First Aid

 Last month we learned how to stay warm without natural gas. This month we’ll discuss maintaining our physical and mental health during a disaster.

Week #1—Mental Health

Injuries, property damage, loss of comforts, and time spent waiting can challenge our mental health, especially for children. Include some items in each person’s 72-hour kit to take their minds off the situation and calm troubled emotions.

·      Familiar blanket, stuffed animal

·      Toys, games, puzzle books

·      Reading books, scriptures

Week #2—Physical Preparation

Emergencies are more physically demanding than normal life. Increase your physical activity now to prepare for the added demands of getting life back to normal.

Week #3—First Aid Kit

Basic first aid kits are inexpensive (299 pieces $18 – $20). If you already have a kit, check the dates and replace any items that expire within a year. Good first aid kits contain the following items:

·      First aid instruction guide

·      Bandages (small, medium, large), gauze pads

·      ACE bandage, self-adherent cohesive wrap

·      Adhesive tape, KT tape

·      Antiseptic wipes, Neosporin

·      Sunscreen, burn cream

·      Bug repellent, sting relief swabs

·      Eye wash, Q-tips

·      Thermometer, cold pack

·      Scissors, tweezers, safety pins

·      N95 medical mask, examination gloves

Week #4—Gather Medications

Gather a week supply of medications for each person, similar to going on vacation. Put them in each person’s 72-hour kit and replace expired items once a year.

·      Prescription medications

·      Vitamins, nutritional supplements

·      Pain reliever, antacids

·      Pepto Bismol, laxative

·      Benadryl

Extra Credit—Help Your Neighbors

During large emergencies, hospitals and medical facilities get overwhelmed quickly. Our neighborhood needs to be prepared to take care of ourselves.

We are compiling a list of people with medical training. It would be nice to have someone on every street in the neighborhood. Please let us know if you have even basic first aid skills.

Natural Gas in an Emergency- January 2023

 

Neighborhood Emergency Preparedness
January 2023 – Natural Gas

Last month we prepared for extended power outages. This month we’ll learn how to stay warm without natural gas.

Week #1—Got Gas? 😊

Most people have a natural gas furnace and water heater. Staying warm is the biggest concern about losing natural gas during the winter.

Week #2—Do Not Turn Off Gas…

Unless you are sure you smell gas (rotten eggs) and can safely get to the gas meter. To turn off the gas, keep a large crescent wrench in an accessible place, like your 72-hour kit. Only a professional should turn the gas back on.

Leave the area immediately and call 911 from a safe place. Do not smoke, use a lighter/match, or start a vehicle/machine.

Gas lines are remarkably resistant to earthquake damage. The most common cause of broken gas lines is a water heater falling over. Buy and install a water heater strap ($17 - $20).

Week #3—Staying Warm

If you lose natural gas or electricity, you lose your furnace too. You can stay warm, even during the winter, by…

·      Create a micro environment by setting up a small tent inside your house (very effective)

·      Layer clothing (long underwear, shirt, sweater, coat)

·      Winter hat, gloves, boots, etc. (while indoors)

·      Breathe through a scarf (works wonders)

·      Have everyone stay together in the same room

·      Sleep with extra blankets and quilts

Include a hat, gloves, scarf, and warm blanket in each person’s 72-hour kit.

For a 3-minute video, click here.

Week #4—Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a big concern during the winter. You can get warm by evacuating to an emergency shelter, but your pipes may freeze, break, and flood your home while you’re away. Prevent this by either (1) leave faucets dripping just enough to keep your pipes from freezing or (2) turn off the main water valve to your house and drain the water out of all of your pipes. Keep cabinet doors open so the heat in the house will keep pipes warm longer.

Extra Credit—Alternate Heat Source

It’s wise to have an alternate heat source, like a fireplace insert or wood stove. Test your carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working.

A small propane heater is another option. There are several simple models made for indoor use ($80 - $110). Make sure it will automatically shut off if tipped over, pilot light goes out, or detects low oxygen. Read and follow all of the instructions.

Electricity- December 2022

 

Last month we added a 3-day supply of easy-to-prepare food into our 72-hour kits. This month we’ll focus on what to do when the lights go out.

Week #1—Got Power?

Electricity is the utility we use the most. However, it’s also the one we lose the most. You need to plan on how to get along without electricity for a few days.

