SOMETIMES THE ONLY WAY TO LEARN HOW YOU’LL MANAGE IN A CRISIS IS ACTUALLY TO BE IN ONE.
Very early one morning several decades ago, when I was first learning how to drive my 4×4, we ended up stuck axel-deep in mud in the middle of nowhere in a high desert. We decided that since we were beyond the range of cell phones or two-way radio we would send one person to hike back to the nearest town, quite a distance away, while the rest of us attempted to dig the truck out. We had no luck digging out the truck—the tools we had weren’t sufficient. So we were very grateful when, later in the afternoon, a couple of vehicles from the town showed up to help pull us out. Having and executing a plan B significantly shortened the time we were stranded and gave me a valuable lesson in just how good my resources were. Future expeditions were better equipped and planned and because of that I’ve never needed to dig myself out since.
Natural disasters and large-scale regional events will have a significant impact on your local community, especially on emergency resources. If you’re not prepared, you’ll be one of the many thousands clamoring for food, water, shelter, and supplies. It’s a situation you never want to be in, but if you take advantage of the local emergency management information about hazards in your area and have prepared a 72-hour kit you’ll be able to handle the challenge. Wondering about natural disasters? This section covers the gamut, from earthquakes and volcanoes, to hurricanes and tornados. Should you stay or should you go? Learn about survival priorities, evacuation, shelter-in-place, as well as additional strategies for food and water. What about other risks? Read about how to become better prepared for chemical spills, solar flares, pandemics and active shooters. Lastly, this section prepares you to take the next step; to become a resilient survivor of whatever Mother Nature or man-made disaster affects your region.
227 AVOID A WORLD OF TROUBLE
This map shows some of the most commonly occurring natural disasters and where you’re likely to find them.
VOLCANOES Activity occurs largely around the "Ring of Fire," the Pacific region that includes Hawaii and Japan. A second active area extends from Java all the way through the Himalayas and the Mediterranean.
EARTHQUAKES Most commonly occurring along the edge of the earth’s tectonic plates, quakes can also be caused by volcanic activity, landslides, mining, fracking, and drilling.
HURRICANES Also known as cyclones or typhoons, these tropical storms can have a wide range, as they are propelled north and south by massively powerful winds.
FLOODS While flooding can be caused by a number of factors, including dams failing or dikes being breached, in the natural world, flooding follows seasonal snowmelt and storms, and can occur anywhere rain falls heavily.
WILDFIRES Not only triggered by lightning or human error, wildfires are becoming more common around the world as the climate changes and more frequent periods of drought and dry seasons increase fire risk.
TORNADOES Tornadoes happen when the right confluence of thunderstorms and complex air patterns come together. They devastate the central and southern United States and are common in Europe and Australia as well.
228 CHART YOUR PRIORITIES
Knowing how to prioritize for a given disaster is important so that you don’t end up focusing on the wrong thing and wasting what time you may have to prepare for your own safety. Start with the first priority and work your way down the list. Circumstances may change quickly; be prepared to adapt to changing conditions.
If imminent, get to high ground immediately.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news that affects your area.
Prepare to evacuate; gather supplies and go bags.
Secure your home; move valuable items to the highest floor.
Get to a safe place: Drop, cover, and hold on!
Stay there until it’s safe, or leave if it’s too dangerous to stay.
Shut off utilities after the quake.
Seek shelter if your home is no longer safe.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Prepare to evacuate; gather supplies and go bags.
Learn the safe evacuation route, if needed.
Secure and sandbag your home.
Consider proactively evacuating.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Seek cover in a shelter or an interior windowless room.
Await the all-clear signal via siren, Internet, or news.
Assess if your area is still at risk.
Evacuate to another shelter if yours is no longer sound.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Decide whether to shelter in place or evacuate.
Gather supplies and go bags.
Wear goggles and dust masks to protect your eyes and airway.
If evacuating, shut off utilities before leaving.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Gather supplies and go bags.
Gather extra food and medical supplies in case of a long quarantine.
Seal doors, windows, and ducts against ash; turn off fans and air conditioners.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Fill up the gas tank in the vehicle intended for evacuation.
Wear medical gloves, goggles, and N95 masks when in public.
Consider evacuating to an unaffected area if supplies are low.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Activate solar chargers or prepare portable emergency generators.
Gather supplies and go bags.
Gather supplies and go bags.
Consider proactively evacuating.
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
Decide to either shelter in place or evacuate.
Gather supplies and go bags.
Decide whether to shelter in place or evacuate.
Ration battery-powered devices to maximize operational life.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS/NUCLEAR INCIDENT
Check Internet, weather radio, or broadcast media for news in your area.
If time allows, board up windows; sandbag and secure your home.
Seal windows, doors, and vents with plastic and duct tape.
Shut off gas main; turn off propane tanks.
Be ready to cut off and discard any clothes that may be contaminated; have spare clothing handy.
229 TAKE ONLY WHAT YOU CAN
The worst disasters you’ll encounter will force you to make some difficult decisions about your home, your belongings, and your loved ones.
When facing imminent evacuation along with the possibility of losing your home, you’ll have to decide which personal items, family heirlooms, and pictures you want to take with you. If you haven’t thought about this in advance, when disaster strikes, you may lose valuable time trying to decide and gather these things, risking your own safety in the process. Ask yourself, if I could only take one thing with me, what would it be? In some circumstances, you’ll have just enough time to evacuate with your go bag and not much else.
While you will likely have more time, it’s useful to plan ahead to recognize what you can reasonably take with you, given time and space constraints.
If you have a written family plan, consider adding a checklist of the items that each family member feels is important to bring along so that if they happen to be away from home, and time allows, someone else can gather those sentimental items well in advance.
Worst yet, if you have a lot of pets, especially larger ones that don’t fit easily into your car, you may be forced to leave one or more behind. Discuss this with your family members in advance so if the worst does happen, this difficult topic won’t create more conflict or delay a safe evacuation. If you know beforehand that certain pets or animals can’t come along, make sure you have a plan and the necessary supplies to responsibly leave them behind. It isn’t ideal, but you may have no choice, and disasters often necessitate difficult decisions.
230 DECIDE TO STAY (OR GO)
The decision whether to shelter in place or evacuate could be the toughest and most important decision you make in the time before, during, or after a disaster. While certain types of disasters require evacuation, some situations are best ridden out in a secure, well-provisioned home or place of business. That said, the circumstances may dictate that evacuation really will be the best (or only) choice. Here is a simple model to help you decide if it’s time for you to dig in for the long haul, or if you should haul out of there instead.
IF
Authorities announce that your area should evacuate
Authorities announce that you should shelter in place
OR
The situation is worsening and you decide that travel is safer than staying
The situation is not safe enough to travel through
AND
You have an evacuation plan
You don’t have a means to leave the area, or traffic won’t allow you to leave
AND
You have the necessary gear and supplies
You have a prepared disaster kit of gear and supplies
OR
You are meeting up with others who are better prepared and equipped
You have nowhere else to go
THEN
231 EVACUATE EARLY
A number of disaster types can have hours—and on some occasions, days—of notice prior to impacting your area. Some examples include hurricanes, floods, wildfires, winter storms, tsunamis, and even volcanic eruptions. While it’s tempting to wait and see if you really need to evacuate, the possible consequence of waiting is being trapped in the disaster area, which may place you and your family at risk. Additionally, the longer you wait to evacuate, the more snarled traffic will be on the designated evacuation routes. Leaving early allows you to stay ahead of the problem in some cases, which can make the experience of evacuating less stressful for some.
Depending on the reason for evacuating, you should consider turning off your gas, electricity, and water before leaving. If you decide to keep your electricity running, switch off the breakers for any circuits that aren’t powering something critical, such as the freezer and refrigerator.
232 SIGNAL FOR HELP
If you shelter in place, or if you get stranded and need to signal for help, knowing some of the international signals recognized by pilots will allow you to call for help even if you don’t carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or a satellite phone (see item 163). These signals are passive and will allow any search aircraft to understand your needs even if you’re not actively signaling for help. Other forms of signaling, such as smoke, flares, and fires, are also effective but may not be suitable or safe for urban use, such as on a rooftop. Consider keeping several cans of spray paint to mark the ground or roof. If you must improvise, you can also use things such as fabric, branches, wood, debris, or any other material that will contrast sharply with the ground. Alternatively, you can dig the patterns into the ground. Make the symbols as large as you can using the materials available, ideally building the symbols to approximately 20 feet in height.
