Sanitation

If there was an earthquake or other disaster what would you do for sanitation?

This can be a very serious problem and needs to be prepared for when you cannot use your home toilet or there is no running water or trash pickups.

The items you will need for a toilet:

1. 5 gallon plastic container (like paint comes in) with a tight fitting lid and an improvised toilet seat or a portable plastic toilet you can purchase from a survival supply store like Majors at 435 W Alondra Blvd, Gardena (310-324-8855) or check out their online website at www.majorsurplus.com. They cost about $20-$40. You can also purchase a portable toilet with 2 enzyme packets from emergencyessentials.com for about $14.95


 
Note: If you have small children that use a child's potty chair, you might want to purchase one to keep with the one above.


2. Enzyme 300 Packets--You will need several of these. They break down the waste bacteria like in the portable toilet. You can purchase them from emergencyessentials.com for 60 cents a packet. 








Or, you can purchase Rid-X Septic Tank Treatment. The powder is about $10 a box at Walmart. 

Note: You sprinkle a little of the Enzyme 300 Packet or the Rid-X powder on the waste to break down the bacteria. 
 

3. Large sturdy black plastic trash bags (biodegradable are best so you can bury them) that can hold weight (size to fit in the 5 gallon plastic container). You can purchase large sturdy black plastic trash bags at most large box stores like Costco and Sam's Club.





 



4. Large trash container with a tight fighting lid to empty the small container (#1 above) into until you can bury the refuse.






5. Cat litter (several bags), the clotting kind, a serrated large spoon.You can purchase this at discount stores like the 99 Cent Store or Dollar Tree or Dollar General.








6. Toilet paper--purchase enough for your family for 1-3 months supply. Costco and Sam's Club or other big box stores usually have the best prices for several rolls.











7. Paper towels 

 


8. Baby wipes--Purchase several packets or at the big box stores like Costco and Sam's Club. You can purchase individual packets of about 80 sheets at discount stores like the 99 Cent Store, the Dollar Tree, Dollar General, etc. 














6. Disinfectant (Bleach, Lysol spray and hand sanitizer)--
You will need items to clean up properly.

7. Privacy shelter--You can purchase this at emerencyessentials.com for $89.95. Or, construct your own with a large blanket or ex-large plastic tarp, rope, clothes pins, duct tape, nails and hammer.

How to use a portable toilet

1) Line the plastic portable toilet with a large sturdy (heavy) black trash bag.
2) Place a layer of cat litter in the bottom the trash bag.
3) Once someone uses the toilet, only bow movements, sprinkle with some of the enzyme 300 or the Rid-X
4) Cover with the lid tightly when not in use.
5) Continue this process until the portable toilet is about half full.
6) Remove the trash bag careful so as to not tear it.
7) If there is no trash pick up, bury the bag. See below how to bury it.
8) If you can use your in door home toilet, but there is no water to flush with, use the same process.    

Tip on burying refuse--Important

It must be buried 12-24 inches underground to prevent animals and rodents from digging it up and spreading disease.

Tips on sanitation
 
Have a good reserve of heavy black plastic bags, newspapers, toilet paper, soap and disinfectant.

You want to use as little water as possible.

Bury all waist appropriately as mentioned above. This also goes for food waist. There will probably not be any trash pickups for quite awhile.

Updated--February 2014

Shelter

The objective of shelter is to provide emergency housing. It is extremely important to be physically protected from nature's weather elements. They are many types of shelter that can easily be included in your 72 Hour Kit. You may also want to consider other shelter that can be used if you are not able to occupy your home due to damages or need to leave the area.

You may want to consider a family tent, backpackers tent, tube tent, rain ponchos, garbage bags, nylon rope or cord, duct tape, space blankets and space sleeping bags.

I find great sales prices for tents and sleeping bags at Big 5. Another great place is Major Survival Surplus Discount Store in Gardena. Watch for end of the summer sales for these items at department and sporting goods stores.

Bedding:

1. Bedding should be warm, lightweight, comfortable, waterproof and compact.

2. Sleeping bags-they should be at least 2 1/2 pounds. I find great buys at Big 5. We purchased 3 pound bags on sales for $17. Surprisingly, they are not too heavy to carry.



3. Insulation-you will need insulation under your sleeping bag to protect you from the cold ground. You can purchase a 3/8 inch foam pads (best and gives you extra comfort too) or put a plastic ground cloth under your bag. You can also use newspaper, leaves or pine boughs for insulation.

4. Blankets-they can be used to make a bed roll but they are usually not as comfortable nor as worm as a sleeping bag. Wool blankets are the best since they retain their warming ability. The only bad part is that blankets are very heavy and bulky. Check out the Boy Scout handbook how to make a bed from blankets.


5. Space blanket or bag (aluminum coated Mylar)-they are very efficient for retaining body heat and are a must for every 72 Hour Kit. They will keep you warm during the night in cold winter weather to keep you alive. Being plastic, they are impervious to moisture. They are good for keeping the rain out but they also retain sweat and condensation from your breath. You can also use them during the day to protect you from rain, sun and to retain body warmth.


Tents:

Purchase a tent to fit your family size. We purchased a 3 man tent from Big 5 on sales for about $30. They have good sales each week, especially this time of year. Also check with other sporting/camping stores, survival surplus stores, Costco and Sam's Club.

See the Boy Scout manual or Young Women's Camp manual on how to build different types of shelters. Both of these books have good sources of information to keep with your emergency supplies.

Click here to see different ways to make shelter in the wilderness. You never know when you might need to know how to do this. 

Clothing:

Include in your kits one change of clothing and footwear, check it periodically to make sure they still fit, especially for children and teenagers. Anticipate severe weather conditions. Try to avoid wearing cotton clothing since it retains water, which spreads over the entire body, causing loss of body heat at a great rate. Wet inter clothing causes freezing.



