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 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 ReadingFoot and Mouth Disease
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease of over 70 species of wild and domestic cloven-hoofed mammals. From the OIE Technical Disease Cards, the early signs include “vesicles on the tongue, dental pad, buccal mucosa, cheeks, gums, hard and soft palate, nostrils, muzzle, feet, corium of dewclaws, interdigital spaces, or teats”. […]
Continue ReadingFirst Aid Basics
No one wants to deal with a medical emergency. They are never planned, and always seem to occur at the least opportune time. You can minimize the impact, and probably improve the outcome if you are prepared. Everyone can learn basic first aid skills. You don’t have to have extensive training to handle most everyday […]
Continue ReadingEvacuation Prep
No one wants to think about the day when they will have to leave the security of their own home because of an impending threat. This could be in the form of a fire, flood, hurricane, or environmental contamination. Being prepared will ensure that you have everything that you need to make the best […]
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