X Require medical assistance
V Require assistance
F Require food and water
L Require fuel and oil
W Require repair
LL All is well
→ Proceeding in this direction
Believe safe to land here
SOS General distress signal
233 WAVE FOR HELP
If you are in visual range of an aircraft and you wish to signal to them using your arms, here are the two main signals you need to know.
LIFE SAFETY APP
AMERICAN RED CROSS
The American Red Cross has a great series of free smartphone apps that cover a wide variety of specific hazards, such as floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes. There’s even a general-use shelters app. Each of these apps are bilingual in English and Spanish, with lots of helpful information on how to prepare for emergencies, recovery, knowledge tests, alerts, notifications, and maps that are as good or possibly better than paid apps. There are also links to information on first-aid courses, volunteering, kits, giving blood, and donating. These apps also have some great extra features, including emergency strobes and alarm sounds that can be used to call for help, as well as an “I’m safe” function to alert family and friends via Facebook, Twitter, SMS, and e-mail that you’re okay.
SUGGESTED APPS
• Earthquake by American Red Cross
• Tornado by American Red Cross
• Hurricane by American Red Cross
• Wildfire by American Red Cross
• Flood by American Red Cross
234 KNOW YOUR WEATHER ALERTS
The National Weather Service has developed a multi-tier system to notify the public of threatening weather conditions, and knowing the difference between these terms can help you understand the information and make better decisions about the relative risk you might be exposed to.
OUTLOOK A Hazardous Weather Outlook is issued daily to indicate that a hazardous weather event may occur in the next several days. The outlook will usually consist of information about the specific threat (such as severe thunderstorms, flooding, winter weather, or extremes of heat or cold) that may develop over the next week, with an emphasis on the following 24 hours of the outlook. It provides advance notice for those needing considerable lead time to prepare for the event. Outlooks are an excellent opportunity to review and update your disaster supplies.
WATCH A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, or timing is still not certain. Issuing a watch means that hazardous weather is possible. Watches are a good time for you to review your communication, shelter-in-place, and evacuation plans. Monitor weather updates, especially if planning travel or outdoor activities.
ADVISORY An advisory is issued when a hazardous weather event is occurring, imminent, or likely. Advisories are for “less serious” conditions than warnings. However, they may cause significant inconvenience and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to injuries or property damage.
WARNING A warning is issued when a hazardous weather event is occurring, imminent, or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property; activating your emergency action plan may be necessary.
STATEMENT A statement is either issued as a follow-up message that may update, extend, or cancel a previous message or a notification of significant weather for which no type of advisory, watch, or warning exists.
235 CATEGORIZE WEATHER ALERTS
The National Weather Service divides severe weather alerts into a different categories of hazardous weather and hydrologic events.
SEVERE LOCAL STORMS Short-fused, small-scale hazardous weather or any events produced by thunderstorms, including large hail, damaging winds, tornadoes, and flash floods.
WINTER STORMS Weather hazards associated with frozen precipitation (freezing rain, sleet, snow) or the combined effects of precipitation and strong winds.
FIRE WEATHER Weather conditions leading to an increased risk of wildfires.
FLOODING Hazardous hydrologic events resulting in flooding of land areas not normally covered by water, often caused by excessive rainfall.
COASTAL OR LAKESHORE HAZARDS Hydrological hazards in areas near ocean and lake waters including high surf and coastal or lakeshore flooding, as well as rip currents.
MARINE HAZARDS Hazardous events that may affect boats and ships along large bodies of water, such as rough seas and freezing spray.
OTHER HAZARDS Examples include extreme heat or cold, dense fog, high winds, and river or lakeshore flooding.
236 HEED WARNING FLAGS
If you’re near or on the water, it’s good to know what these flags mean, since they are used to visually communicate weather conditions.
DESCRIPTION
WIND KNOTS
WIND MPH
WIND KPH
WAVE HEIGHT FT (M)
DESCRIPTION
WIND KNOTS
WIND MPH
WIND MPH
WAVE HEIGHT FT (M)
DESCRIPTION
WIND KNOTS
WIND MPH
WIND KPH
WAVE HEIGHT FT (M)
DESCRIPTION
WIND KNOTS
WIND MPH
WIND MPH
WAVE HEIGHT FT (M)
237 STORE FOOD FOR THE LONG TERM
For larger-scale disasters, it may be wise to think beyond the minimum 72 hours and instead plan for weeks of self-sufficiency until emergency resources arrive and matters eventually return to normal. Storing more food and having alternatives to cooking in your kitchen will help keep your spirits up and your bellies full, changing how you view the circumstances—a hard survival situation can turn into a “we’re making the best of it” situation.
238 PACK IT UP RIGHT
For long-term storage of dry goods, consider using containers made of PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic. You can find plenty of standard containers made with PETE (listed under the recycling symbol on the label), but buy fresh ones; don’t reuse old food or drink containers. Some plastic is just too flimsy or susceptible to moisture, oxygen, and pests, but PETE, when used in combination with oxygen-absorbing packets, will do the job. You should only use this kind of packaging for dry goods—moist foods must be handled differently to avoid the risk of botulism. Containers should be no bigger than 1 gallon (4 liter) for optimal effectiveness.
STEP 1 Test your container’s seal by closing it tightly, placing it under water, and pressing on the lid or cap. If any bubbles escape, the seal is faulty, and you shouldn’t use it for long-term storage.
STEP 2 Place an oxygen absorber (a packet of iron powder that helps keep food fresh; you can purchase these at home-storage stores or online) in the container.
STEP 3 Fill your container with dry goods (wheat, corn, dry beans, etc).
STEP 4 Wipe the bottle’s top sealing edge clean with a dry cloth, and then press the lid on tightly.
STEP 5 Store the sealed container in a cool, dry location away from direct light. If you use a container’s contents, add a new oxygen absorber when you refill it.
239 COOK IN A DISASTER
During a large-scale disaster you may have to survive for a while without electricity or gas to cook with in your kitchen. If you do still have electricity, a microwave can provide you an option for cooking. If you have neither gas nor electricity, you need alternatives. In an urban area you may not be able to light a fire outside, and your nearby parks with grills and fire pits might already be taken over by others.
If your house has a fireplace, you can use it to cook if you have a way to hold the pots and pans over the fire. If you have a backyard grill, store extra fuel for use in a disaster. Consider also adding a small hibachi to your disaster supplies. Place it on bricks or baking sheets to protect the surface below the grill.
Camping stoves come in various sizes and designs, and they operate on a variety of fuel types, some of which may even be safe to use indoors (check before you buy). If you have one for camping that’s also safe to be used indoors, you’ll be set when disaster strikes. Sterno fuel is also safe to use indoors, but it won’t provide as much heat as other stove options. You can warm foods, but boiling water might be a challenge.
There are also wood-burning backpack stoves designed to effectively burn twigs and branches, making fuel supply less of an issue. Solar stoves can be made from household items if you opt not to buy a commercial model; they don’t require fuel per se, but they won’t work at night or when it’s overcast. Avoid solid-fuel stoves due to the toxic nature of the fuel pellets and the gases they release upon being burned.
240 KEEP YOUR STASH FRESH
A basic rule of any food pantry is “first in, first out.” What that means is, keep track of the expiration dates on items, and use them shortly before that date. For example, bagged rice that’s good for a year? After 11 months, replace it with a new bag and enjoy some with your dinner. You should never have to throw anything away, just keep using the ingredients and replacing them as needed. That way, if and when disaster does strike, your food won’t be spoiled, and you won’t go hungry.
241 PURIFY WATER
If you have used up all of your stored water and there are no other reliable clean-water sources, it may become necessary to treat any unknown water source to make it potable. Treat all water, no matter what you plan on using it for. Besides potentially having a bad odor and taste, contaminated water can contain microorganisms as well as other contaminants.
There are several ways to treat water, but none of them are perfect, so if time and resources allow, the best practice is to combine methods. Before treating, filter debris and particulates by using cheesecloth, coffee filters, or available clean cloth.
USE ULTRAVIOLET The ultraviolet (UV) light water treatment is fast and easy, and you can use a special UV light device (see item 244) or sunlight. To treat up to 33 ounces (1 liter) at a time, just stir the device for 90 seconds in the water and it’s ready for you to drink.
BOIL IT This is the safest method of treating water, achieved by simply bringing water to a rolling boil for 5 minutes. The water will taste better if you aerate it by pouring the water back and forth between two clean containers.