Use surge protectors (not cheap power strips) on electronic devices to protect them from power spikes. Stay away from downed power lines. Know how to turn off the electricity to your home and to override your electric garage door opener.

Week #2—Flashlights and Radio

The first thing you’ll need when the lights go out is a flashlight. Keep some in your 72-hour kit and by your bed. It’s also wise to have candles, matches, and a battery powered radio. (Store the batteries with but not inside the flashlight to avoid damage from battery corrosion.)

Include enough batteries to last several days.

Week #3—Cash and Gas

Because credit card readers need electricity to work, keep $50 - $100 cash in your 72-hour kit. This allows you to buy groceries and supplies while the power is out. Smaller bills are best because stores may not be able or willing to give change.

Gas pumps need electricity to work, so keep your gas tank at least half full at all times. Since stop lights will be out, eliminate unnecessary travel.

Week #4—Cell Phone Considerations

Because you may be able to send text messages when you can’t make phone calls, a cell phone is vital for emergencies.

Conserve your cell phone battery by reducing the brightness of your screen, placing your phone in airplane mode, and closing apps you don’t need. Know how to use Power Saving mode and switch to it before your battery gets low.

Buy a car charger so you can charge your cell phone off your car battery. You can also buy spare batteries for some cell phones.

Cordless phones don’t work when electricity is out, so keep at least one corded phone in your home if you have a land line.

Extra Credit—Buy a Generator

If you can afford it, a generator can keep your house warm, food cold, kitchen working, and phones charged. However, it must be properly installed, maintained, and operated. Fuel must be rotated and there are fuel storage regulations. Read all the instructions and heed all the warnings. Improper use can cause property damage and even death. For a 3-minute video, click here.

A simple inexpensive alternative for short outages is an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS; $50 - $80). It can automatically keep your router (Internet) working and recharge cell phones for a few hours.

Contact: Amy Dennison amymorris@gmail.com onesteptoprep.blogspot.com

Food- November 2022

Last month we added 3 gallons of water per person into our 72-hour kit. This month we’ll add a 3-day supply of food.

 

Week #1—Got Food?

You need a 3-day supply of non-perishable easy-to-prepare food. The physical, mental, and emotional stress of the situation will make you very hungry. Store more food than you normally eat.

When your world is turned upside down, you will crave familiar food. Emergency stores sell entrees that last 20 years. However, they are often expensive, low calorie, high sugar, and high salt. You will save money and feel better if you store food you normally eat and rotate it by the expiration date.

If the power is off over 8 hours, the food in your fridge may spoil, even if you keep the door closed. When in doubt, throw it out.

Week #2—No Cook Food

Because your microwave and stove may not be available, store a variety of ready-to-eat food in an insulated waterproof container like an ice chest.

·      Ice chest

·      Nuts, trail mix, peanut butter, beef jerky

·      Energy bars, granola bars, fruit bars

·      Canned fruit, raisins, dry fruit, fruit juice

·      Cold cereal, granola cereal

·      Powdered milk, Morning Moo milk

·      Crackers, graham crackers, snacks, candy

·      Pet food, food bowl, water bowl

Week #3—Hot Water Food

If you don’t own a camp stove or grill, buy a folding stove for each person ($9 - $16 each) and 3 days of fuel ($3 a can). Do not store fuel in the house. Try it a few times to know how it works.

·      Camp stove, fuel, matches

·      Small pan to heat water

·      Instant oatmeal, dry soup, Ramen noodles

·      Hot chocolate, apple cider

·      Baby formula, baby bottles, baby food

Week #4—No Dish Cooking

Even though canned food can be eaten cold, it’s much nicer hot. To heat it in the can, remove the label and drain some liquid. Before it boils over, pick it up with pliers. Avoid dishes by using paper products.

·      Can opener (manual), pliers, garbage bags

·      Paper plates, cups, and bowls (large)

·      Plastic utensils (sturdy), paper towels

·      Canned meat, fish, soup, stew, chili

·      Canned vegetables

Extra Credit—Advanced Kitchen Supplies

If you would like to eat better or prepare for longer emergencies, store dishwashing supplies, extra water, cooking pans and tools, camp oven, foil, seasonings, etc.

