Shine a Light on Preparedness

The recent storms that ripped through the south last week is a reminder of the importance of being prepared. This has been the worst season for tornados since the deadly outbreaks in 1953.  The path of destruction spanned several states and claimed the lives of hundreds and the livelihoods of tens of thousands before the winds settled.

Many survivors of the storm were buried under rumble for several hours before being rescued. That must have been terrorizing for all involved. In some instances residents only had seconds to seek shelter from flying debris, shattering glass and punishing winds. 

Being prepared for such devastation is nearly impossible; however, staging supplies and resources that you might need following such severe storms could help to ease your mind and even save your life. For those tornado victims who only had time to bunker down in an interior hallway, closet or bathroom, having a flashlight, disposable blanket, emergency siren/whistle and important personal, medical and financial documents in an easy to grab bag would have been extremely helpful.

Since last week, I have been in contact with family, friends and other acquaintances about their horrific experiences and learned that many were simply not prepared. No battery operated radio, no flashlight, no shoes were among the many essential items that my loved ones failed to collect and store for an event such as these killer tornados. With Mother’s Day coming up this weekend and Father’s Day and graduations next month, I have decided to help my family and friends to assemble their own Emergency Go Bags so that they are not left without essential items in the event of other short-term or long-term disasters. To get started I am going to make certain that each loved one has at least these ten items in their bags: 1) battery/crank operated radio; 2) battery operated or crank flashlight; 3) emergency tool/hammer; 4) large water proof tarp; 5) Whistle or Siren; 6) hygiene products; 7) First Aid Kit; 8) Water proof matches; 9) rubber coated work/garden gloves; 10) A copy of the FEMA “Emergency Financial First Aid Kit” http://www.operationhope.org/images/uploads/Files/effak2.pdf

Other items such as prescription medications, a change of clothing, protective footwear and food items can be supplied by the recipient of the bag. Stay tuned to future Sophie Gadgets Blogs for more suggestions for Emergency Preparedness and Aging-in-Place devices.