TRY CHLORINE Use only regular household liquid bleach containing 5.25 to 6.0 percent sodium hypochlorite. Do not use bleach that is scented, color safe, or has added cleansers. Use a newly opened or unopened bottle, as the potency of bleach diminishes with time. Add 8 drops of bleach for each gallon (4 liters) of water, stir, and let stand for 30 minutes. The water should have a slight bleach odor. If not, repeat the dosage and let stand another 15 minutes. If it still does not smell of chlorine, discard it and find another source of water.
DISTILL IT Distillation has the advantage of removing other contaminants besides microbes but unfortunately is also the most complicated method of treating water unless you own a distiller unit (which may not work if power is unavailable).
METHOD
REMOVES OTHER CONTAMINANTS * No
REMOVES OTHER CONTAMINANTS:*No
REMOVES OTHER CONTAMINANTS:* No
REMOVES OTHER CONTAMINANTS:* Yes
* HEAVY METALS, SALTS, AND OTHER CHEMICALS
242 TRY SOLAR DISINFECTION
If you have a clear glass or plastic bottle, some water, and a sunny day, you can harness the power of the sun’s light to make your water much safer to drink. Largely advocated for developing countries, solar water disinfection is also useful in any post-disaster circumstance anywhere in the world, although it’s best applied in equatorial countries that can provide abundant strong sunlight.
The most common solar disinfection technique is to expose a clear plastic bottle full of questionable water to the sun for a minimum of one full day. The sun’s natural UV light kills or damages almost all biological contaminants in the water. This method is easy to do, it’s essentially free, and it offers good (but not complete) bacterial and viral disinfection.
Use only clear bottles that are 66 ounces (2 liters) or smaller in size for effective treatment. The water must be clear, so filter it first if necessary. Set the water bottle out in direct sunlight for an entire day, or leave it out for two days if the weather is overcast.
There are some challenges, though: This method is not effective in rainy weather. It offers no residual disinfection and is not as effective against bacterial spores and cyst stages of some parasites. It’s not 100 percent effective, but it’s better than taking your chances with untreated water.
243 DISTILL WATER PROPERLY
Distillation is simple in principle, involving boiling water and then collecting the vapor that condenses. If you lack special lab equipment or a commercial distiller, you can improvise using a large pot, some paracord, and a mug.
STEP 1 Fill the pot halfway with water.
STEP 2 Tie the cup to the handle on the pot’s lid so that the cup will hang right side up while the lid is upside down. Check to be sure that, when you lower the lid, the cup is not dangling into the water. If possible, add some ice to the inverted lid to speed up condensation below.
STEP 3 Boil the water for 20 minutes.
STEP 4 Carefully lift the lid. The water that has dripped from the lid into the cup is distilled and safe to drink.
244 USE A STERIPEN
As we’ve already discussed, the standard methods for purifying water are safe, but they’re rarely portable, fast, or battery powered. This is especially true if you’re on the move and can’t bring liquid bleach or a stove, or don’t have the time to treat water with sunlight. The challenge of safe drinking water leaves you with few options if you want something for when you’re on the move. The SteriPEN, however, is the answer. SteriPEN products are compact UV light generators that purify water by destroying more than 99.9 percent of bacteria, viruses, and even protozoan cysts such as giardia and cryptosporidia. The type recommended for disaster use is powered by AA batteries, since those are more common than the more expensive CR123 batteries and easier than the rechargeable options. With alkaline batteries it will treat about 13 gallons (50 liters), and with lithium AA batteries it can treat up to 39 gallons (150 liters). SteriPENs can treat up to a quarter of a gallon (1 liter) at a time. Just filter the water to remove particulate matter and debris, then submerge and stir for approximately 90 seconds until the SteriPEN display advises that the treatment is complete. Your water is now safe to drink.
245 MAKE NORMAL SALINE
Normal saline can be used as a sterile rinse, disinfectant, and mouthwash. It should be made using non-iodized salt purchased from the grocery store; rock salt or sea salt are not recommended for this purpose. If available, use distilled or purified water instead of tap water. Since the homemade saline solution will only be effective for about a day, it’s best to only make enough needed for immediate use.
STEP 1 If you plan on pouring the solution into a container, sterilize it by boiling tap water and placing the container and the lid in the water for 15 minutes.
STEP 2 Turn off the heat and let it sit, 15-30 minutes until the water has cooled.
STEP 3 Remove the container without touching the inside of the container, lid, or lip.
STEP 4 : METRIC Boil 1 liter of distilled or purified water and add 9 grams of salt.
STEP 4 : IMPERIAL Add ½ teaspoon of salt per cup of distilled or purified water.
STEP 5 Allow to boil for 15 minutes with the lid on and then let cool.
STEP 6 Label the outside of the container with the date and discard after a day.
246 DISINFECT WITH BLEACH
During a longer-duration disaster or in a pandemic, you’ll have limited resources to disinfect reusable supplies and equipment. One way to disinfect is to create a 1:100 bleach solution from chlorine with a base strength of 5 percent. If you don’t have the means to easily measure the right amount of bleach, you can do so using a cup measure and two buckets.
STEP 1 Using a Sharpie, mark one bucket 1:10 and the other 1:100 in large block numbers.
STEP 2 Add 9 cups (2 liters) of water to the 1:10 bucket.
STEP 3 Carefully add 1 cup (200 mL) bleach to the water. You’ve now created a 1:10 bleach solution. Like regular bleach, 1:10 bleach is caustic and should be stored in a safe place with a lid over it.
STEP 4 In the 1:100 bucket, add 9 cups (2 liters) of water and then pour 1 cup (200 mL) of the 1:10 bleach solution to create a solution of 1:100.
You can now use this solution to disinfect a variety of things. Both solutions must be prepared daily, as they lose their strength after 24 hours. If the chlorine smell is not detectable, discard the solution as expired.
NOTES: Rinse in water afterward.
NOTES: Wipe with solution-soaked cloth.
NOTES: Wash in soap and water, rinse in solution, then air dry.
NOTES: Remove with a cloth soaked in 1:100, then wash with soap and water afterward.
HARD SURFACES (tables, sinks, walls, floor)
NOTES: Mop first with soap and water, then use the bleach solution.
NOTES: After soaking in bleach, soak items in soapy water overnight.
MAJOR INFECTIOUS WASTE SPILL
NOTES: Use a higher concentration if a known pandemic pathogen is suspected.
247 GET OUT OF THE MUD
During and after flooding, silt and mud make driving difficult, and you risk getting bogged down in mud. Likely, your vehicle will sink to the axles and refuse to move. Even if you’re prepared, it will take time and effort to free your vehicle. Here’s how to do get moving again.
GET OFF THE GAS Spinning your tires will only end up digging deeper ruts and tossing around the remaining solid ground under the wheels.
GO BACK AND FORTH Switch between reverse and first gear to rock the vehicle; the wheels may pick up enough traction to get you out. Try it a few times.
DIG A PATH Using whatever tools you have on hand, hollow out a hole in the mud in front of each tire. Give each hole a slightly upward slope, then drive forward very gently and, with any luck, up the incline.
MAKE TRACTION Search your vehicle and the surrounding environment for items such as branches, gravel, blankets, or even your floor mats, and lay them immediately ahead of the wheels. Then gently drive over these objects onto firmer ground.
KEEP MOVING Once free, don’t stop until you’re back on firm ground.
248 CROSS FAST-MOVING WATER
Sometimes you may not be able to wait around for someone to build a safe water crossing. Fording swift- moving water can be dangerous, but if you apply some basic triangular geometry, it can help you cross safely. If you are braving the current and you are backed up by two friends onshore—with a sturdy loop of rope twice the width of the body of water connecting all three of you—the two on land will be able to help you, even if you lose your footing. Once you reach the far bank, the second can cross, using the rope stretched between the banks as a safety line. When the last person is ready to cross, they enter the water and can be pulled across by the two on the far shore holding the rope.
Other tips for safety: Face upstream while you cross. Leave your shoes on to protect your feet and give you better grip. Shuffle your feet along the bottom, and avoid lifting your feet. If the conditions are not favorable at one site, look for a better spot to cross.
249 ASSESS YOUR HOME AFTER A FLOOD
When the all-clear sounds, you’ll need to return home and assess the damage. But even after the waters recede, you may still be in danger. Follow these basic guidelines to stay safe.
BE SURE OF STABILITY If doors are stuck in their frames, or if your foundation or roof looks damaged, you should wait for an inspector to check out your home’s stability before you go back inside.
