At work (OHSU) this week there have been red cross tables all over selling radio/light/medical kits and all sorts of other goodies for emergencies. They suggested that everyone have food and water at home for at least three days. It got me thinking about how I am really unprepared for any catastrophe. I have watched shows like Doomsday Preppers on TV and think that those people go way overboard in being ready for an emergency, but there has to be a good middle ground. Do you have goods and plans for emergencies? Do you think you should prepare more, are just right, or have gone a little overboard? What do you suggest people have at a minimum? Firearms?
Here's a good link for information: http://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/preppers-supply-list-for-economic-collapse/
I live in California and have an earthquake kit. Food, water, cat food, spare glasses, cash, flashlight, toothpaste, first aid kit, etc. I keep blanket & water in my car - if I'm stranded somewhere due to natural disaster, I can get by for a day or so with those two items. However, in a really strong earthquake, I might not be able to get to my earthquake kit. And I live on the Hayward fault. In an old house that was never retrofitted. The ground shifts so much I still find in the garden shit the previous occupant threw out (and I've lived there 14 years) that comes up to the surface periodically. But you never now how you will respond until the emergency happens. Prepare as best you can, know there are things you just can't be prepared for.
I never did until I moved to the Houston area. Now we have a "hurricane kit." Our consists of Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 7 to 10 days. Don't forget some for your pets. Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days non-electric can opener cooking tools / fuel paper plates / plastic utensils / paper cups trash bags and duct tape An ax Blankets / Pillows, etc. First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes Bug spray, Cortisone for bug bites Sunscreen & Lotion Tarp to cover holes if needed. Bleach Water purification tablets Waterless soap Flashlight / Batteries Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio Battery operated television, with extra batteries. Cash Toys, Books and Games Important documents - in a waterproof container. Keep important phone number here. You may know them, but a loved one may not. Gun (ABSOLUTELY) A pocket knife Vehicle fuel tanks filled Pet care items proper identification / immunization records / medications ample supply of food and water a carrier or cage muzzle and leash We also have a generator as well, so during Ike we were one of the more popular houses on the block.
Im not as prepared as I should be but I've done a lot of research on this subject and have plans. Costco offers some good emergency food in their online store, anywhere from a couple hundred servings to a couple thousand. If you want to save money hook up with the Mormons, they preach being prepared and actually have centers set up for their members where you can buy bulk food and can it for low cost, they have days that they will let non members in their facilities or if you have a mormon friend you can go with them whenever its open. Most people overlook water also, so dont forget to add some sort of water to your plans.
Remember if you are white you are legally allowed to "forage" local businesses for items during times of disasters.
wait a minute, I just realized this is a trick..... Dont do anything, the government will take care of us right?