Wool clothing is the best: natural insulator that keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, can withstand rugged and tough wear, repels water (will keep the body warm even though wet), and dries from the inside out. Keep two pairs of wool socks, one for wearing and one for keeping your feet warm while sleeping.

Fuel:

Every family member should have fire starting materials and know how to start a fire. These should be assembles into a kit and labeled as "fire starting kit". Teach all family members how to use them, safety, and practice at home or while camping.



This blog posting is complete! Updated June 2015

Cooking, Heating, and Lighting In An Emergency

How will you cook, heat and have light in an emergency situation?

In an emergency situation there may be no electricity or gas to heat our homes, give us light at night and the ability to cook. Our homes may also be uninhabitable, causing us to seek shelter outside or elsewhere. Here are some ideas for heating, lighting and cooking in this type of emergency.

Cooking:

Conserving fuel:

1. To conserve your cooking fuel storage needs, always do your emergency cooking in the most efficient manner possible.

2. Don’t boil more water than you need, extinguish the fire as soon as you finished, plan your meals ahead of time to consolidate as much cooking as possible, during the winter cook on top of your heating unit while heating your home, and cook in a pressure cooker or other fuel efficient container as much as possible.

3. Keep enough fuel to provide outdoor cooking for at least 7-10 days, possible more.


Types of cooking products/equipment and heating:

1. Pressure cooker-To conserve your cooking fuel storage needs always do your emergency cooking in the most efficient manner possible. Don’t boil more water than you need, extinguish the fire as soon as you finished, plan your meals ahead of time to consolidate as much cooking as possible, during the winter cook on top of your heating unit while heating your home, and cook in a pressure cooker or other fuel efficient container as much as possible. Keep enough fuel to provide outdoor cooking for at least 7-10 days.

2. Matches-Store matches in a waterproof airtight tin with each piece of equipment that must be lit with a flame. You can purchase waterproof/windproof matches from a survival surplus or camping stores or online.
3. Sterno-Sterno Fuel a jellied petroleum product, is an excellent source of fuel for inclusion in your back pack as part of your 72 hour kit. Sterno is very light weight and easily ignited with a match or a spark from flint and steel but is not explosive. It is also safe for use indoors.

4. Sterno Stove-A Sterno Stove can be purchased at any sporting goods store and will retail between $3 and $8, depending upon the model you choose. They fold up into a very small, compact unit ideal for carrying in a pack. The fuel is readily available at all sporting goods stores and many drug stores. One can of Sterno fuel, about the diameter of a can of tuna fish and twice as high, will allow you to cook six meals if used frugally. Chafing dishes and fondue pots can also be used with Sterno.




Note: Sterno is not without some problems. It will evaporate very easily, even when the lid is securely fastened. If you use Sterno in your 72 hour kit you should check it every six to eight months to insure that it has not evaporated beyond the point of usage. Because of this problem it is not a good fuel for long-term storage. It is a very expensive fuel to use compared to others fuel available, but is extremely convenient and portable.

4. Coleman fuel (white gas)-When used with a Coleman stove this is another excellent and convenient fuel for cooking. It is not as portable nor as lightweight as Sterno, but produces a much greater BTU value. Like Sterno, Coleman fuel has a tendency to evaporate even when the container is tightly sealed so it is not a good fuel for long-term storage. Unlike Sterno, however, it is highly volatile; it will explode under the right conditions and should therefore never be stored in the home. Because of its highly flammable nature great care should always be exercised when lighting stoves and lanterns that use Coleman fuel. Many serious burns have been caused by carelessness with this product. Always store Coleman fuel in the garage or shed, out of doors.

5. Coleman stove-Can be purchased at any camping or survival surplus store.

6. Portable one burner stove and BU-6 Butane Fuel (can)-This small stove is great for cooking on and stores easily. You can purchased the butane one burner stove and fuel cans at Marukai on Artesia in Gardena for $12.00 and fuel cans for 4 for $5.00 or $1.25 each can. When we bought the butane fuel cans they were about $1 each can, 3-4 come together. You can use this stove in your house, but do not leave unattended. I cooked on this type of stove for 3 months in our dinning room while the kitchen was being remodeled.

7. Charcoal-Charcoal is the least expensive fuel per BTU that the average family can store.

Remember that it must always be used out of doors because of the vast amounts of poisonous carbon monoxide it produces. Charcoal will store for extended period of time if it is stored in air tight containers. It readily absorbs moisture from the surrounding air so do not store it in the paper bags it comes in for more than a few months or it may be difficult to light. Transfer it to airtight metal or plastic containers and it will keep almost forever.

Fifty or sixty dollars worth of charcoal will provide all the cooking fuel a family will need for an entire year if used sparingly. The best time to buy briquettes inexpensively is at the end of the summer. Broken or torn bags of briquettes are usually sold at a big discount. You will also want to store a small amount of charcoal lighter fluid (or kerosene). Newspapers will also provide an excellent ignition source for charcoal when used in a funnel type of lighting device.

You can purchase charcoal briquettes that all you have to do is light them, they are soaked in lighter fluid.
To light charcoal using newspapers use two or three sheets, crumpled up, and a #10 tin can. Cut both ends out of the can. Punch holes every two inches around the lower edge of the can with a punch-type can opener (for opening juice cans). Set the can down so the punches holes are on the bottom. Place the crumpled newspaper in the bottom of the can and place the charcoal briquettes on top of the newspaper. Lift the can slightly and light the newspaper. Prop a small rock under the bottom edge of the can to create a a good draft. The briquettes will be ready to use in about 20-30 minutes. When the coals are ready remove the chimney and place them in your cooker. Never place burning charcoal directly on concrete or cement because the heat will crack it. A wheelbarrow or old metal garbage can lid makes an excellent container for this type of fire.

One of the nice things about charcoal is that you can regulate the heat you will receive from them. Each briquette will produce about 40 degrees of heat. If you are baking bread, for example, and need 400 degrees of heat for your oven, simply use ten briquettes.