AIR IT OUT If it appears safe to enter, open doors and windows to air out your home. Assist in drying the interior by using fans and dehumidifiers to help remove excess moisture.
CHECK FOR GAS LEAKS If there is a strong smell of natural gas or if you hear a hissing sound, immediately exit, opening any doors and windows as you leave to air out the house. Turn off the gas main and then remain outside. Have either the fire department or gas utility check your home before reentering.
POWER ON WITH CARE If the floor is wet, turn off the power at the main circuit breaker or fuse box with a nonconductive item, such as a broom handle or a rolled-up rubber floormat. Have an electrician inspect appliances or anything electrical or motorized that got wet prior to turning them back on.
SPOT SAGGING Check the ceiling and floor for any signs of sagging. Water may be trapped in the ceiling, or floors may be unsafe to walk on.
250 SCALE IT UP
Known as the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale, this classification system is used to define the intensity and damage potential of sustained winds. Terms that are used before a hurricane is declared are “tropical depressions” and “tropical storms.” Tropical depressions have a maximum sustained wind speed of 38 mph (61 kph), and tropical storms have a sustained wind speed of 39–73 miles per hour (63–117 kph).
SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS: 74–95 mph (119–153 kph)
STORM SURGE HEIGHTS: 4–5 ft (1.2–1.5 m)
POTENTIAL DAMAGE: Some damage: Well-constructed homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding, and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap; shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Damage to power lines and poles may lead to power outages lasting several days.
SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS: 96–110 mph (155–177 kph)
STORM SURGE HEIGHTS: 6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m)
POTENTIAL DAMAGE: Extensive damage: Well-constructed homes may sustain major roof and siding damage. Shallow-rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block roads. Near-total power loss is expected with outages lasting from several days to weeks.
SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS: 111–129 mph (179–208 kph)
STORM SURGE HEIGHTS: 9–12 ft (2.7–3.7 m)
POTENTIAL DAMAGE: Severe damage: Well-built homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking roads. Electricity and water may be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.
SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS: 130–156 mph (209–251 kph)
STORM SURGE HEIGHTS: 13–18 ft (4–5.5 m)
POTENTIAL DAMAGE: Devastating damage: Well-built homes may sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles may isolate residential areas. Power outages may last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
SUSTAINED WIND SPEEDS: ≥ 157 mph (≥ 253 kph)
STORM SURGE HEIGHTS: ≥ 19 ft (≥ 5.8 m)
POTENTIAL DAMAGE: Catastrophic damage: A high percentage of homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
251 PREPARE FOR THE TEMPEST
If you act well in advance of a hurricane, you can reduce the risk of damage to your home.
TRIM YOUR TREES Remove diseased or damaged limbs, and strategically remove branches so that wind can blow through.
INSTALL STORM SHUTTERS A set of permanent hurricane shutters provides the best protection for your windows and doors.
SECURE VALUABLES Consider getting a safety deposit box or buying a waterproof document safe for any valuable personal items and copies of important paperwork.
BUY EMERGENCY SUPPLIES When a hurricane threatens, supplies are quickly sold out at many stores. Be sure to get yours well in advance.
STRENGTHEN GARAGE DOORS Homes can be destroyed by winds through damaged garage doors. Reinforce or replace yours if you can.
252 HANDLE A HURRICANE
When a hurricane watch is issued, it’s time to prepare your home for a storm. Here are some of the things you should be doing.
First, prepare for evacuation: Fill up your gas tank, and pack all of your go bags and other supplies in your vehicle. Go over your evacuation plan, and consider leaving in advance of being ordered to do so. Prior to evacuating, turn off utilities and propane tanks as advised by local emergency officials.
Next, prepare your home: Secure your yard, as flying objects can damage your home or harm people. Protect windows with storm shutters or ½-inch (12mm) marine plywood covers. Shut all interior doors, and secure and brace external doors. Store drinking water; reserve more by filling clean bathtubs, sinks, and bottles.
If you live on a flood plain, be sure to take flood precautions as well. If you live in a mobile home, check your tie-downs and then evacuate as soon as possible.
253 BEWARE THE EYE OF THE STORM
The middle of each hurricane has a calm “eye” that can give the false impression that the storm is over. Often the worst part of the storm will happen after the eye passes over and the winds begin to blow from the opposite direction. Trees, buildings, and other objects damaged by the first part of the storm can be further damaged or destroyed by the second winds. Opposing winds begin suddenly, surprising and injuring unsuspecting people who left their shelter before they received an “all clear” from local emergency management officials.
254 TELL WHEN A TWISTER IS COMING
Is that shape off in the horizon just an innocent cloud—or a deadly tornado? Here are some telltale signs to look for to know the difference.
SPOT A SUPERCELL A thunderhead with a hard-edged cauliflower look is called a supercell. This is a dangerous formation with interior winds of up to 170 miles per hour (274 kph).
WATCH FOR WALL CLOUDS These have clearly defined edges and look dense and, well, sort of like a wall.
GLIMPSE AT GREEN A sickly green hue in the sky can mean that a tornado is starting to take shape.
LOOK FOR LARGE HAIL Tornadoes will frequently emerge close to the hail-producing portions of a storm.
FIND A FUNNEL CLOUD A needlelike formation descending from a cloud’s base indicates cyclonic activity. When a funnel cloud touches down, it becomes a tornado. Fortunately, most funnel clouds never touch down.
HEAR STRANGE SOUNDS Sounds similar to a train or a waterfall may be a sign of an approaching twister. If your ears pop, that means there has been a drop in air pressure, which is another danger sign.
255 JUDGE A TORNADO’S COURSE
If you’re on the ground staring down a tornado, you can usually tell whether it’s moving to your left or right. But if a tornado looks like it’s standing still, it’s hard to tell if it’s heading toward you or away from you. If you’re at all unsure, assume it’s heading toward you and evacuate the area. Tornadoes often move southwest to northeast, so use a compass or a car’s navigation system to avoid driving in the same direction. If you see a tornado, drive at a right angle to its path. Don’t try driving directly away from the twister—that’ll put you in the line of danger. There’s an excellent chance that the tornado will overtake you, because twisters are fast and—sometimes downright impossible—to outrun.
256 STAY SAFE IN A TORNADO
A twister can touch down, and it’s tough to know where you’ll be or how bad the storm will get. Here’s advice on staying safe in three likely situations, from a tornado that’s hypothetical to one that’s about to hit.
TORNADO WATCH (POSSIBLE THREAT)
HOME
• Gather needed supplies.
• Clear shelter of hazards.
• Monitor broadcasts for pertinent details.
• Watch local weather conditions for signs of supercell activities.
• Check with friends and family members, and share plans and location information.
CAR
• Avoid back roads and unfamiliar places.
• Head for home or a designated shelter. If weather becomes severe, pull over until conditions improve.
• Avoid using hazard lights, which may distract other motorists.
• Monitor broadcasts.
OUTDOORS
• If you’re out camping, consider evacuating to a safer location.
• Watch for tornadic signs in the southwestern sky.
• Stash your gear inside your vehicle.
• Contact a responsible person back home and fill him or her in on your situation and location.
TORNADO WARNING (IMMINENT THREAT)
HOME
• Stay away from your windows; do not open doors or windows.
• Move to the basement or storm cellar if you have one, or to an interior room.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture, such as a workbench or heavy table, and hold on to it.
• If you’re inside a mobile home, evacuate to a storm shelter or other sturdy building.
CAR
• Pull off the road and try to spot the tornado.
• If you can see a funnel, determine its direction.
• If you’re in the tornado’s path, drive immediately away at a right angle to its path.
• If possible, seek shelter in a sturdy building or storm shelter.
OUTDOORS
• If possible, seek shelter inside the basement of a sturdy building.
• Look for a low-lying area in which you can ride out the storm.
• If you’re in the tornado’s path, move quickly to a ravine as far away from the twister’s path as possible.
• Stay low in order to avoid flying debris.
TORNADO DANGER (TOUCHDOWN)
HOME
• If you are not in your basement or a shelter, get into a bathtub or under a fixture that’s been firmly attached to the floor.
• Pull a mattress over yourself to protect yourself from any falling debris.
• Lock arms with others.
• Stay low and avoid the temptation to watch or film the tornado.
CAR
• Get out of the car.
• Find a low-lying area, such as a ditch, and lie flat with your fingers locked together behind your head.
• Do not go under an overpass; the risk of flying debris is much higher there.