 

Contact: Amy Dennison amymorris@gmail.com onesteptoprep.blogspot.com

 

Neighborhood Radio Net: Sunday, Nov 13, 4 pm: Participate in a GMRS Radio Net on the 2^nd Sunday at 4 pm. Eric & Amy Dennison will be available to answer questions about the GMRS radios. If you have a GMRS radio, we can do a test and help you get started using it.

Zoom link: https://byui.zoom.us/s/4366630502 (Join as attendee)

Got water?

 

Oct 2022 – Water

Week #1—Got Water?

Because water is so inexpensive, we tend to take it for granted. But, the water supply is often interrupted during emergencies.

Water is necessary for digestion, circulation, muscle performance, and body temperature. Symptoms of dehydration are headache, fatigue, constipation, and rapid pulse. You can only survive a few days without water. Assess your water needs. Where can you store it? What do you need to do to improve your water storage?

Bonus: Try using only your stored water for 2-3 days. See if you can live on one gallon of water per person per day.

Week #2—Gallon Per Person Per Day

Each person should have 3 gallons of water in their 72-hour kit. This sounds like a lot, but a large case of water (40 half liter bottles; $4 - $6) is enough for two people. Store the water in a cool, dark place and rotate it by the expiration date.

If the emergency lasts more than 3 days, water distribution points will be set up. However, you need your own container to carry water home. Buy a 5-gallon water jug (with spout; $9 - $13).

Week #3—Buy Water Heater Strap Kit

If city water becomes contaminated, try to turn off your main water valve before it enters your home. You can then drain clean water out of your water heater and the pipes in your home.

However, if your water heater tips over in an earthquake, a broken water line will flood your basement and a broken gas line can cause an explosion. Buy a water heater strap kit ($17 - $20).

Week #4—Brace Your Water Heater

Follow the instructions in your water heater strap kit to tie your water heater to the wall so it will not tip over in an earthquake. This allows you to rely on your water heater, instead of worrying about it during an emergency. For a 4 minute video, click here.

Extra Credit—Store More Water

If you would like to prepare for longer emergencies, you can store your own water. However, make sure you do it right.

Do not use plastic milk jugs—they will break. Do not use juice bottles—sugar in the plastic causes bacteria growth. You can use 2-liter soda pop bottles or a 55-gallon water drum (with pump).

Thoroughly clean the container with dishwashing soap, rinse with hot water, and refill with tap water. Store the water in a cool, dark place and rotate it every 6 months. For instructional videos, click here and here.

Contact: Amy Dennison amymorris@gmail.com onesteptoprep.blogspot.com

 

Neighborhood Radio Net: Sunday, Oct 9, 4 pm: Participate in a GMRS Radio Net on the 2^nd Sunday at 4 pm. Eric & Amy Dennison will be available to answer questions about the GMRS radios. If you have a GMRS radio, we can do a test and help you get started using it. This month we’ll be talking about the protocol for radio check-ins during an emergency.

Zoom link: https://byui.zoom.us/s/4366630502 (Join as attendee)

Sept 2022: Emergency bathroom & hygiene

 

Neighborhood Emergency Preparedness

Sept 2022 – Emergency Bathroom & Hygiene

Last month we started making 72-hour kits by getting a backpack for each family member. This month we will add our first emergency supplies into our kits.

What is the very first thing you will need in a large emergency? You can survive about a week without food, and about 3 days without water. The very first thing you will need is a bathroom—you can only go a few hours without one, especially if you have children.

 

Week #1—Gather the Supplies

If you lose city water or sewer during an emergency, you will not be able to flush the toilet. Add these items into your 72-hour kit so you can make an emergency toilet.

·       2 5-gallon Bucket ($3 - $5)

·       Toilet Seat for 5-gallon Bucket (plastic, $13 - $15) (or pool noodle)

·       Garbage Bags (heavy duty kitchen)

·       Kitty Litter, Pine Bedding, or both (2 large bags, scented)

·       Toilet Paper (in plastic)

·       Paper Towels (in plastic)

·       Hand Wipes or Sanitizer

Week #2—Make an Emergency Toilet

For a 6 minute video about the 2 bucket system, click here.

Supply info here. (In an extended disaster, bury the bags rather than storing them as she says in the video.)

Line the 5-gallon bucket with 2 garbage bags. To control smells, put some kitty litter or pine bedding in at the start and after each use. Snap the plastic toilet seat on the bucket and close the lid (or use pool noodle).