To conserve heat and thereby get the maximum heat value from your charcoal you must learn to funnel the heat where you want it rather than letting it dissipate into the air around you. One excellent way to do this is to cook inside a cardboard oven. Take a cardboard box, about the size of an orange crate, and cover it with aluminum foil inside and out. Be sure that the shiny side is visible so that maximum reflectivity is achieved. Turn the box on its side so that the opening is no longer on the top but is on the side. Place some small bricks or other noncombustible material inside upon which you can rest a cookie sheet about two or three inches above the bottom of the box. Place ten burning charcoal briquettes between the bricks (if you need 400 degrees), place the support for your cooking vessels, and then place your bread pans or whatever else you are using on top of the cookie sheet. Prop a foil-covered cardboard lid over the open side, leaving a large crack for air to get in (charcoal needs a lot of air to burn) and bake your bread, cake, cookies, etc. just like you would in your regular oven. Your results will amaze you.

To make your own charcoal, select twigs, limbs, and branches of fruit, nut and other hardwood trees; black walnuts and peach or apricot pits may also be used. Cut wood into desired size, place in a large can which has a few holes punched in it, put a lid on the can and place the can in a hot fire. When the flames from the holes in the can turn yellow-red, remove the can from the fire and allow it to cool. Store the briquettes in a moisture-proof container. Burn charcoal only in a well-ventilated area.

Note: Items above (1,2,3,4,5,7) came from "Homeland Security News"

8. Dutch Ovens-our ancestors used Dutch Ovens to cook in. You can cook just about anything in one of them. Get a good cooking booking on cooking with a Dutch Ovens. You can even bake a Cherry Upside Down Cake in them. You just put hot charcoal briquettes on the bottom and the top of the lid and let it cook. I found the best prices at the Majors Surplus store in Gardena, but check around. They can run from $25 -$80, depending on the size and type. I spent $25 for ours on sales at Majors. Check around for sales.

9. Outdoor fire pits-A great way to cook and for heat. You will need to store wood, but make sure you store away from your house and garage because this will cause termites in the structures.


10. Trioxane Fuel Bars- Each bar burns a clean, nontoxic blue flame for 15 minutes. Great for 72 Hour Kits, and camping. Us them to heat up a nice cup of hot chocolate or soup, or start a fire when fuel is otherwise unavailable. They come 3 in a box for about $2.50. I found them on beprepared.com (Emergency Essentials). They also have the waterproof/windproof matches for $2.95 a box. Great site to check out.




11. Portable Outdoor Fireplace. . . Love this idea

What a great idea, and it is portable. Great for emergency preparedness if you cannot cook in your conventional oven in the house. This can be moved around anywhere in your yard. Here's how you construct it:

1) Use standard size cement blocks you can purchase at your local home center
2) Do not use mortar, that way it is portable
3) Recycled grill racks (from an old BBQ)
4) Collect tender and wood for the fire or you can use charcoal in a metal pan
5) Make sure you clear the ground area of all dry foliage and grass
6) Construct as shown in the photo

(Mother Earth News, created by Ronnie Norwood)
  
Make your own solar oven--easy!

Great in an emergency situation when you cannot use your conventional oven. Yes, it takes longer to cook things, but it really does work and a lot less expensive than the more popular solar oven that can cost from $250-$400.

Supplies needed:

A reflective accordion-folding car sunshade
A cake rack (or wire frame or grill)
12 cm. (4 1/2 inches) of Velcro
Black pot
Bucket or plastic wastebasket
A plastic baking bag

For instructions of how to make your own solar oven and how to use it click here.  
Heating:

1. In the house-If you are able to stay in your house and it is cold outside, keep all windows and doors shut and keep them insulated. Shut all blinds and curtains to keep the cold out. Do not sue charcoal BBQ to heat your house inside, this will cause death (See charcoal above).

2. Outside-Use your outdoor fire pit or clear a safe area to build a wood fire. Make sure the fire is out before leaving it. Never leave an open fire unattended. Space blankets will keep you warm, keep them in your 72 Hour Kits and car.

3. Fireplaces: A great source of heat in your home. Make sure to maintain your fireplaces so they work properly. Keep extra wood on hand but stored away from any structures to avoid termite damage. You can make logs by rolling newspaper and magazines very tightly and tying with a string.

Lighting: (Most of the alternatives require a fire or flame, so use caution.)

1. Candles-Keep a large supply of candles and several candle holders in your emergency supplies along with waterproof/windproof matches. Keep the matches in a separate tin container/can. White or light colored candles burn brighter than dark candles. Caution: Candles are extremely dangerous indoors because of the high fire danger, especially around children. Do not leave a burring candle unattended. DO NOT light if you smell a gas leak or suspect one.

2. Flashlights-Keep a flashlight in each room near the bed in case the lights are out. Keep one in your car, a small one in your purse and one in your desk at work. I had a friend you was in an earthquake several years ago while at work. All the lights were out and she could not see anything. She had to crawl out of the office and building over objects that cut her legs and hands. Keep extra batteries with the flashlights. Keep batteries in the freezer to prolong their time.

Batteries: Alkaline batteries are the best. Store them in a cool location and in an airtight container. These batteries should be expected to store for three to five years. Check the expiration date on the batteries or mark with a date it not there. The problem with batteries is that they run down fast during use. Lithium batteries will store for about twice as long as alkaline batteries (about ten years).

3. Cyalume Sticks (light sticks)-Keep light sticks between your mattress and the box spring, in your purse, at work in your desk, in your car to help you see in the dark in the event of an earthquake or loss of electricity. These are the safest form of indoor lighting available. They can be purchased at most sporting/camping goods stores and survival surplus stores, very inexpensively. They are a plastic stick about four inches in length and a half inch in diameter. To activate them, simply bend them until the glass tube inside them breaks, then shake to mixed the chemicals inside and it will glow a bright green light for up to eight hours.

