Preparedness–Some Basic Survival Supplies

April 21, 2011

When you think of “disasters”, what comes to mind: hurricanes, floods, forest fires, tornadoes, earthquakes, financial collapse, war? Your answer(s) depend largely on where you live, your past experiences and your personal beliefs. However, your expectations regarding a specific disaster may not take into consideration several factors of which you may not be aware.

For example, I live in the low mountains in Western North Carolina, U.S.. While earthquakes are one of the more likely events to cause us CATASTROPHIC disruption here, most residents are not aware of that fact. We CAN however, imagine something which most non-residents would think us not likely to be subjected to: hurricanes. We’re hundreds of miles from any coast, yet several hurricanes in the last 20 years have caused extensive flood and storm damage, even spawning some wind damage believed to be tornadic rather than straight line winds (as if it makes a whole lot of difference), something thought not possible in such mountainous terrain.

Another question to ask: when you think of being “prepared”, what are your first thoughts? Most people think: food, water, shelter, heat, safety, light, communications, etc. Again, what you focus on first is greatly influenced by your past experiences, present circumstances, finances, available resources, etc. In most situations, shelter should be the first priority. Think about it, even if you have tons of food, live by a body of potable water, generate your own power, etc, you could still die of hypothermia OR hyperthermia if you’re not sheltered from the elements!  And in many cases, your shelter may be nothing more than a very inexpensive survival blanket small enough to fit in your pocket or purse. Just something to keep moisture and wind off your body (even in moderate temperatures) or to protect you from the harsh rays of the sun.

And here’s a simple little fact to encourage you to take action NOW! For as little as $5 you might save your own life (in more ways than one–explanations later); for as little as $20, you can add a degree of safety and reassurance for yourself and your family/group. Around $100 will bring you even more comfort, physical and psychological strength and connection with others. This part of the website will eventually include EVERYTHING I teach in my 4 hour seminar on Disaster Preparedness. Only members, however, will have access to ALL this treasure-trove of information.

In the meantime, check out the websites for the Red Cross, FEMA, and other related public and private sites, they have extensive information and have downloadable checklists which are quite handy to get you moving and keep you focused on your immediate needs.  More next time. Be well.  B.