If your home is otherwise habitable, you can line the toilet in your home instead of a 5-gallon bucket. Plug the toilet bowl hole with a flexible rubber ball before putting the bag in the toilet bowl. 

Replace the garbage bag at least once a day. Securely tie the top of the bag and bury or store outside.

Week #3—Gather Other Bathroom Items

Get personal hygiene supplies for each family member and put them in their individual 72-hour backpacks.

·       Tissues (in plastic)

·       Comb or Brush

·       Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Dental Floss

·       Mouthwash and Deodorant (travel size)

·       Wash Cloth

·       Mirror (small)

·       Feminine Hygiene Products

·       Cleaning Solution for Glasses/Contacts

·       Diapers, Baby Wipes, and Diaper Rash Cream

·       Litter Box and Poop Bags (for pets)

Week 4—Shave, Shower, and Laundry

Most people can easily go 3 days without shaving, showering, or doing laundry. However, if you would like to stay clean or prepare for longer emergencies, buy shave, shower, and laundry supplies for camping. For a 3 minute video, click here. (sorry about the audio…but the info is good.)

 

Extra Credit:

For more Utah-specific and in-depth videos on sanitation in a disaster, see the First Responder Mom videos and how to plug drain holes here.

 

Neighborhood Radio Net: Sunday, Sept 11: Participate in a GMRS Radio Net on the 2^nd Sunday (Sept 11th) at 4 pm). Eric & Amy Dennison will be available to answer questions about the GMRS radios. If you have a GMRS radio, we can do a test and help you get started using it.

Zoom link: https://byui.zoom.us/s/4366630502 (Join as attendee)

August 2022 – Start (or refresh) your 72-Hour Kit/Go Bag

 

Neighborhood Emergency Preparedness

August 2022 – 72-Hour Kit

Last month we finished making our general emergency plan. This month we’ll start the most important aspect of emergency preparedness, a 72-hour kit.

Week #1—Commit to Make a 72-hour Kit

During a large emergency (like a major earthquake) utilities, services, and even roads can be disrupted for an extended period of time. It can take three days for FEMA and the Red Cross to set up emergency shelters and distribute supplies.

During this time, you’ll need a 72-hour kit for each person in your household.

Ideas for what to put in kit:

-BYU Women’s Conference list: https://womensconference.byu.edu/sites/womensconference.ce.byu.edu/files/14d.pdf

- https://beready.utah.gov/family-preparedness/get-a-kit-family/

Week #2— Decide Where to Keep It

Based on your situation, decide where to store your 72-hour kit.

·       Camper or Motorhome—If you have a camper or motorhome and you store it on your property during the winter, then you could easily move into it if your home is not habitable.

·       Car—If the emergency happens while you are away from home, you will probably have your car with you. However, you need to insulate perishable items, like food and water, from hot and cold temperatures.

·       Garage or Shed—Because your home could be destroyed by fire or earthquake, you may want to keep emergency supplies in your garage or in a shed.

·       Home—Store it close to an exit, where you can quickly grab it if you need to leave in a hurry.

Week #3—Get a Backpack for Each Person

Because you may need to relocate to an emergency shelter or hotel, get a backpack, duffel bag, or suitcase for each person in your household. Make sure it is large enough for all your emergency supplies. If it is not waterproof, then store it off the floor so it will stay dry.

Week #4—Don’t Borrow from Your Kit

Have your 72-hour kit be for emergencies only. If you borrow items and forget to put them back, then you won’t have them when you need them the most.

Extra Credit—Buy a Premade Kit

If you can afford it, buying a premade 72-hour kit is a quick way to get some basic emergency supplies. If not, you can save money by making your own kit as we talk about it in the newsletters this year. However, don’t assume the kit contains everything you need, especially if it’s inexpensive. Also, make sure you know how to use all the items in your kit.

Neighborhood Radio Net: Sunday, August 14

Participate in a GMRS Radio Net on the 2^nd Sunday (August 14th) at 4 pm). The first several sessions will be on Zoom and will be informal. Eric & Amy Dennison will be available to answer questions about the GMRS radios. If you have a GMRS radio, we can do a test and help you get started using it.

Zoom link: https://byui.zoom.us/s/4366630502 (Join as attendee)