4. Propane, Coleman Lanterns and Battery Operated Lanterns-Have camping propane, Coleman lanterns, and battery operated lanterns on hand in case you lose your electricity. You can purchase these at camping/sporting stores and survival surplus stores. I bought some really cool battery operated lanterns at Bed, Bath and Beyond on sale for $10 each. Caution should be used in filling and light Coleman lanterns because the fuel is highly volatile and a flash type fire (like turning on a flashlight or regular house light switch if gas might be leaking after an earthquake) is easy to set off. Propane is much safer. It is not as explosive and does not burn quite a hot. A double mantle lantern gives off as much light as two 100-watt light bulbs. Either propane or Coleman fuel type lanterns are very reliable and should be an integral part of your emergency preparedness supplies. Be sure to store plenty of extra mantles and matches. When using fuel type lanterns make sure your home is well ventilated. 

5. Improvised Tent Lamp: Great idea on how to make your own lamp. Click here to see how to make it. 




6. Kerosene lamps: They are an excellent source of light and will burn for approximately 45 hours on a quart of fuel. They burn bright and are inexpensive to use. The main problem with using them is failure to properly trim the wicks and using the wrong size chimney. Wicks should be trimmed in an arch, a "V", an "A" or straight across the top. Failure to properly trim and maintain the wicks will result in smoke and poor light. Be sure to store extra wicks, chimneys and mantles.

7. Generators: Every home should have a generator. You can purchase small portable ones that will keep at least your refrigerator and a couple of lights going. We purchased one on sale at Harbor Freight with a coupon in the paper (they run it often) for about $90. You will need to store gasoline to run the generator. Caution: Only store gasoline in an approved type gasoline container and store from the house in a cool place (not the direct sunlight).

8. Solar Fuel Less Generators: These are great but more expensive. They get their power from solar panels. Best thing about them is they require no gas and you can use them safely inside your home. Check out the website links below for information and three great companies that offer them.

http://www.suntrapsolutions.com/

http://www.offgridsolargenerators.com/category-s/1814.htm

http://jimbakkershow.com/blog/2012/03/23/introducing-the-new-fuel-less-generator/

Caution: Above all, your home and family must be protected from fire by your actions. Study and understand the manuals that go along with any type of equipment/appliances used for cooking, heating and lighting. Do not go to sleep with any invented burning device in your home. Your family might not wake up. Whatever you store, store it safely and legally in an emergency, survival may cause you to make decisions that are not in the best regard to safety. Your family's lives depend on you making wise choices and understand the equipment you are using.
Consider carefully how you will provide fuel for your family for cooking, heating and lighting during times of emergency. Next to food, water and shelter, energy is the most important item you can store.

Updated 04/2014

First-aid Kit

Each family should have a First-aid Kit in their home, car and 72 Hour Family Kit. Each 72 Hour Personal Kit (backpack) should have a small/Mini one. You should also have a First-aid Manuel and be familiar with First-aid techniques. Keep it with your First-aid Kit. It is also a good idea to have a Mini First-aid in your purchase and school packback.

You can purchase a good First-aid Kit online, in your local stores, discount centers like Costco and Sam's Club, Major Survivor Surplus Discount Warehouse, or you can put one together yourself.

You local American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer First-aid and CPR (Certification) classes for a fee.

Your First-aid Kit should include the following:

Consecrated Oil (small bottle for Priesthood Blessings)

Therapeutic Items:

Ibuprofen (200 mg)
Children's Ibuprofen (Motrin tablets and liquid)
Aspirin (325 mg)
Tylenol (325 or 500 mg)
Children's Tylenol (tablets and liquid)
Benadrly (25 mg)
Mineral Oil, Unscented
Metamucil (fiber)
Neosporin (Triple Antibiotic Ointement)
Silvadene
Betadine Solution
Antiseptic soap
Sunscreen (25-50)
Blistik (SPF 10)
Eyewash
Saline I.V. bag and tubing (may not be able to purchase this)
Peptobismol
1% Hydrocortisone Ointment
Milk of Magnesia
Current Prescription Medications
Allergy medications
Ashma medications
Cold medications
Other medications you and your fmaily use

Injury Treatment Items:

Alcohol
Hydrogen Proxide
Bandaids (different types and sizes)
Elastic wrap (2 in.)
Sterile Gauze pads (different sizes)
Sterile Roll of Gauze
Roll of Adhesive Tape
Small Scissors
Tweezers
Finger Splints (tongue depressers for great)
Cotton Swabs
Alcohol Prep pads
Povidone Iodine Prep pads
Surgical Examination Gloves (a few pair)
Triangualr Bandage or scraf (36 in x 36 in x 51 in)
Instant Hot Packs
Instant Ice Packs
Sting Relief Pads (for insect bites, smashing up an aspirin with a small amount of water to make
a paste also works)
First-aid Manuel
Old Magazine (if you have room, makes a good splint for broken arms and legs)

Personal Information:

Each person should have a picture of themselves and the following information on a 3x5 card and place it in the kit and their 72 Hour Kit: Name, sex, date of birth, current medications, allergies, medical and surgical history, name of doctor and phone number, health insurance information.

Mini First-aid Ket in small plastic or film container:

1 alcohol swab pad
1 antiseptic towelette
2 Tylenol (age appropriate)
3 bandaids
2 safety pins
Waterproof matches
Needle with thread
Quarter in lid for phone call

Practice First-aid techniques yourself and with your family so when an emergency situation comes up you/they will know what to do. Family Home Evening is great time to do this.

This blog posting is complete!

What to do before, during and after an earthquake

Living in California we are constantly aware of the potential of an earthquake creating damage and creating a dangerous conditions. We need to properly prepare to avoid greater personal damage than necessary. Below are things that may help you survive an earthquake in a better way.

