people prepare for.
From there, people usually try to increase the amount of supplies they have to a week, and then a few. One need only remember the long lasting power outages after Katrina and Sandy to have a good reason to stockpile a few weeks of food. If a major weather event moved through your area, would you be able to shelter in your home, if it was liveable? With a two week supply of food, your home would be a much safer, and more pleasant, option than a shelter.
As you can see, one doesn't need to build a bunker or have a year's worth of beans, rice, and water to be a prepper. Something as basic as preparing for a major weather event, or job loss, can make you a prepper. It's all a matter of mindset. Buying a little extra here and there really adds up over time.
It is not easy to establish how much food to pack, seeing as nobody knows how long a disaster situation can last. And who knows what type of disaster is going to strike next? All a person can do is try to be realistic, which is done through 3 simple questions.
The general guideline is to store enough food that can last everyone involved about 3 days. But it is much better if 14 days of food can be stored inside ready-to-go survival bags or backpacks. A person or family can only carry so much in an emergency situation, which is something to keep in mind.
When putting together a survival kit, specific kinds of food should come to mind. More specifically, food that can easily be stored for long periods. It also helps if the food is pre-cooked and does not require additional cooking. To provide some perspective on the best food choices, here are some suggestions.
Several options are available in the canned meat section, ranging from tuna to chicken. And it tastes better than a lot of people think. But this is a good source of protein that can be consumed cold and on-the-move.
Another great source of protein is jerky. Not only does it last long and taste good, but it stores easily too. As for dried fruit, these can keep up vitamin levels while addressing hunger.
One of the best snacks to have in a survival kit is a protein or energy bar. They come in many flavors and provide much-needed energy, especially during a disaster situation.
These are perfect for survivors with a particular taste. Freeze-dried meals also come in a wide variety of choices, combining and balancing nutritional portions.
These are just some foods that work perfectly for survival kits. But the main point is to focus on non-perishable items. And what type of food provides the most nutrition while taking as little space as possible? Food that requires refrigerated storage will simply not be practical. Instead, opt for food that can withstand different temperatures and circumstances.
There are no set rules as to where you should store food meant for emergencies. As long as it is dry, dark, and the temperature pretty stable, you can keep the food wherever you like. But it helps to think ahead. For example, storing the food inside a survival bag already saves you time. And keeping this bag in a place where you can quickly reach it gives you even more time. Some people even keep a survival kit in the car. Just try to stay in a practical state of mind when making this decision.
Over the years, ready-made kits have improved significantly in terms of taste. And you also get to choose between an assortment of foods. But custom food kits have gained popularity because it combines meals according to your specific taste. You even get to choose the size of the package. With ready-made kits, you have to choose from what is already available.
Both options will keep you fed during a survival situation. But if you are methodical about what you eat and you can afford to pay extra, custom food kits are probably better. For those that want to stick to a modest budget, ready-made kits can be just as good.
At the end of the day, it is all about planning. Keep in mind the number of people that will likely need to survive with you, invest in food that will not easily spoil or perish, and store it in a dry place where you can grab it and go. If you can keep it in a survival bag or backpack, even better.
When you have a survival kit in place, it will be easier to focus on escaping disasters or emergencies. While nobody can predict the future, it never hurts to be prepared. So, visit 1800 Prepare, where being prepared is simply a matter of choosing the right survival kit.
]]>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
]]>The question is do we really need these skills and is this what it means to be "prepared".
Many of these reality shows teach us skills to survive being stuck in the jungles or Borneo or in the wilds of Alaska, to survive a broken down Jeep off a remote mountain trail in the desert or after a shipwreck on a deserted island. While these shows are very interesting and teach some amazing survival skills, is this what the masses need to make them safer and better prepared for what I like to call...'Life's, what if's". A very small percentage of the population will encounter the situations on these shows. But what about the below?
*A car accident
*A vehicle breakdown at night on a dark road
*A fire in the home or office
*A carbon monoxide emergency
*A blackout
*A medical emergency such as a bad cut, heart attack, choking victim
*A sports injury or injury will taking a simple hike
*Severe weather
*A chemical release/spill
*A robbery or assault
The above incidents are something just about every person can face on a daily basis. In fact, most of us will have to deal with more than one of these situations multiple times a year. This doesn't mean we need to panic, run out and spend thousands of dollars or sign up to take dozens of courses to try to become survivalists. We don't need to learn to live off the land, build remote bunkers, stockpile years of food and supplies or otherwise plan to live off the grid. I am not saying these aren't important things for some people and the skills learned could be valuable. But I would recommend some of the below as a better place to start.
