Daily Preparedness

Recent events prove once again that disaster can strike anywhere and at any time. Whether you are at the office, on vacation, going about your daily errands or sitting at home, you may face an unannounced disaster. Being prepared ahead of time with the simplest of supplies can make the difference between life and death, safety and serious injury.

One man caught in the Haiti earthquake found his way to safety relatively quickly with the aid of a small, inexpensive flashlight. This one small device, clamped to his cell phone, allowed him to pick his way through the rubble and find safe shelter after the devastating earthquake. Though we may never encounter an earthquake, there are a myriad of situations that could leave us stranded in the midst of chaos. Thinking and planning ahead of time are your best defenses!

In addition to your home-based 72-hour kit and your automobile emergency kit, considering preparing small kits that you keep in your office, briefcase and luggage. College dorm rooms should all have at least the basics! The size and quantity of items you place in your kit will be determined by where you store it. For most items, look for ‘mini’ versions in the travel and sports sections of discount stores. Your basic ‘To Go’ Kit should include:

1. Small flashlight and batteries. Store batteries outside of the flashlight. Many companies also sell really small flashlights that can be clamped on to your keys or cell phone. Such flashlights do not have always have easily replaceable batteries, but will provide instant light to help you locate your other supplies. Remember, too, that many cell phones can become temporary flashlights when their screens illuminate.

2. Long term water. ‘Water Blox’ and similar brands of water designed for long term storage at a variety of temperatures are readily available.

3. Power Bars. Store several high calorie bars, either ones from the grocery store or the type certified by the Coast Guard.

4. Heavy duty trashbags. Trashbags can become a variety of things including weather protection, shelter, blocking air, etc.

5. Small roll of duct tape. A brightly colored or fluorescent mini-roll would be the best option.

6. ‘Swiss Army’ type knife. One of the most compact styles is the size of a credit card. Make sure you have one with scissors and don’t forget to remove it from your carry-on luggage.

7. Hand sanitizer.

8. Cash and coins. Remember that a mini-M&M tube will hold quarters and rolled bills.

9. ‘Space blanket’. These are lightweight and can be used for protection from the cold as well as signalling.

10. Pocket sized tissues.

11. Feminine hygiene products. In addition to the obvious, they make great pressure bandages.

12. N-95 mask. Many disasters involve large amounts of contaminated dust and other particles. Get a mask that fits tightly against your mouth and nose.

13. Local map. If you had to walk home from your office, would you know the best route? What about alternate routes? Mark your map with the homes of friends, fire stations, police stations & hospitals. Use a fine point permanent marker and code your marks such as ‘F’ for friend, ‘P’ for police, ‘H’ for hospital.

14. First aid supplies. Pack as many as you can in the space you have available.

15. Backpack. Being able to easily carry what you have is critical. For a mini-kit, consider a ‘fanny pack’ or small backpack that is lightweight and folds compactly.

16. Communications. Cell phone with phone numbers & email addresses (include out of town family contact as well as local friends), a small radio, paper, pencil, permanent marker. If you are leaving your office, leave behind a note that states your name, time & date you left and where you are headed.

17. Medications. If you must have daily or emergency medications, ALWAYS carry at least a 3-day supply with you. This would include medications for allergies, heart condition, blood pressure, diabetes, asthma or any other condition that could become critical without medication.

18. Walking shoes and socks. Your office kit should include a pair of closed toe shoes and socks that you can walk well in.

19. A few waterproof matches.

20. Compass. There are many small ones available in sporting good stores.

21. Whistle. Whistles are critical for signaling. Purchase a sturdy plastic one. There are some on the market that combine a whistle, flashlight and compass.

22. A change of clothes. If your workplace, or surrounding area, were affected by a biochemical incident, you would need to be able to change your clothes. Pack clothes that can be layered.

23. ID card. Have a card in your kit with your name, home address, phone number, emergency contact, blood type & any pertinent medical history.

Instead of evacuating, circumstances may require you to remain in your office for several days. The supplies in your kit will make such a situation safer and more comfortable.

In addition to supplies, set goals to learn some basic skills such as first aid, basic signaling and hiking.

Mentally prepare yourself. Know the most likely disasters that could occur in your area—are they natural or man made disasters? Think through evacuation routes and develop a family communications plan. If you are in a carpool, make a plan for meeting in the case of an evacuation order.

If you are traveling internationally, especially in less developed countries, register your trip with the U.S. Embassy or consulate. Know where the embassy is!

Always remember that immediately after any major disaster, you are most likely going to have to rely on yourself and those around you. Planning and preparation will be your greatest allies!