"The best survival is a prepared survival." (American Red Cross)

BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE:

Prepare you family:

• Know the safe spots in each rooms: Against inside walls, under sturdy tables, desks or supported doorways. During an earthquake it will not be easy to move around.


• Know the danger spots: Windows, mirrors, hanging objects, bookshelves, and fireplaces.


• Practice drills (duck, cover and hold) 4 times a year or more often if small children. Physically place yourself in safe locations. Have an evacuation plan and safe meeting place outside. Practice evacuating. Establish all the possible ways to exit your house. Keep those area clear.


• Know the locations of the nearest fire and police stations.


• Learn First Aid and CPR from the American Red Cross or another reputable place. Teach one-two first-aid skills to a family members once a week in Family Home Evening.


• Learn how to shut off the gas, water and electricity. Mark those areas with a noticeable water proof red tag. Make sure you have the proper shut-off wrench duck taped to the main water and gas shut off values. Teach all family members how to do this.


• Know your children's school policy if there is an earthquake.


• Have a contact person (family or friend) outside of the state that each family member can report to if separated. Every family member should know their name and phone number. Make sure you children's school and daycare provider have this information on file. Put in your children's Emergency Prepared kits at school.


• If you have a family member who does not speak English, prepare and emergency card written in English indicating that person's identifications, address and any special needs such as medications or allergies. Tell that person to keep the card with them at all times.


• Before an earthquake occurs, call your local Red Cross chapter and Office of Emergency Services to find out about their plans for emergency shelters and temporary medical centers in case of such a disaster. Also, contact your Ward Bishopric for their Emergency Preparedness plan.


• Include your babysitter and house hold help in your plans.


• Keep an extra pair of eyeglasses and house car keys on hand.


• Keep a whistle and flashlight or light sticks by each bed in cause you need to call out for help and to see in the dark.


• Keep extra cash (in small bills) and change. If electricity is out, you will not be able to use an ATM.


• Tips for preparing Infants and Toddlers: Keep an extra Diaper Bag in the car and 72 Hour supplies for your babies--extra water, formula, bottles, food, juices, clothing, disposable diapers, baby wipes and prescribed medications.


• Tips for preschool and school-age children: Show children the safest places to be in each room when an earthquake hits. Also show them all possible exits from each room. Use sturdy tables to teach children to Duck, Cover and Hold. Teach children what to do wherever they are during an earthquake (at school, in a tall building, outdoors and church). Make sure children's emergency cards at school are up to date. Although children should not turn off any utilities valves, it's important that they know what gas smells like. Advise children to tell an adult if they smell gas after an earthquake.


• Tips for the Elderly and Physically Challenged: 1) Eliminate hazards-make it easy as possible to quickly get under a sturdy table or desk for protection. Identify doorways that do not have doors in which you can take cover. 2) Keep a list of medications, allergies, special equipment, names and numbers of doctors, pharmacists and family members. Make sure you have this list with you at all times. 3) Keep an extra pair of eyeglasses and medication with emergency supplies. 4) Keep walking aids near you at all times. Have extra walking aids in different rooms of the house. 5) Make sure you have a whistle to signal for help. 6) Keep extra batteries for hearing aids with your emergency supplies. Remember to replace them annually. 7) Keep extra emergency supplies at your bedside and by your wheelchair. 8) Find two people you trust who will check on you after an earthquake. Tell them your special needs. Show them how to operate any equipment you use. Show them where your emergency supplies are kept. Give them a spare key. 9) During an earthquake--1) If you are in bed or sitting down, do not get up. If you are in bed or out of your wheelchair, stay where you are and cover your head and neck. If in a wheelchair go into a doorway that doesn't have a door. If you are standing, duck and cover or sit down. You could be thrown to the floor if you are standing. 2) Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least 3 days. 3) Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. For your own safety, cooperate fully with public safety officials and instructions. 4) Prepare for aftershocks. 5) If you evacuate, leave a message at your home telling family members and others where you can be found.


• Tips for Pet Owners: 1) Store enough food and water for at least 72 hours, preferably for one week. Prepare a shelter or evacuation kit for your pet(s), including unbreakable dish, veterinarian records, a restraint (leash or pet carrier) and medications with instructions. 2) Keep your pet's ID tag up-to-date. 3) Make sure nothing can fall on your pet. 4) Arrange for a neighbor to take care of your pet if you are not able to get home after an earthquake.

Prepare your homes:

• Learn how to shut off the gas, water and electricity (but only if lines are damaged). Mark those areas with a noticeable water proof red tag. Make sure you have the proper shut-off wrench duck taped to the main water and gas shut-off valves. Teach all family members how to do this.


• Secure water heater and appliances to wall studs which move enough to rupture lines. You can purchase the water heater and appliance earthquake straps at Home Depot, Lowe's and other home improvement stores. Also check online.


• Secure hanging plants and heavy picture frames or mirrors (especially over beds). Close drapes and blinds over windows at night.


• Put latches on cabinet doors to hold closed during shaking.


• Secure TV's, VCR's, DVD players, Stereo equipment so they do not fly off during shaking. These items become weapons with flying at you. You can purchase the earthquake straps at home improvement stores and online.


• Secure breakable objects like vases, collectibles, figurines, etc with earthquake putty to avoid them flying around. These items become weapons when flying at you. Check with local home improvement stores and online.


• Keep hallways clear. It is usually one of the safest places to be during an earthquake.


• Stay away from kitchens and garages, which tend to be the most dangerous places because of the many items kept there.


• Keep flammable or hazardous liquids such as paints, pest sprays or cleaning products in the garage or outside shed (out of children's reach).


• Maintain emergency supplies for a 72 hours period (I say two weeks): Example-food, water, and other supplies, including flashlights, portable battery operated radio, extra batteries, medications, first-aid kits, fire extinguisher, copies of important documents in a water proof bag, emergency numbers.


