EARTHQUAKES!
Folks, earthquakes are a part of life on this planet. Recent earthquakes demonstrate that the earth continues to move, and when it does, it shakes up our life.
We expect that each of you has taken some very basic steps towards being prepared for an earthquake here in California, or wherever you live.
Much has already been written about the need to be prepared, and the type of gear you should store.
MORE THAN STUFF While it is important to be prepared with batteries, and water, and food, and cooking devices, and toilet paper, and all the stuff that makes your life continue in a somewhat regular manner, do not forget that survival planning is about more than having the stuff. If you lived in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina, all your stuff would be underwater and you would have to decide where to go, and what to bring, and how to get there. If you live in North Carolina where Hurricane Florence is hammering the Atlantic Coast, your stuff might get blown away. Survival and self-reliance includes the stuff, but it includes so much more. We have long advocated that you get to know your neighbors and develop local relationships that involve working together during normal times. If you know your neighbors and you do things together (dinners, building projects, giving rides, etc.), then you are far more likely to jump into action with your neighbors after an emergency. Neighborhood Watch activities are a great way to develop these skills. Besides developing relationships with others, you should never stop learning new skills, such as you might learn at a local CERT meeting. Do not overlook your physical fitness! In a serious emergency where you must leave your home, or where you cannot rely upon a car, your body is your vehicle. If you do not exercise, and are out of shape, you will not be able to perform well. Those who plan ahead for a major hurricane have the luxury to load up the car or truck and drive out of town. Just look at the thousands of cars on the highways who were fleeing the path of Florence. But if you wait too long, highways are so jammed to become useless. Remember the pictures of Woodstock, New York, during the rock festival? There were so many cars that people simply abandoned that and walked. If a major quake hit the L.A. basin, there would be no time to get ready unless you were already somewhat ready. If you had to depart, you are at a severe disadvantage, having to flee, and go somewhere with the mob of panicked people who are also fleeing to who-knows-where. If you take the time to regularly walk around your neighborhood, or even bicycle, you will experience many benefits besides being more earthquake-ready. You will feel better physically! And as you walk, or bike, around, you will see aspects of your own neighborhood that you did not know existed. You will meet neighbors, and you will realize that yes, you can be your own vehicle. Though you could never carry as much gear on your bicycle or back as you could in your truck, walking and bicycling at least free your mind and body to the potentials you have probably forgotten you had. Questions? Please write.