• If there’s a boulder, put your hands behind your head and lie behind the side opposite the wind.
OUTDOORS
• Avoid the temptation to look up. Keep your head down on the ground.
• Lie facedown with hands protecting your head in a low-lying area until the storm has passed.
• Look for a sturdy object like a boulder, and put it between you and the twister.
257 PACK YOUR GO BAG
If you can prepare for an emergency in advance, you should. You never know when one will strike, and you never know how long it’ll take to prepare on short notice. Here’s what you should have packed and ready.
FOOD Emergency rations are the most shelf-stable and long lasting, as well as prepackaged and relatively lightweight.
PURIFICATION Water purification tablets are light, small, and convenient.
BAG Get a large, sturdy backpack to easily carry items.
ROPE Paracord can fulfill a variety of needs for packing, survival, and even medical emergencies.
TOOLS A multi-tool's various options should fit your needs, and will be easy to carry as well.
FLASHLIGHT A compact LED flashlight is sturdy and consumes less power than conventional models.
BLANKET A space blanket is perfect—lightweight, compact, and insulating.
WATER A reusable water canteen should fulfill your needs.
If you’re caught off guard or can’t get to your go bag, there’s still hope. With a little luck and some rummaging around, you’ll likely be able to put together an improvised go bag with the following suggested items to start.
BAG A suitcase, duffle bag, or small backpack can do in a pinch.
WATER A plastic water bottle will do; grab one with a resealing top if you can.
FOOD Granola bars or other compact snacks can provide needed calories.
BLANKET Pack a lightweight throw blanket to keep you warm in cold conditions.
ROPE Twine or thin rope can be a substitute for paracord, if used carefully.
FLASHLIGHT Pack a Mag-Lite or similar type; one powered by three D cells is the most common.
TOOL Multiple hand tools will have to do. Grab the basics at the least: flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers, pliers, and knife.
PURIFICATION A couple of drops of bleach per gallon (4 liters) will help make water safer to drink.
258 SURVIVE BEING SNOWBOUND IN A CAR
If you’re stuck in a blizzard, a vehicle can protect you from wind and snow, and its visibility increases the odds that a search crew will find you. But in bitter cold, your car will likely feel like a freezer, because metal and glass offer no insulation. Thankfully snow offers remarkable insulation, which helps keep you warm inside your car.
STAY PUT Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Only leave if you see a better option for shelter, such as a building.
SIGNAL FOR HELP Check your mobile phone signal, and attempt to call, text, or post to social media that you’ve been stranded. If in a remote area, stomp large block letters in an open area spelling out HELP or SOS; line with rocks or tree limbs to be visible from the air.
GET NOTICED Tie a brightly colored piece of cloth to the antenna or top of the car. Check every few hours to make sure snow hasn’t covered it. Keep snow off the car’s hood so searchers can spot the color contrast from the air.
PILE IT ON Keep a shovel in the trunk. A foot of snow piled onto the passenger compartment will help turn it into a snow cave of sorts.
WARM UP Huddle with other passengers, make use of any clothing or blankets you have in your vehicle, and run the heater in short bursts to make the most of the fuel you have. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If you have candles, light one up—it’ll deliver an amazing amount of warmth.
KEEP MOVING Exercise every so often inside the car to keep your circulation going.
RATION SUPPLIES Conserve food, water, fuel, and battery power. You never know how long you’ll be stranded.
KEEP WATCH Take turns sleeping, as falling asleep can be deadly if it’s cold enough. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews and to keep an eye on the other occupants of the vehicle.
259 GET THROUGH A BLIZZARD AT HOME
Once a blizzard hits, it’s best to stay in the protective shelter that your home provides. If you’re in snow country, make a habit of checking the weather forecast daily; check your supplies and go shopping for extras if a storm is inbound.
STOCK UP Make sure your winter shelter-in-place survival kit is well loaded with the usual essentials, plus some extra blankets, sleeping bags, and heavy coats and other warm clothing. Stock up on sand, rock salt, and snow shovels to manage the snow after the storm is over. Consider buying some new board games or other forms of entertainment that don’t rely on power.
WATCH YOUR WATER Severe cold can freeze pipes, leaving you without drinking water or the ability to use your bathroom. Store extra water in containers where it won’t freeze.
WINTERIZE YOUR HOME Look for ways to make your home more resilient in the winter. Hang thick curtains over the windows for extra insulation. In the daytime, keep your curtains and blinds open to allow sunlight in to help warm your home. At night, keep them shut to trap heat inside.
STAY WARM Stock up on fuel for a wood-burning stove or fireplace. Huddle with others in a smaller interior room with no windows maximize warmth. Close doors to any rooms not in use to make better use of the available heat.
KEEP DRY If you must go outside, change out of wet clothing as soon as possible to prevent loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses its insulating properties, which can lead to frostbite or hypothermia (see item 110).
260 SET UP A SNOW PANTRY
If you loose power in a winter storm, one thing you don’t have to worry about is keeping your perishables stored safely. All you need is a shovel, a footlocker, a cooler, or anything that is enclosed with a door to protect your food from scavengers.
STEP 1 Dig a hole in the snow or pile snow up and around the box to cover it in at least 1 foot (30 cm) of snow.
STEP 2 Place all perishable items into individual plastic bags to reduce odors that might attract animals.
STEP 3 Place food into the box and close it. Cover the opening with snow to further insulate your improvised freezer.
261 RIDE OUT AN EARTHQUAKE
When an earthquake strikes, the immediate priority is to get to a safe place to ride out the temblor, but where you are at the time will determine what you do next.
If you are indoors when the earthquake begins, drop to your hands and knees, and cover your head and neck with your arms. Move under any additional cover, such as under a sturdy desk or table, if you need to take shelter from the danger of falling objects. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, or anything that could fall, such as items on shelves or furniture. Wait and remain inside until the shaking stops. Avoid doorways, as they do not provide protection from falling or flying objects.
If you are awakened by an earthquake, remain in bed and cover your head and neck with a pillow. Moving in the dark may result in more injuries than remaining in bed, as you won’t be able to see debris or hazards, or judge how safe it is to move.
Should you be outdoors, get to open space if possible. Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. If you’re in a dense urban area such as downtown in a city, you may be at less risk from falling debris if you get inside. Once you reach a safe spot, drop to your hands and knees and hold on until the quake stops.
If you’re driving when an earthquake occurs, stop as quickly and safely as possible. Remain in the vehicle; avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires. Proceed carefully once the earthquake has stopped, but be aware of aftershocks. Avoid underpasses, bridges, or ramps that the earthquake may have damaged.
262 SURVIVE UNDER DEBRIS
The saying “earthquakes don’t kill people, buildings do” reminds us of the risk of being trapped under debris or in a collapsed structure. If you survive an earthquake but end up trapped, you must be prepared to survive on your own with limited resources and space until rescuers can reach you. In order to improve your chances of survival, here are some important tips.
KEEP IN TOUCH If you have your phone, try calling, texting, or posting to social media. If none of those works, there may be an outage in the area. Turn your phone off to conserve the battery and try again every few hours.
DOUSE FLAMES Don’t use a match or lighter to see where you are, as there could be a risk of explosion from gas leaks.
BREATHE EASY As dust settles from the collapse, cover your mouth and nose with a cloth. Avoid any movement that kicks up more dust, as that continues to make breathing more difficult.
SIGNAL FOR HELP You can call for help by tapping on a pipe or wall. If you have a whistle use it instead of your voice, as yelling will tire you quickly.
CONSERVE SUPPLIES If you have any food or drink on your person or accessible in the void, ration it carefully; you don’t know how long you’ll need it to last.
263 ASSESS A CONCUSSION
Concussions are common head injuries caused by a variety of circumstances, including car accidents, sports, a fall, or a blow to the head from falling debris.
Begin by checking to see if the victim has a bleeding head injury. If so, bandage the injury, but it’s still common for concussions to develop localized swelling, or a “goose egg.” Either way, visible external injuries are not a good gauge of severity, as even minor scalp wounds can have profuse bleeding. Instead, you should look for the following signs and symptoms:
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Confusion or brief loss of consciousness
• Drowsiness or feeling sluggish
• Double vision or blurred vision
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or noise
Have the person lie down and rest. Place a cold compress (frozen peas, cold pack, or ice, wrapped in a towel) on their head, and monitor them for the next 24 hours to ensure that they haven’t gotten worse. Most symptoms of a concussion will resolve on their own, but if they persist or worsen, or if there are other serious signs, such as slurred speech, seizures, prolonged unconsciousness, or blood or clear fluid coming from their ears or nose, call for an ambulance and get medical help immediately.