• Keep copies of important documents in your 72 Hour Kit, at home, safe deposit box, work or with a relative or friend outside of the state. Keep the original documents in a safe secure place.


• Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and flashlight near each family members bed. Some keep the light sticks between the mattresses.


• Move heavier items to lover shelf in closets and cupboards.


• Take photos and a video of inside each room of your house (furniture, valuable items, inside cupboards, closets and drawers, upgrades to your house like granite counter tops, custom cabinets, etc). This is for insurance purposes. Keep a copy at home, work and with a relative or friend in another state).


• Tips for preparing children (Infants, toddlers, preschool and school-age children): Cribs should be placed away from windows and tall, unsecured bookcases and shelves that could slide or topple. Cribs should be secured also to prevent them from rolling in front of the door blocking entrance to the room. Store strollers, wagons, blankets and cribs with appropriate wheels to evacuate infants, if necessary. Install pumper pads in cribs or bassinets to protect babies during the shaking. Install latches on all cupboards in the child's room so that nothing can fall on your baby during an earthquake.


• Tip for the Elderly and Physically Challenged: 1) Eliminate hazards. Make it as easy as possible to quickly get under a sturdy table or desk for protection. 2) Anchor special equipment such as telephones and life support systems. Fasten tanks of gas, such as oxygen, to the wall. 3) Put a security light in each room. these lights plug into any outlet and light up automatically if there is a loss of electricity. They continue operating automatically for 4-6 hours, and they can be turned off by hand in an emergency. 4) During an earthquake (see above).

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE:

• STAY CALM! Reassure others.


• If indoors, stay there. Get under a sturdy table or desk and hold on. Stay away from windows or glass dividers.


• If in bed, stay there, cover your head with the blankets.


• If outside, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, and power lines.


• If driving, pull your car to the side of the road if possible and stop. Drive away from underpasses/overpasses. Remain inside the car until the shaking is over.


• If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Move to an interior wall or get under a sturdy table or desk. Do not use the elevator, even after the shaking has stopped, use the exit stairs only. Do not run outside.


• If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the doors or exits.


• Tips for Pet Owners: 1) Do not try to hold onto your pet during the shaking. Animals will instinctively protect themselves and hide where they're safe. If you get in their way, even the nicest pets can turn on you. 2) Be patient with your pets after an earthquake. They get stressed just like people and need time to readjust. They may disappear for some time, but they generally show up again when things have calmed down. 3) If you have outdoor pets, you should keep them indoors until the aftershocks have subsided and they have calmed down. 4) If you must evacuate your home, leave your pet secured in a safe place. Pets will not be allowed at shelters. Be sure to leave plenty of clean water and food. If possible, visit your pet daily until you can return home. Sometimes pet evacuation centers are set up to care for your pets while you are away from home.

AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE/SHAKING HAS STOPPED:

• Check for all injuries. Provide first-aid. Do not move seriously injured unless in immediate danger.


• Do not use the telephone (land lines or cell phones) unless there is a severe injury or fire. Hang up telephone if off the hook.


• Check for safety--check for gas, water and sewage breaks/leaks; check for downed electric lines and shorts,; turn off appropriate utilities; check for building damage and potential safety problems during aftershocks such as cracks around chimney and foundation.


• Check for fires. Put out with a fire extinguisher.


• Do not light a match or turn on light switch. Use a flashlight.


• Clean up dangerous spills and hazardous materials.


• Wear sturdy shoes.


• Turn on radio and listen for instructions form public safety agencies. Cooperate fully with public safety officials. KORG 1190 AM * KWIZ 96.7 FM * KWIZ 1480 AM-Spanish


• Check food and water supplies. Emergency water may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes, toilet tanks, canned vegetables and stored water containers.


• Do not go without food or water too long: avoid opened containers near shattered glass.


• Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep streets clear.


• Be prepared for aftershocks. Don't panic, stay calm and lend a hand to others.


• Stay out of dangerous areas--never go to the beach to watch for a tsunami (giant sea waves).


• Check on neighbors.

Remember: THE BEST THING TO DO IS "STAY CALM"!

14 survival items to keep on hand (Amercian Red Cross suggestion)

"1. Portable radio with extra batteries

2. Flashlight with extra batteries

3. First Aid Kit--including specific medications needed for household members

4. First Aid Book

5. Fire Extinguisher

6. Adjustable wrench for turning off gas and water

7. Smoke detectors properly installed

8. Portable fire escape ladder for homes/apartments with multiple floors

9. Bottled water--sufficient for the number of members in your household for two weeks

10. Canned and dried foods sufficient for a week for each member of your household. Note: Both water and food should be rotated into normal meals of household so as to keep freshness

11. Non-electric can opener

12. Portable stove such as butane or charcoal. Note: Use of such stoves should not take place until it is determined that there is no gas leak in the area. Charcoal should be burned only out of doors. Use of charcoal indoors will lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

13. Matches

14. Telephone numbers of police, fire and doctor"

Also, some type of shelter if you cannot stay in your house due to damages.

WHAT TO DO AND NOT DO DURING A DISASTER

DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS A NATURAL DISASTER OR ANY TYPE OF DISASTER?

WHEN THERE IS A DISASTER WE NEED TO REMEMBER AND DO THE FOLLOWING:

MOST IMPORTANT THING--STAY CALM AND PUT YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN INTO ACTION!!!!!!!!!

Natural disasters, or any type of disaster, are a frightening experience to live through. Since you cannot prevent them your only alternative is to be as prepared as possible if they do occur by having your 72 Hour Emergency Kits and Family Bag ready, extra food and water stored in a safe place, items to build a shelter (with sleeping bags or blankets) and a way to cook. These simple tips can help you if you ever find yourself in this situation. Read them, print them out and put a copy in your 72 Hour Emergency Kit or Family Bag for reference, your computer may not be available to look them up at the time. Be aware of your surroundings and what you should and should not do to protect yourself and your family.

