This post is reminiscent of Cher, The Eagles, KISS and so many other bands who never can say good-bye. Ahh, but only if the cash flowed into my coffers as easily as it does for their boomerang acts, but that's another topic! 🙂
You may have heard that the earth moved in a very big way this past weekend. The earthquake, which occurred off the coast in Northern British Columbia, registered 7.7 on the Richter Scale.
It was big and close enough to propel BC residents into action - specifically, to assemble their emergency grab-and-get-the-h***-out kit.
The papers have been full of stories of stampeding shoppers rushing to void the shelves of the suggested necessities for survival should/if/when the "Big One" hits. As someone who takes that threat seriously, I'm glad that this test run has spurred previously complacent people into action.
Regardless of where you live, natural and man-made disasters can erupt at any time. Just in Case the edict to evacuate occurs when you are not "conveniently" at home, it is especially important to have some necessities with you. I am gathering other items to augment the essentials that I've stored in my car.
The stress of a disaster could initiate a flare-up, so make sure that you are as well prepared as possible; although an emergency is unpredictable at best, you can mitigate some of your anxiety by developing a plan and practicing it.
During a disaster, such as an earthquake, strength is required; mental and emotional fortitude will enable you to navigate the rubble and disorganization that ensues. However, physical strength is a necessity; the able-bodied may have difficulty turning off the gas or escaping from a home when the door frame has shifted. Imagine how much more vulnerable people are when they struggle with mobility. Do you have a neighbourhood plan? See the resources below.
This is a good time to mind your pees - plan, purchase, prepare, practice and participate.
Resources:
- Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities
- Your Emergency Preparedness Guide
- Basic Emergency Kit
- Emergency Management BC
Not in BC or Canada? Check out your government pages for information specific to your area.
Excellent advice in these wild and crazy times. You are always so clear headed about these things. Beth
Thanks, Beth. It’s called self-preservation. 🙂
Great minds think alike! I was just thinking last night we should have a kit in the car for when we are not home, should “the big one” hit.
The trick is to find nooks and crannies for that stuff. 🙂
It’s interesting that the earthquake off BC’s coast got very little attention in Seattle. Thanks for the reminder that we live on a major fault…off to gety emergency gear in order!
I’m surprised that no mention was made in your papers, Andrew.The focus was probably on Sandy.
How are your preparations coming along?
There was some outrage here because the earthquake got too little attention, and I see that the hot springs have ended.
Always a good idea to be prepared. All we did to get ready for the storm was buy some water, and today our water got cut off for a while.
Hi Annette,
I was surprised to read about the hot springs drying up.
Good thing you bought your water.