Moving into March!

March  Already?

The video version is now on YouTube!

 The importance of preparedness cannot be overstated in today's uncertain world. As highlighted in our latest podcast episode, the window for adequate preparation is closing rapidly as store shelves begin to thin out and essential supplies become harder to obtain. This stark reality underscores the need to start preparing today, not tomorrow.

One compelling story shared in the episode involves a 79-year-old skier who became disoriented in Montana's backcountry. After going missing, search efforts were hampered by poor visibility. Fortunately, the elderly man survived the night by finding shelter in a tree well, using pine branches for insulation, and building a small fire to stay warm until rescuers spotted him the next day. This real-life survival situation perfectly illustrates how having even basic knowledge and simple tools can mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations.

Everyday carry (EDC) items form the foundation of personal preparedness. Something as small as a keychain micro light that costs just $12 can provide critical illumination when needed. The podcast emphasizes that these seemingly insignificant tools—flashlights, whistles, compasses, and fire starters—can prove invaluable during emergencies. When selecting a flashlight, consider practical features like switch location (end-mounted switches prevent accidental activation in pockets), brightness levels, durability, and power source. Higher-end models even offer dual functionality, serving as power banks for charging phones or other devices during emergencies.

The concept that "one is none, two is one" reminds us that redundancy in emergency supplies is crucial. Items get lost, break, or fail, so having backups ensures you're not left without essential tools. Additionally, the podcast advises against purchasing pre-made emergency kits, instead suggesting customized solutions based on personal needs and circumstances. This personalized approach ensures your preparedness matches your specific situation, environment, and skill set.

Family emergency planning represents another critical aspect of preparedness discussed in the episode. With modern families often spread across different locations during the day—parents at separate workplaces and children at school or daycare—having a coordinated plan becomes essential. This includes establishing meeting points, communication protocols, code words for children's safety, and ensuring everyone knows their role in various emergency scenarios. Involving children in these discussions and preparations helps them feel engaged while building valuable life skills and resilience.

The podcast concludes with practical advice for moving forward: sign up for local emergency alerts, register for preparedness classes before they fill up, and most importantly, have serious conversations with family members about emergency planning. As emphasized throughout the episode, preparedness isn't about fear—it's about responsibility. In the words of the host, "It is your responsibility to be your own first responder" until professional help arrives. This fundamental mindset shift from dependency to self-sufficiency forms the core of effective emergency preparation.