1. Check for any injuries first. Give first-aid or get help for the most serious injuries first. If someone is trapped do not attempt to remove them, they could be injured more or you could be injured from falling objects. If possible, wait for professional help. If the person is in further danger, then remove them carefully and quickly to a safer place.

Remember that children, seniors and the handicapped will take longer to evacuate if necessary. Children will become stressed quickly. Assure them you are doing everything you can to protect them. The 72 Hour Emergency Stressor Kit comes in handy here to occupy them.

2. Check for damages - If a disaster occurs while you are at home, check for damages using a flashlight. Do not light matches, candles or turn on the electrical switches until you check for gas leaks. Check for fire hazards, broken glass, unstable objects, and other household hazards. Stay away from downed power lines and wear long-sleeve shirts, long pants and sturdy shoes if possible for protection. Do not try to pass or go around them, especially down power lines. Check the house foundation and for any major cracks in the walls. Do not stay in the house if the house is off the foundation, the foundation is damaged for their are major cracks in the walls.

3. Check utilities - Check for water and gas leaks. Places to check include your water heater, stove and heater. Leave natural gas service ON unless local officials advise you otherwise or you smell gas. Sniff for gas leaks, start at the water heater, then the stove, then the heater. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas value, open windows, and get everyone outside quickly. Do not turn off the gas if there are no gas leaks detected--You may need gas for heating and cooking, only a professional can restore gas service in your home once it's been turned off. In a disaster situation it could take weeks before a professional can turn it back on. But be safe, if you smell gas, turn it off at the main gas meter. Keep a Gas Shut-off Wrench/Tool strapped to your meter or close by for easy access. Do not light matches, candles or turn on electrical switches to check for gas leaks, use a flashlight. Gas leaks can be detected by a "rotten-egg-like" smell.

Note: You can purchase a Gas Shut-off Wrench/Tool at Home Depot, Lowe's, other hardware or home improvement stores and online. Cost, about $5.00.

4. Water heater - Turn off the water value where the water goes into the water tank to prevent the water from becoming contaminated. The water in the tank can be used to wash with and drink, and cook with if filtered. Note: Keep your water heater securely strapped to the wall. Boil the water before drinking it.

5. Turn off all gas appliances - To prevent damage to appliances, turn gas off at the appliance value and unplug them. The gas value is located between the wall and the appliance. If you are not able to shut the gas off at the appliance valve, then you should shut it off at the main gas meter. But only shut off if you smell gas, see #3 above.

6. Once your family is OK and safe, check on neighbors - Especially those who are elderly or disabled. If you have been assigned families in the Ward please check on them as soon as possible.

7. Check on pets - Don't forget about pets. Be sure they are safe and confined so they don't run away. Remember, because of health regulations, animals are not allowed in emergency shelters. Make some kind of arrangement for your pets. The link below gives great advise regarding how to handle your pets during a disaster.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkXr40em9Ac


8. Turn off electricity - To prevent damage to appliances, unplug them and turn off electricity at the main electrical panel. Warning: Never touch a circuit breaker while standing in water or with wet hands.

                                                   WARNING:  If you have a gas generator, do not use it in your home to run applicances and lamps, it will KILL YOU! There are fuel less solar generators you can use inside your home. See the links below...

http://www.suntrapsolutions.com/         

http://www.offgridsolargenerators.com/category-s/1814.htm

http://jimbakkershow.com/blog/2012/03/23/introducing-the-new-fuel-less-generator/



9. Unplug all power appliances - This includes, microwaves, TV's, DVD's, VCR's, radios/stereos, computers, washers, dryers, etc. This will reduce the risk of an overload and prevent damage from any surges when power is restored.

10. Turn on your radio for Disaster information - Know the emergency radio stations for your area. Follow all local officials instructions and laws.

11. If you have a fireplace - Do not use it until inspected. It could cause serious health injuries to those in the house.

12. DO NOT, DO NOT use a charcoal BBQ inside the house for heat, they are toxic and will kill you.

13. If a large seismic earthquake - There will be large after shocks. Stay in you house if safe. If not safe, stay clear of the house and other houses around you that could fall. If a house is 20 feet high, and the walls come down, they may fall out 20 feet from the wall. Stay clear.

14. If you can stay on your property. If you are not able to stay in your house, set up shelter outside. If not, go to a local government site where emergency shelter and first-aid has been set up. Check your radio for those locations.

15. If you are trying to cross a roadway where water is across the roadway, DO NOT, do not cross it through the water. You do not know how deep the water is and if there is a large sink hole under the water. Go around the water carefully, giving your self enough room to pass or take a different road.

16. If you come to a stream that appears to be low, DO NOT cross it--You could be carried away in the water or the water could be deeper than you realize and your car could become submerged.

The rule--NEVER, NEVER take a chance crossing standing or moving water, you never know how deep or safe it is!!!

17. If during an earthquake--Click on the link below reagarding earthquake preparation and safety.

http://thearkcarsonward.blogspot.com/2010/08/what-do-before-during-and-after.html

18. If you are driving through a state and there is tornado - If in your car, do not try to out run the tornado, get out immediately, go to the lowest floor of a sturdy building or storm shelter. If in the country, no buildings around, find a gully or ditch to lay down in. Do not go under a bridge or freeway underpass. The force of the tornado will pull you out. Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries. If in a building or house, go to a tornado shelter cellar if available. If there is none, go to the basement, middle of the house or bathroom (cover yourself with a mattress or heavy cushion if time). If in the bathroom get into the bathtub and cover yourself with a mattress or heavy cushion and hold onto it. Or go to an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not go outside or stay in your car. Turn on your portable radio for emergency procedures and information. Important: If you have a cell phone on you during a tornado, discard it, lightening can be attracked to it and you can become electrocuted.

