In my last few posts, I've talked about visiting my son and his wife in their home for the first time. I bought him an 80% lower that we finished together, and then we had some fun just talking and hanging out.
While I was there, we talked about safety and disasters they face in their area. Tornadoes are rare, but not unknown, and ice storms, snow and high winds are what usually cause problems. My son camps and goes 4-wheeling with an off-road club, so they have some supplies, but nowhere enough for a prolonged power outage or other disaster.
I suggested starting simple.
Starting Out
While I did mention looking at "Some Guy's" posts on 72 Hour planning, I suggested starting at the beginning and reading everyone's posts and the different perspectives to prepping people have.
Lokidude and Chaplin Tim cover vehicle preps (too many to link) along with many other preps; Erin brings the Gun Blog Variety Podcast while wearing the Jill-of-All-Trades, Editrix and Chief Cat Herder hat; Evelyn Hively, OkieRio, Firehand and The Discerning Shootist bring even more and different sets of skills to the group.
That being said, I wanted the first thing for my son to build is a Get Home Bag for each vehicle. These posts are where I want him to start, and adapt his gear to his situation.
- Chaplin Tim talked about bags here
- Evelyn started a discussion here (well, slightly before, but it really got interesting at part 2)
- Erin tweaks her gear regularly, with first aid always on her mind.
Must Haves
- Food: Whether stuck at work or on the road home, something quick and easy to fix is best. Personal taste and budget will influence what is bought.
- Water: Bottled and or some way to purify water, like a Sawyer Mini Filter or similar.
- Fire: Useful for heating your food, staying warm or signalling your location.
- Pot/Pan and Stove: A way to heat food and hold it above the fire.
- Weather Protection: This varies by location and season. This can be a permanent addition to a bag like a poncho, or as simple as an emergency 'space blanket'.
- First Aid Kit: This can be as simple, or as elaborate, as your training allows.
Home Preps
As I said, my son camps and has some food in his house, but not enough to be secure if power is out or the roads are blocked for too long. He is on the way to building a good base.
Must Haves
- Food: 72 hours worth (minimum) for each person.
- Water: 72 hours worth, and a way to filter more if needed.
- Pet Carriers: The two cats may need to be confined if there is damage to the house.
- Emergency Repairs: This is a good start on basic supplies.
- Tent: An extra shelter if the house is too damaged to occupy.
He owns a 4-wheel drive truck and is a skilled driver in difficult situations, so I don't worry about him in bad weather. His wife is also experienced with bad weather driving. Reading the links will give him info that will guide him in doing what is right for his situation.
I am very proud of the decisions he has made and how he is living his life.
The Takeaway
- Plan for your local disaster, be flexible in what you do, and be open to teaching.
- Start small, start easy, and build from your foundation of knowledge.
- Nothing was purchased this week or replaced in my stores.
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If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!
NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.
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