Make A Plan

     Last Saturday I wrote about disaster preparedness.  This week, I've done more reading, thought more about it, and taken more steps to make our family better prepared. Two good websites I found were:
www.ready.gov/america/getakit/
www.ready.gov/america/makeaplan/stayingput.html
     The first covers items recommended for a basic emergency supply kit.  The second, covers what is involved in sealing yourself in, as is happening in some areas in Japan.  This doesn't just apply to nuclear disasters, but it could be biologic or terrorist caused.  I quote from the website, "preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones.  Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make the difference when seconds count."  Obviously, these are issues that apply to more than earthquake, tornado or hurricane prone areas.  This could be anywhere.

    To our stash of canned goods, I'm adding first aid supplies and a first aid book, toilet paper, plastic bags, baking soda (for cleaning, shampooing, etc.), hand sanitizer, dry milk powder, and matches. Also, a list of family phone numbers with a designated out of town contact person (they said it is often easier to make long distance calls, or to text, so if everyone contacts the same person, connections will be made), and a wind-up emergency radio that will also charge a cell phone.  I had some of this in a special bag in the back of my closet.  I knew right where it was, but it wasn't easily accessible.  Now, it is. One thing they recommend, that I've tried several times and can't seem to pull off, is saving some cash.  Since power and  banking  systems would likely be down, cash would be needed for any purchases.  We save some, but then always need to dip into it for something or other.  It's a good idea - maybe you'll be more successful at saving than we are.
     The steps toward sheltering in are fairly involved and take pre-planning.  We're not taking these steps yet, but if you haven't seen this before, it's good to be aware of what is involved.
     If events cause societal discombobulation (yes, that's a real word), preparation could go a long way toward keeping our homes and families safe and comfortable.  Make a plan.