See the link below for great torando safety tips.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uipfxLcMmAU

19. What to do if there is a hurricane - Watch the link below for information and safety tips on hurricanes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4BRfUJoj_A&list=SP63A9138A2047B1A4

20. What to do if there is a snowstorm while driving - Pull over and stay with your car. Maintain at least a half tank of gas, and make sure your windshield washer fluid and oil are topped off. If you get stranded, you will need to run your engine for just a few minutes to stay warm, and you'll need every drop of gas you can get. Run your car for about 10 minutes each hour. If you run it to long you will die from carbon monoxide posioning. Turn off the lights and radio when the car is not running to avoid running the battery down. If you have a portable radio in your 72 Hour Emergency Kit listen for the weather updates. If you have to leave your car for any reason, tie one end of the rope (in your 72 Hour Emergency Family Bag Kti) to the car, and tie the other end to your waist to ensure you can find your way back to safety. Raise the hood of your car to signal an emergency or post a flag or handkerchief to the antenna to signal you need help. Ration your supplies. Eat small snacks every hour or so to give your body an energy source with which to generate heat. Drink about 4 ounces (half cup) of water every hour or so to prevent dehydration. Do not eat the snow. It can deplete your body of energy, lowering its core temperature. Allow the snow to melt, and then drink it. If going on a trip always tell someone else your route and destination before leaving. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged and your gas tank is full. Carry tire chains in your car if you know you will going through a moutain pass while snowing.

See the link below for great tips on preparing and during a snowstorm:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpd9icqmDWg

21. What to do if there is a sandstorm while driving - If the visibility drops to less than 300 feet, pull off the road (exit the freeway if possible), set your parking brake, turn off your headlights, and make sure brake lights and turn signals are also off. In many cases, if your exterior lights are on, other drivers will use the taillights of the person in front of them as a guide to help navigate the road and they will hit you. If you are unable to safely pull off the road, keep your headlights on, turn on yor hazard lights, slow down, and proceed with caution, sounding your horn periodically. Use the highway's centerline to guide you if you can't see in front of you. Pull over at the nearest safe spot. Stay in the car, if not protected by sufficient clothing, you can become injured. Sandstorms are usually accompanied by high temperatures, drink water to stay hydrated. If a winter sandstorm, keep warm, you can quickly experience hypothermia.

22. Discard all food that has been exposed to flood water except those hermetically sealed in metal cans. Wash them with soap and clean warm water. Then immerse in a solution of 3/4 cup 5.25% sodium hypochlorite liquid laundry bleach per gallon of water for two minutes to disinfect the outside of the cans. Rinse immediately in clear water. Chlorine may discolor some metal cans. Do NOT treat aluminum cans, such as soft drink cans with chlorine solution.

23. Check the radio for information about your public water source. If contaminated, do not drink, only drink purified or water stored in your large water barrels.

24. If you leave your home - Leave a note on the door where you are going, who is with you, if you are ok and those injured. Contact your out of state family and friends to let them know your status, where you are, if you are ok or if there are any injures. Give them a contact number to call where you are going.

25. Remember in a natural disaster cell phones may not work but texting may. Try texting first and keep the cell phone lines open for emergencies only.

26. If you have to evacuate - EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY, DO NOT QUESTION OR HESITATE!!! Make sure you wear pants, long sleeve shirts if possible with sturdy shoes. Take your 72 Hour Emergency Kits and Family Bag with you. Use only approved evacuation routes instead of shortcuts which may be impassable. Take along a street map of the local town areas in case you have to take an alternate route. Listen to your portable radio for government and local shelters that have been set up, go there is possible. Only if you have time...take along personal documents, valuables, family photos, genealogy, heirlooms, computer tower (important discs), laptops, things you cannot replace.

27. If you cannot evacuate--After checking your home for damages and you determine you cannot stay inside, first set up shelter. Set up an area and a way to cook away from structures and your shelter. Check your water barrels to make sure they are ok. If the air is contaminated or hard to breath use your masks in your 72 Hour Kits. Listen to your portable radio for emergency instructions and warnings, like contaminated water and blocked roads.

28. Use perishable food from the freezer first then the fridge. Use meats, veggies and other food items before using your canned foo9 or Food Storage items.

29. Sanitation and waste - Set up a toilet area, use your portable toilet and put up a tarp around it for privacy if possible. Dispose of human waste properly. See the Sanitation posting on this website for this information. See the Sanitation posting on the right of this blog.

Note: For some medical reason the production of human waste is slowed down when the diet is reduced and stressed is increased. This is normal. May be have some laxatives in your 72 Hour Kit or Family Bag.

Click on link below for inforamtion on Sanitation

                                                       http://thearkcarsonward.blogspot.com/2010/07/sanitation.html

30. As soon as you can, contact your insurance company to report any damages to your home or car. Most insurance companies have a disaster team that goes to work right away to handle the many claims and to provide assistance to you as soon as possible. Insurance company claim trucks will be in your area as soon as they are allowed in.

31. As soon as you can contact your mortgage company and other credit card companies regarding your situation. They will help you handle your bills due regarding the situation. 

Remember, it may take days or even weeks before the Federal or Local Govenment can give you assistance with injuries, shelter, food and water.

***Here are some great videos regarding preparing for a disaster and what to do during a disaster

1) This first one is in Spanish, great information, there are subtitles in English...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rB-uasXb9k

2) The one below has actress Jamie Lee Curtis speaking for the Amercian Red Cross regarding Emergency Kits and how to handle a disaster, like an earthquake...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rB-uasXb9k

3) The one below is a very good. There are 8 sections (hurricanes, smoke alarms, home fires, emergency checklist, preparing for hurricanes, emergency car kit, earthquake safety, what to do in case of a disaster.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRuSeWbB-3s&list=PL9421D3419F7CFCC7

REMEMBER TO BE CALM, SAFE AND SMART!

Updated 02/2013