264 KNOW TSUNAMI WARNING SIGNS
A tsunami can move through deep water at more than 600 miles per hour (965 kph), crossing an ocean in less than a day. It won’t slow in shallower waters; in fact, it speeds up. Go to high ground if you notice any one of these signs; don’t wait for more than one sign or an official warning. Authorities may not have time to send an alert before the tsunami reaches land.
CHECK FOR QUAKES Earthquakes in a coastal region are a significant warning sign. If you’re near the earthquake, seek high ground; if the tremor occurred elsewhere, monitor broadcasts for warnings.
LISTEN TO THE SEA Roaring sounds may precede the arrival of a tsunami.
WATCH THE WATERS As a tsunami approaches land, coastal waters recede, creating a drawback trough that exposes normally submerged areas. When this happens, you have just minutes before the wave hits.
265 BRACE FOR IMPACT
Earthquakes aren’t the only thing that cause tsunamis: volcanic activity, massive landslides, or large meteor impacts can all trigger one. Since the biggest tsunamis are as tall as 100 feet (30 m), you’ll want to get at least that high above sea level to be safe. Anytime you’re in a coastal area, think about where you would go in a big-wave emergency.
A tsunami is a series of waves, and the first may not be the most dangerous. A tsunami can last for several hours, and the wave series may come in surges that are anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour apart. Tsunamis can also travel up rivers and streams. During tsunami warnings, stay away from rivers and streams that lead to the ocean, and be sure to evacuate to higher ground even if you’re up to 2 miles (3.2 km) away from the coast.
While in a coastal area, use your situational awareness to identify any escape routes to high ground. Plan on following designated tsunami evacuation routes (if they’re established in your area) or simply heading inland and uphill as quickly as possible. Don’t leave the safety of high ground until you are notified that the tsunami danger has past.
LIFE SAFETY APP
WEATHER
While having a weather radio is a great addition to your emergency kit, downloading a weather radio app is a great backup way for you to receive and access all of this information when you don’t have the radio handy. There are many different apps available, including those that can provide small craft advisory along with other coastal warning features. Some apps are free and some charge for different features, including eliminating ads. There is no official mobile phone application available from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), but there are still many different apps to chose from which can stream and organize all the NOAA’s weather information for you. The National Weather Service offers its own app-like interface which provides nationwide weather forecasts and information for your smartphone, and you can find other apps that deliver localized info and warnings for severe weather conditions in your area.
SUGGESTED APPS
• NOAA Weather Radio
• NOAA Weather Radar
• NWS Mobile Weather
• Stormshield
266 BEWARE VOLCANIC HAZARDS
Movies have typically portrayed red-hot lava as the biggest danger during an eruption, but there are really many more different types of potential hazards from volcanic activity, and lava is the least dangerous of them.
Molten rock usually flows relatively slowly, but lava is only the most commonly known part of an eruption. Along with lava, volcanoes will also eject other fallout—there are various pyroclastic materials, ranging in size from fragments to giant rocks, that can be thrown a short distance or ejected into the upper atmosphere. Volcanos also release hot gases that produce acid rain and air pollution that can spread far on wind currents, affecting regional or global climate.
In an eruption, water, debris, ash, and other materials can combine into a heavy slurry that can move quickly and with destructive force. The heat from the eruption can melt snowpack or divert rivers or streams, leading to flash floods. An erupting volcano can also trigger landslides, avalanches, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
After an eruption, seek a reliable source of emergency information to determine which hazards you may be facing, and respond accordingly. Prepare to evacuate; avoid areas downwind and river valleys downstream of the volcano.
LAVA BLOCKS AND BOMBS
Blocks are solid rocks that are ejected from a volcano, bombs start off as molten rock, then solidify before they hit the ground. The smallest are only 2½ inches (64 mm) in diameter but the largest can be enormous. One eruption in 1935 ejected bombs that were 16–20 feet (5–6 m) wide! Another eruption in 1924 ejected blocks that weighed as much as 14 tons!
267 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ASHFALL
Volcanic ash is composed of fine, glassy particles that can cause severe injury to breathing passages and eyes, and can irritate skin. To safeguard yourself while you’re outside, wear appropriate gear: long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect your skin, goggles to protect your eyes, and a dust mask to help with breathing.
Ashfall can also be damaging to vehicles and equipment. Engines can become clogged and stall, and moving parts, such as brakes, can be damaged from abrasion, so it’s best to keep car or truck engines turned off. Park vehicles or aircraft in garages or hangars, or cover them in tarps.
268 LOOK OUT FOR LAHAR
“Lahar” is originally an Indonesian term used to describe the mixture of material and water that flows down the slopes of a volcano or valley. A lahar is said to look like a moving mass of wet concrete that carries debris, rocks, and even large boulders. Lahars can vary in size, speed, and danger. Large lahars can be thousands of feet wide and hundreds of feet tall. The most dangerous ones flow much faster than humans can run, up to 60 miles per hour (100 kph), and can flow for hundreds of miles before coming to rest.
269 HANDLE A HAZMAT EVENT
“Hazmat,” short for “hazardous materials,” is a broad term that can mean any number of dangerous solids, gases, or liquids, including substances that are radioactive, flammable, explosive, corrosive, oxidizing, biohazardous, toxic, or pathogenic. If you live or work near railway lines, freeways, or industrial complexes, you’re at higher risk, as those areas are more likely to be the site of an incident.
STAY INFORMED Tune in to local radio or TV broadcasts or trusted internet news sources to stay up to date on the situation, and also make sure you’re signed up for the emergency notification system for your area (see item 230). If you have been notified to evacuate, pack some bags in advance; if given no notice, grab your go bag. As you leave, keep all car windows shut, and set your air conditioner to recirculate air inside the car.
AVOID THE DANGER ZONE If you end up caught outdoors when the hazmat warning is issued, cover your face as completely as possible, and stay upwind, uphill, and upstream of the hazmat incident location, preferably at least 1 mile (1.6 km) away until you can find appropriate shelter.
270 DECONTAMINATE YOURSELF
If you’re unlucky enough to get any hazardous materials on your person, and there are no nearby emergency responders to help decontaminate you, it’s time for you to take action yourself.
STEP 1 Strip off all your clothing immediately and seal it inside a plastic bag. Do not pull clothes off over your head; instead, use scissors to cut the clothing away. Also, while you are undressing, avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as you could introduce dangerous chemicals into your body by doing so.
STEP 2 If the hazardous material is in powder form and it is still visible, brush off as much as you can before getting into a shower. Scrub and rinse all affected areas for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses and place them in the same bag as your clothes.
STEP 3 Put on fresh clothes and double-bag the contaminated clothing. Put the bags in a safe place, and do not handle them further until safe procedures to do so are advised by emergency response personnel.
271 GET A DISASTER UNDER YOUR THUMB
If you spot a chemical spill, fire, or gas cloud, and you’re not sure of the material being released, it’s best to get far enough back to avoid getting contaminated by the hazmat incident. One easy trick is literally a rule of thumb.
Spot the incident site and extend your arm toward it. Line up your thumb with the site; if you can obscure the entire area with your thumb, then you’re at a safe distance for the moment. If your thumb doesn’t cover it, then continue moving away from the area until it does. Be sure to move upwind, uphill, and upstream from the incident if at all possible.
272 SEAL YOUR HOME
As soon as you are informed of a hazmat problem nearby, move indoors to limit exposure unless you’re told to evacuate. In some cases the authorities may advise sealing your home. Here’s how you can accomplish that.
STEP 1 Close any vents leading to the outside, including your fireplace damper. Turn off all of your air conditioners, fans, and ventilation systems.
STEP 2 Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal windows and doors. If you run out of plastic sheeting, you can improvise by using some aluminum foil, or even wax paper, to seal around air conditioner vents, kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, and clothes dryer vents.
STEP 3 Close and lock exterior doors and windows so that no one can enter or leave after you seal the house.
STEP 4 Move to an aboveground room that has the least number of windows and doors. Once you’re inside with all needed supplies, seal off any conduits leading into the room with duct tape, close all interior doors, and place towels at the bottom of doors to limit air circulation within the house.
273 FORTIFY YOUR HOME
Preparing for emergencies and disasters doesn't mean just grabbing a go bag or packing a suitcase. If you need to shelter in place, your home could stand a bit of armoring and equipping too.
