Preparedness: The Importance of Being Ready for the Unexpected

 

Preparedness: The Importance of Being Ready for the Unexpected

In today’s fast-paced world dominated by advanced technology, the internet, cell towers, and a reliable power supply, it’s easy to become complacent. We often lean heavily on these conveniences, and when natural disasters or man-made crises strike, panic sets in. Many people find themselves scrambling for essential supplies—food, water, and other necessities—only to realize they are unprepared. As an emergency responder, I have repeatedly witnessed individuals and families caught off guard, often resorting to desperate measures to secure what they need.

Reflecting on my childhood, I remember how my mother was often labeled a "worrywart." Growing up in Arizona, we faced strong thunderstorms that could knock out power for days. My mother always kept a stockpile of emergency supplies on hand, ensuring we were ready for anything. I vividly recall our routine of checking expiration dates and swapping out batteries in flashlights. When we moved to California, where earthquakes posed a significant threat, her preparedness adapted. Each vehicle had an emergency kit, and our home was stocked with supplies. I remember helping my dad secure bookcases to the walls and filling a large blue water tank in our backyard—500 gallons of water for emergencies. My childhood friends would tease us, calling us paranoid. However, when the 1992 earthquake struck, our preparedness paid off. We had ample food and water, and we were able to help those same friends who had laughed at us.

As a teenager, we moved to Colorado, where blizzards replaced earthquakes as the primary concern. Once again, my mother adapted our emergency kits to meet the new challenges we faced. Fast forward thirty years, and here I am, the owner of ProActive Emergency Solutions, drawing on my 20 years of experience in emergency services and 41 years of life with a prepared parent. My mission is to assist families and businesses that mirror those neighborhood kids who took preparedness for granted.

Throughout my career, I have always prioritized being prepared. Often referred to as “Mr. Prepared,” I recall my early days in search and rescue and firefighting. I carried essential tools—a flashlight, Gerber multitool, knife, and medical scissors—secured in holsters on my belt. While others mocked me, their laughter faded during a significant fire incident when we found ourselves trapped. My colleagues lacked escape tools, but I was able to use my gear to cut our way out. Thanks to my preparedness, we all escaped safely.

In law enforcement, I maintained backups for everything—firearms, magazines, flashlights, and handcuffs. Again, I faced ridicule until the night came when those who took their gear for granted found themselves in need. They would come to me for a flashlight to help search for suspects in the dark, and I was always ready to assist.

My civilian life mirrors this philosophy of preparedness. I adhere to the principle that "one is none, and two is one." I have backups of flashlights, knives, and emergency supplies throughout my home and vehicles. Each family member has their own bug-out bag, including my young son and our pets.

Returning to the issue of technology, if you search online for emergency checklists, you’ll find countless lists of common and useful items. However, this blog is different. It isn’t a typical checklist; instead, it’s designed to inspire you to think outside the box and prepare for the unexpected. While I recommend obtaining the basic essentials, I understand that, in today's economy, budgeting is crucial. Resist the temptation to cut corners by purchasing subpar items; instead, invest in reasonably priced gear that meets your needs. Consider building your emergency kit gradually. If disaster looms in the next week, urgency is key. Otherwise, take your time, buying a few items each month. By the end of the year, you will have assembled a well-rounded emergency kit.

I've found multiple uses for items and learned how to store them efficiently. Living in the South, hurricanes and tornadoes are commonplace, along with strong thunderstorms that can disrupt power. But these same conditions also offer excellent opportunities for camping, fishing, and hunting. I store items like propane cooking stoves, sleeping bags, and high-water suits in a separate bin labeled for recreational use. This way, during an emergency, I can quickly access these supplies. In another bin labeled “Emergency Supplies,” I keep critical items like flashlights, lanterns, headlamps, glow sticks, water purification tablets, NOAA radios, whistles, signal mirrors, fluorescent spray paint, and other essentials designated solely for emergencies.

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of essential items to consider for your emergency preparedness kit:

Flashlights: At least one per person, including a headlamp and handheld version for each.

Spare Batteries: Ensure you have the right size for each flashlight and additional batteries for other devices.

Solar Power Battery Banks: One per adult is recommended.

Glow Sticks: Various colors; green is the most visible.

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for a minimum of four days.

Water Containers: Consider 5-gallon jugs or water bobs for efficient storage.

Portable Water Showers: Useful for longer emergency periods.

Hygiene Supplies: Baby wipes and antibacterial wipes.

Basic First Aid Kits: Individual kits for each family member.

Trauma Kit: Supplies to manage severe injuries and stop blood loss.

Chainsaw and Hand Saw: Essential tools for clearing debris.

Manual Can Opener: Don’t overlook this simple yet critical item.

Garbage Bags: Multi-purpose utility.

Plastic Zip Ties: Various sizes, including heavy-duty options.

Dust Masks or N95 Masks: For respiratory protection.

NOAA Radio: Stay informed about weather conditions and emergencies.

CB or HAM Radio: Communication when cell towers fail.

Walkie Talkies: Reliable for local communication.

Non-Sparking Wrench and Pliers: For turning off utilities safely.

Cooking Equipment: Propane stove and charcoal grill for meal preparation.

Waterproof Matches or a Waterproof Container: Essential for fire starting.

Paper and Pencils: For notes and communication.

Mess Kit: Disposable utensils, cups, and plates.

Feminine Products: Always an essential.

Sleeping Bags: Appropriate for your local climate, with extra blankets if needed.

Clothing: Three days' worth, including sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate gear.

Rain Gear: Ponchos, rain boots, and waterproof bags.

Important Family Documents: Store in a waterproof container.

Prescription Medications and Glasses: Ensure you have an adequate supply.

Infant Formula and Diapers: If applicable.

Toilet Paper: Packaged securely for hygiene.

Battery-Operated or Solar-Powered Lanterns: For light during outages.

Generator: A valuable asset for longer power outages.

By taking the time to prepare, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the unexpected. My journey from a child learning about preparedness to the owner of ProActive Emergency Solutions has shown me the value of being ready for any situation. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start building your emergency preparedness kit today!