As we trudged knee-deep through the course of this year, we witnessed dramatic adjustments in our life. In scientific measurement terms, we experienced a “shift-ton” of change. Many human and pet viral strains arise from genetic mutations, processes commonly referred to as “shift and drift.” Antigenic drift represents subtle changes that occur through transcription errors. […]
Continue ReadingGo Bag Basics
What is a Go Bag? It is a supply kit for each individual for at least 72 hours of food, water, medication, and clothing. Each kit will be tailored to the needs of the situation, including medical conditions, weather conditions, and expected length of the emergency. Every member of the family needs a kit, including […]
Continue ReadingTornado Season is Upon Us
Lengthening days and warmer weather bring spring storms. With tornado season upon us, now is the time to go through your Go Bag, update medications, swap out for warm weather clothing, and update documents. In our previous posts, we laid the groundwork for building your own Go Bag and first aid kit. Hopefully, you have […]
Continue ReadingA Tiny Miracle Can Prevent a Big Disaster
Few people have been affected first hand by disaster like the residents of California right now. Devastation of that magnitude is thankfully rare in the US. Because of the extremely rapid movement of the fires, not everyone was able to evacuate with their animals to safety. Many pets, both large and small, have been rescued […]
Continue ReadingLife in the ICP
In the last segment, we introduced the Incident Command System (ICS). In this post, we will cover the day-to-day workings of the Incident Command Post (ICP). This is the facility where the Command and General Staff work. The size of the incident determines the size of the ICP. In small, short responses, the ICP can […]
Continue ReadingIntroduction to ICS
No one wants to experience a disaster. But, disasters happen every day. Most people plan ahead of time, to limit the impact the disaster has on them. A few go above and beyond, and willingly respond to the disaster. These people give their time and skills to assist the victims with rescue and recovery. […]
Continue Reading2.5 Month Check-in
Spring Break has passed, and it’s time to hit the books again. In just 10 rapidly approaching weeks, all your hard work will be put to use. Now is also a good time to check in with your mentor for any additional helpful hints, or just moral support.
Continue ReadingCold Weather Prep
Winter has arrived in many parts of the country. For many, this means months of snow and below freezing temperatures. Here are a few things you can do to prepare yourself and your animals to get through as comfortably as possible.
Continue ReadingHurricane Preparation
This has been an unprecedented year for hurricanes. A total of three Category 4 storms made landfall in the US. Hurricanes are rated using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Category 4 hurricanes have sustained winds of 130 to 156 mph. While the scale can give you an idea of just how strong the storm is, […]
Continue ReadingBiosecurity
Biosecurity is a very important aspect of any size operation, from a handful of chickens in the backyard to large commercial swine operations. The purpose of biosecurity is to prevent infectious diseases from coming into the herd or flock. There are many ways that disease can enter a premises. Bacteria and viruses can be […]
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