Are You Prepared?

Water is Life– The body needs H2O to operate appropriately and begins to shut down after 2 to 3 days.  One day of dehydration can inhibit judgment and make you venerable to toxins.

Food is Fuel– When stores run bare, it can lead to tension and fear among the community.  Everyone has food at the house, but if you need to leave, you will need emergency food kits (non-perishables).  The human body can go a couple of weeks without food, but you need the energy to stay alert and strong to battle the environment and inhabitants. 

Remain Warm and Dry– No one can count on great weather all the time.  Even at home, you need to ensure your body temperature is at safe levels with blankets, ponchos, and hand warmers.  Clothes specific to the environment (winter/summer).  Ensure you have a safe area for fire to ensure safe drinking water. 

Hygiene is Key– Staying healthy in an emergency includes a regular daily routine of hygiene maintenance, teeth brushing, shaving, and washing.  Keeping the body clean can stave off diseases and infections.  Prepare with feminine care supplies, diapers, etc., specific to your family’s needs.  Staying clean can also keep you serene during times of disruption.
   
Light the Way– Ensure you have adequate lighting during a time of emergency.  Again, this includes fire to aid in food and water sources. 

Be Ready to Work– There is no time for complacency in an emergency.  You must do your part to make it through an emergency event.  Since cuts, scrapes or injuries are the last things you want to deal with in these circumstances, you need to have gloves, multi-tools, screwdrivers, and can openers.
         
Radio– Cell phones and landlines are never promised in emergencies.  Make sure you have a method to contact friends and family.  Have a family plan already in action.  Emergency Band Radios can aid in outdoor communications.  You will need a whistle, map, and compass with the radio.  If you manage to find power during these situations, keep all devices charged.  Social media updates can mean the difference between life and death. 
If there are no power outlets or rendered useless, make sure to have powering equipment to harness the sun or via hand crank.  Get a solar-powered multi-device outlet. 
  
Medical Emergency– Basic first aid is a necessity.  First Aid Kit, bandages, gauze, bacteria-killing ointment, and basic pain meds are a must.  Tourniquets and burn creams should be in the kit.  Minor injuries can progress into bigger problems if not addressed quickly and thoroughly.
If you have to move in the blink of an eye, stashing small waterproof backpacks and side pouches makes traveling easier. 
 
Many of us had to learn preparedness the hard way this year.  So, there are no more excuses to stay oblivious.  If you are not prepared to survive a disaster for at least 72 hours, you are running an unnecessary risk for yourself and any dependents.  Give yourself some much-needed peace of mind by thinking ahead.  When the time comes, it will be worth it!    
 
Create Your Emergency Supply Kits:   
Insulation:
Jacket
Gloves
Hat
Emergency Poncho
Illumination/Heat/Fire:
Flashlight
Batteries
Lanterns
Candles
Matches
Lighter
Firestarter
Fritos-You can eat them, of course, but did you know that you can use them for starting a fire? Keep a small bag of them in your pack with some waterproof matches, and they burn better than paper or grass to start a fire! If it is wet, this may save your life. 
Brillo Pad and 9V Battery- Did you know that if you take both ends of a brillo pad and attach it to both sides of a 9V battery, you can create an immediate fire.
Safety:
First Aid Kit
Medications
Basic First Aid Supplies
Hardware:
Duct Tape
Knives
Screwdriver
Scissors
Map
Ax
Non-perishable foods:
Powdered milk
Canned Foods
Beans
Rice
Noodles
Dry Cereal
Nuts
Dry Fruits
Crackers
Water
Dry Pet Food
Water treatment supplies:
Chlorine tablets
Pot to Boil Water
Necessities:
Tents
Soap
Blankets
Tarps
Pots/Pans/Plates
Trash bags
Zip ties
Can opener
Knife
Eating Utensils
Toiletries
Whistle
Emergency Band Radio
Rope
Eyeglasses

Map
Prepare:
Important Documents (Birth Certificates, Driver’s License, Adoption Papers, Passports, Photos of family and pets, to help find loved ones if separated, Medication List, and Money in Waterproof Ziplock Bags)
Ration Food and Water as Needed
Ensure you have a water source (Boil Water Before Consuming)
Firearms and Ammo for personal protection
There is Power in Numbers- Have an already established team and a meeting place. 
 
Never Say Never.
Love You All… Nothing You Can Do About It.
Until Next Week,
 
Dr. Amy Miller