*Learn how to use a fire extinguisher
*Practice rapidly exiting your home with your family
*Make some basic family plans for different types of emergencies
*Make back-up copies of important documents and store them in another place
*Have a safe room that everyone knows to go to in severe weather
*Learn some basic first aid and CPR
*Buy at least some basic supplies like a good first aid kit, some flashlights, fire extinguishers for your home and carbon monoxide detectors
*In your car have a flashlight, a first aid kit and at least one road flare
None of the above items are particularly difficult to do or expensive. They don't take up a lot of time and if you do them it doesn't mean you are "paranoid"...but it will go a long way in making you better prepared for everyday potential emergencies and will help keep you calm in the face of potential disaster. Once you get some of these simple things done you can then learn how to field dress a deer and use its hide to make a sail for your driftwood raft.
Until next time...be safe.
]]>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.
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.
"These aren't comfortable things to talk about, but it all begins with preparations," said Angelo Bellomo, the county director of environmental health who oversees the Radiation Management unit.
"We think this is a great opportunity for us to open a dialogue with the 88 cities so they can begin to amend their emergency plans to include planning for a nuclear device."
Some of the emergency plans involve locating old bomb shelters in government facilities and other buildings for residents to flee to. However, some are concerned that the shelters are not enough:
"I don't mean to minimize the efforts of Los Angeles County in creating fallout shelters," [Sharon] Packer, [executive director of the American Civil Defense Association] said. "It is very important and a wonderful first step. The larger concern, in my estimation, is in the protection of our electrical grid and the storage of additional transformers to assure the continuance of our infrastructure."
Preparing for a nuclear attack must be a part of your emergency plans. Read our articles on nuclear attack preparedness to learn specifics on what to do.
]]>Make sure you have all of the proper supplies in your vehicle at all times. These include:
Check your spare for proper inflation every time you check the rest of your tires. Also, check the age of your spare. If it’s 10 years old or older replace it, even if it looks fine and holds air.
You should jack up your car on a flat hard surface. Most importantly, you need to be safely out of traffic. A parking lot is better than the roadside. If you must change your tire on the side of the road, give yourself plenty of room, use your hazard lights, and set up flares and reflective triangles.
Before your start, check all of your supplies. If you don’t have everything you need or if your spare is flat, you can stop now. If everything is in order, get all passengers out of the vehicle, apply the parking brake and block the tire diagonal from the one you are changing.
Check your owner’s manual for the proper jack placement for your specific vehicle. Remove the hubcap. Loosen, but do not remove, the lug nuts before you lift the vehicle. Jack the car up until the tire is no longer touching the ground and has enough clearance for you to remove it. Remove the lug nuts and tire. Put the spare on and replace the lug nuts, tightening in the order given in your owner’s manual. Lower the car and give the lug nuts a final tightening.
Read The Importance of Tire Safety for tips on how to avoid a flat or blowout in the first place.
]]>We’re going to cover the six main areas of tornado preparedness that will help you before, during, and after a tornado or heavy storm strikes. Appropriately, we’ll use the acronym S.T.O.R.M.S.:
Shelter – Strengthen your home and know where to find expedient shelter.
Time – Increase your chances of getting the early warning.
Others – Safety and protection involves the whole family and communicating with others.
Resources – You’ll need everything from immediate supply to good insurance.
Medical – Help yourself now to save the injured later.
Sweeping Up – Tips and tricks for dealing with the aftermath.
Severe storms with driving rain, possible hail, and projectiles hurled by strong winds offer extreme dangers from which we need to protect ourselves. The best protection would be a steel-reinforced concrete safe room located in your basement. Lacking that, let’s look at a few options:
In emergencies, our most important asset is time. The two best ways to gain extra time in weather emergencies are to prepare now, and to get as early a warning as possible that severe weather is heading your way.
“Others” is a reminder to communicate. Talk to your family now and be ready to talk to emergency responders after an incident. Consider:
In a disaster, you’ll need goods, gear, or services to help you deal with the event and then recover afterward. Make sure you have adequately covered each of the following areas:
Hopefully the advice above has kept you safe in the event of a tornado. Cover the following, just in case:
All destructive events have at least one thing in common; they’re going to create quite a mess. Here are a few tips:
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About the author: Paul Purcell is a security analyst and preparedness consultant with over 20 years risk management experience. He is also the author of "Disaster Prep 101," and a partner / adviser to 1-800-Prepare.
(Copyright, Paul Purcell. Permission granted to share this article provided all portions remain intact.)
]]>To that end, scientists and academics from the U.S., Japan and Indonesia are banding together to find proactive ways to combat the problem, according to an article in last week's New York Times.
This three country collaboration is being called "Disaster University" and academics from the University of Hawaii are training colleagues from Tohoku University in Japan on how to develop courses on all aspects of disaster response including the psychological and behavioral management side," according to the NYT piece. University of Hawaii researchers are looking at Indonesia as the focus country for Disaster University and is teaming with Gadjah Mada University and the Islamic University of Indonesia as Indonesia is the reportedly the most disaster prone area of the world, said Mochamad Tegun, dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Planning at the Islamic University of Indonesia.
More than 10,000 people are killed yearly and 200 million individuals are affected in the Asia-Pacific by natural disasters. Almost $300 billion was lost in 2011 alone due to the earthquakes and tsunamis in Japan and floods in Southeast Asia.
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