HAZMAT INCIDENT Use plastic sheeting to seal your house.
EARTHQUAKE Seismic retrofit/reinforce your home.
PANDEMIC Stock up on respirators and PPE.
WILDLAND FIRE Clear a defensible space around your house.
HURRICANE Cover windows with storm shutters.
TORNADO Install a storm shelter.
WINTER STORM Store extra wood and fuel to keep warm.
FLOOD An inflatable raft will help get you to safety if the waters rise.
FINANCIAL Store cash on hand for emergency purchases and events.
If you’re really pressed for time and haven’t been able to prepare your house along with the rest of your possessions, there are still plenty of ways that you can make your home a safer shelter.
FINANCIAL Use items such as gold rings and jewelry for trade.
FLOOD Build a raft using buoyant objects.
WINTER STORM Break down furniture for use as firewood.
TORNADO Shelter in your bathtub, with a mattress cover.
PANDEMIC Wash your hands often; avoid sick people.
WILDLAND FIRE Wet down shrubs and trees around house.
HAZMAT INCIDENT Shelter in place in an interior room with towels sealing the door.
EARTHQUAKE Install furniture straps and cupboard latches.
HURRICANE Cover windows with plywood sheeting.
274 AVOID THE PLAGUE
Whether it’s a pandemic or a seasonal flu outbreak, you can easily avoid infecting yourself or others.
Protect yourself by avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces or objects that you handle often, such as door handles or knobs, desktops, phones, faucets, and light switches. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands, since this is the most common way to contaminate yourself. Get plenty of sleep and exercise, manage your stress, stay hydrated, and eat a healthy diet.
In high-risk environments, wear a mask, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer regularly.
Protect others by keeping your distance if you are ill. Stay home from work, school, and errands while sick. If you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. (Alternatively, use your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.) If you have to be close to other people, again, put on a mask to protect others, and regularly clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
275 WASH UP
It turns out your mom was right: Washing your hands does make a big difference in preventing getting sick or infecting others. Surprisingly, studies found that even professionals in the medical field don’t properly wash their hands, so take a moment to read how do it right.
STEP 1 Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
STEP 2 Rub hands together vigorously to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
STEP 3 Continue for at least 20 seconds—it takes that long for the soap and scrubbing action to properly clean your hands. Want an easy way to time yourself? Imagine singing “Happy Birthday” twice.
STEP 4 Rinse your hands under running water.
STEP 5 Dry your hands by using a paper towel. Physically drying your hands helps remove bacteria.
STEP 6 If you are in a high-risk area, use your paper towel to turn off the faucet and open the bathroom door.
276 PACK EXTRA PANDEMIC SUPPLIES
Your emergency kits should already include these items, but if you’re concerned about pandemics, or the news reports an increased risk, consider buying extra medical gloves, N95 respirators, and hand sanitizer. If the pandemic risk is very high, consider using disposable Tyvek jumpsuits and safety goggles as additional protection.
277 DON A MASK CORRECTLY
If you have the opportunity to be fit tested for a mask, do so in order to learn how to properly size and don an N95 mask. Additionally, training will include valuable information on the limitations and benefits of N95 masks. Here’s how to correctly place a mask on your face for a proper seal.
STEP 1 Inspect for damage and contamination. Examine the straps and nosepiece of the mask to verify that they are in good condition.
STEP 2 Hold the mask in one hand, with the nosepiece at the fingertips, and let the head straps hang loosely in front of the respirator.
STEP 3 Hold the mask in place while pulling the top strap over your head, resting it above your ears on the back of your head. Then pull the bottom strap over your head, and place it around the back of your neck, below your ears.
STEP 4 Using both hands, mold the nosepiece to your nose by pushing inward with your fingertips.
STEP 5 Cover the mask completely with both hands, and exhale sharply to check for positive pressure. If air blows on your face or eyes, readjust the mask or try a different size or model. If your mask doesn’t have a proper seal, it isn’t protecting you.
STEP 6 Inhale sharply to test negative pressure seal. The mask should press against your face firmly; if air leaks in from the edges, readjust the mask or try a different size or model. Again, a proper seal is needed to keep you protected.
278 KNOW THE PLAN
Places where communities commonly gather, work, and play often develop their own emergency and disaster plans. If you or your family spend time at any of these facilities, especially as a student, employee, or volunteer, take the time to learn about what plans are in place. Some entities will provide this information on their website, but others may require attending meetings or inquiring directly. By informing yourself, you can better plan for how you or a member of your family might be affected by a disaster or an emergency based on where they might be at the time.
Consider looking into the disaster plans of places that you frequent, such as schools, workplaces, churches, day-care centers, and neighborhood associations, as well as stadiums, recreation areas, municipalities, and counties.
Additionally, if you live near one of these facilities, being informed about how their emergency response may affect you can help you plan ahead, and they may have additional resources available to you if they have been structured as a community disaster partner.
If you’re not sure what to ask or look for in a plan, here are some good starting questions:
• What hazards, emergencies, or disasters are included?
• How are alerts and warnings issued?
• How often are plans updated, and is there a public review process to provide input?
• What are the local considerations for sheltering-in-place and evacuating?
• What else does the plan contain?
• Are plans available for download or review?
• Are there ways to learn more about preparedness?
279 BE A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST
If there is no plan in an organization, consider appealing to its leadership to create a plan. Also, consider asking how to get involved in the planning process. Plans for disasters are best made when there is input and involvement from various stakeholders. If your initial efforts to set up a communal planning process fail, turn to other members of your local community and encourage them to voice their concerns. Last, you can contact politicians, local news media, or social media to raise awareness and concern. Since the goal is to create a resilient community, if you reach out to others, this is a good way to find common ground and build consensus and collaboration.
280 LEND A HELPING HAND
Volunteering is a great way to contribute to your community in a time of need, but it can also provide you the opportunity to learn some new skills, get access to training, and practice so that when you need to use those skills you’ll be better prepared. Here are a few varieties of volunteer organizations and some of the skills you can learn from being involved.
AMATEUR RADIO EMERGENCY SERVICE (ARES)
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: HAM radio, emergency communications
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: Search and rescue, disaster relief
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT)
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: Light search and rescue, incident command, first aid, triage, fire safety, emergency response
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE (SKYWARN)
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: Storm spotting, severe weather assistance
RADIO AMATEUR CIVIL EMERGENCY SERVICE (RACES)
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: HAM radio, emergency communications
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: Disaster response, first aid, shelter operations
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES: Search and rescue, incident command
281 STUDY SOLAR FLARES
A solar flare occurs when magnetic energy builds up in the sun’s atmosphere and then suddenly released, thus emitting radiation across much of the electromagnetic spectrum. The amount of energy released can be massive—the equivalent of millions of thermonuclear bombs exploding simultaneously.
Flares are rated in various classes according to their intensity, similar to the Richter scale for earthquakes, in that each category is 10 times stronger than the one before it. A-, B-, and C-class flares have no significant impacts, but M-class eruptions can generate brief radio blackouts at the poles and cause minor radiation increases that can endanger orbiting astronauts. X-class flares, however, can potentially affect systems on a planet-wide scale, triggering a number of impacts on technology-dependent systems.
282 BE AWARE OF X-CLASS FLARES
The strongest class of solar flares can have a serious effect on technologically dependent systems, several of which can impact millions of people regionally or on large parts of the globe.
An X-class solar flare can disrupt GPS signals, thus hindering not only navigation critical to aviation, shipping, and personal use, but also global financial systems dependent on GPS signals to time-stamp transactions. Likewise, the flare can interrupt satellite-based TV, radio, Internet, and voice communications, such as satellite phones.
Electrical power grids can also suffer disruption from an X-class flare. While measures have been taken to prevent widespread problems, the distribution system may still be vulnerable.
Other impacts can include spacecraft anomalies as well as disruptions in telephone systems, public transportation systems, fuel distribution systems, pipelines and drilling, and air- and ship-based magnetic surveys.
283 PREPARE FOR SPACE WEATHER
Your general disaster-planning efforts will also apply to space weather, but, obviously, there is really nothing preventative possible, given the cosmic nature of the threat. Being aware of the impacts and making plans to cope with them are the best way to handle this particular type of disaster.
The three types of effects you are likely to deal with are blackouts, electronics failures, and GPS or communications disruptions. To cope with a lack of navigation, paper maps in your car disaster kit will aid your ability to navigate not only during a solar flare but anytime your GPS isn’t able to acquire a signal. Since communications will also likely be affected, having predesignated meeting places for members of your household allow you to convene even when you can’t directly communicate.
284 AVOID AN ACTIVE SHOOTER
The main difference between facing an active shooter in a public place and being home when you’re burglarized is that the former is actively—and often indiscriminately—trying to kill people rather than just committing robbery. These individuals are often current or former employees, and there are warning signs that you can be aware of.
Potential shooters may have unexplained absences (based in vague physical complaints), show resistance or overreaction to any changes in policy and procedures, or repeatedly violate company policies. They may mention severe financial difficulties or problems at home with increasing frequency, or bring domestic issues into the workplace. Potential shooters may display changes in personality: depression, severe mood swings or unstable emotional responses, or explosive outbursts with little to no provocation. They might also turn to increasing use of alcohol or illegal drugs, or show a noticeable decrease in attention to appearance and hygiene.
There may even be more direct, overt signs, such as suicidal or paranoid comments, or vague threats about “fixing things.” Potential shooters may mention previous violent incidents, empathize with people who committed acts of violence, or make unsolicited comments about guns, other dangerous weapons, or violent crimes.
If you notice any of these traits, report your concerns to your manager and human resources.
285 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM A SHOOTER
If you suspect a potential active shooter incident, you’ll have to quickly determine the best way to protect your own life. Your practice of situational awareness (see items 2) will be a big help when there is a known lethal threat. The priorities in an active shooter circumstance are “run,” then “hide,” and as a final measure, “fight.” Since the perpetrator is armed, you should only attempt to incapacitate the shooter as a last resort—and only when your life is in imminent danger. Regardless of how you react, report the incident to the police as soon as you safely can.
RUN
Note at least two exits to any facility you enter.
HIDE
If possible, find a place to hide that provides protection and not just concealment.
FIGHT
As a last resort, try to incapacitate the shooter.
RUN
Encourage others to escape, but don’t delay evacuating to discuss leaving with those who decide to stay.
HIDE
FIGHT
Commit to your actions, since your life may now depend on it.
RUN
Leave your belongings behind.
HIDE
Silence your cell phone or other electronics, such as radios or televisions.
FIGHT
Improvise weapons, throw objects, and yell.
RUN
HIDE
Remain still and quiet until police arrive and give you instructions.
FIGHT
Act with as much physical aggression as possible.
RUN
Warn and prevent others from entering the area as you leave. Do not attempt to move wounded people.
HIDE
FIGHT
286 TREAT A DANGEROUS PACKAGE WITH CARE
If you come across a suspicious package, you need to handle it with care, for your safety and others’.
STEP 1 If you suspect a powder, liquid, chemical, or biological agent, place the package in a plastic bag or some other type of container to prevent leakage of contents. If you do not suspect any of those substances, put the package down gently if held or, if it’s on a surface, leave it in place.
STEP 2 Restrict access to the room where the package is located.
STEP 3 If you’ve handled the package, wash your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading the substance. Avoid touching your face.
STEP 4 Notify management, security, or law enforcement personnel.
STEP 5 Create a list of people who were near the package. Be prepared to share the list with emergency responders.
287 KEEP CASH ON HAND
When power is lost or telecommunications are down in your area, credit or debit cards will be useless. Checks might not be accepted either, leaving cash as the only way to buy supplies and food after a disaster. Here are some general guidelines to consider for where and how much to keep on hand. Carry the maximum amount you feel comfortable with and can afford. Also, by keeping amounts of cash in different places, it’s unlikely that you’ll lose all of your funds if you misplace one stash or get robbed.
THE BOTTOM LINE: Carry enough emergency funds to get you home safely.
THE BOTTOM LINE: This is the backup in case you accidently spend the emergency money in your wallet or purse.
THE BOTTOM LINE: Carry enough to fill up the tank at least once.
THE BOTTOM LINE: For when you’re stranded at your office, keep enough to take a taxi or other transport home.
THE BOTTOM LINE: This stash goes toward general emergency funds for supplies.
THE BOTTOM LINE: Secure enough for each person in your household to buy food, gas, and other critical post-disaster supplies.
THE BOTTOM LINE: Use when an extended disaster delays power and infrastructure for several weeks. Store enough for a month’s worth of supplies.
288 SECURE YOUR CASH
One of the challenges in keeping cash at home is being able to hide it someplace where criminals won’t find it easily. There is no perfect hiding place, but there are some options that are less prone to being easily found.
FREEZE IT Put the cash in a freezer bag, then wrap it up in tinfoil and label it “meatloaf” or something similar, as a fairly innocuous way to hide your valuables.
HIDE IN PLAIN SIGHT You can find safes resembling everyday items such as soda cans, deodorant, or cleaning products. They can’t be locked, and don’t hold very much, but they hide well out in the open.
KEEP IT SAFE A waterproof and fireproof safe is the best option if you want to properly secure your cash. Just be sure to anchor your safe so that it isn’t easily carried off by potential thieves.
FAKE IT You can build or buy pre-made facades for wall switches, vents, drains, and other normal- looking home infrastructure in which to hide your valuables.
289 AUTOMATE YOUR CASH FLOW
Paying your bills can be a hassle even under conventional circumstances, but in a disaster it might be impossible. The same will go for trying to deposit a check from your employer. The postal service might not even deliver mail. All this means that important bills and hard-earned pay may not be getting taken care of. If your employer offers it, enroll in a direct deposit program to remove the hassle of lost checks. Also, consider using your bank’s bill pay system to automatically handle all of your bills, including your mortgage, car payments, and credit card minimum payments so that, in an emergency, you won’t also have to deal with worrying about your credit score.
290 PROTECT IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
There are plenty of personal documents that, if they get lost, can cause problems and a lot of hassle to replace. It’s helpful to keep electronic copies in cloud storage, but in the case of some important documents you’ll need originals. Investing in a fireproof, waterproof document safe is an excellent way to protect those papers in the event of a disaster. Since you should keep your previous year’s taxes in this collection, you can review and update all documents when you file your taxes. Here is list of recommended documents for you to review and consider.
IDENTITY
Driver’s license • Other photo ID, including military • Birth certificate(s) • Social Security card(s) • Passport(s) and green card(s) • Naturalization documents • Child identity cards/dental records/DNA swabs
Adoption papers • Child custody documents • Marriage license • Divorce license
Proof of pet ownership and registration papers • Pet microchip information
Property/homeowner’s/renter’s insurance (including riders) • Auto insurance • Life insurance
FINANCES
Financial accounts (checking, savings, CDs) • Home equity line of credit • Loans, including student and car • Credit card accounts • Retirement accounts (401k, IRA) • Investment accounts (stocks, bonds, mutual funds) • Previous year’s tax returns (federal, state, and local)
Lease or rental agreement • Mortgage or real estate deeds of trust • Professional appraisals of personal property • Property tax statement
Wills and trusts • Power(s) of attorney
Record of immunizations • Living will or Do Not Resuscitate orders
Military discharge record (DD Form 214) • Vehicle registration and title
291 PLAN TO BE PREPARED
Various circumstances can lead you to a place where you are caught off guard and unprepared for the disaster at hand. You might be in an unfamiliar area or have to deal with an emergency you hadn’t thought possible. Your plans may be overcome by new events and are now no longer current, or the support you had counted on is no longer available. Whatever happens, remain calm and use all your senses to stay safe and survive. Don’t waste time and energy chastising yourself for what you should’ve done to better prepare. Stay focused and alert. Employing redundancy, being resilient, and having general survival priorities will improve your chances of getting through whatever sudden ordeal you might be facing.
292 BACK UP YOUR PLANS
Regardless of whether you’re creating emergency plans, stockpiling supplies, selecting equipment, or learning skills, you should have layers of redundancy just in case something fails. This means that when you’re making plans, you should also design a plan B whenever reasonably possible. If there are other obvious options, consider coming up with multiple backup plans. It’s impossible to plan for every contingency, but having several preplanned options can make the stress of an emergency easier to deal with, provided the plans are not so detailed as to burden you in the moment. You should also look at other resources in this way. Having multiple ways to treat water to make it safe to drink isn’t just prudent; it may mean the difference between survival and tragedy. Skills should ideally not have a single point of failure either, so get yourself—and your loved ones—trained in first aid and other needed life-safety skills. In the end, as the famous Franz Kafka quote goes, it’s “better to have, and not need, than to need, and not have.”
293 BE RESILIENT
People with very few skills and almost no gear have survived seemingly insurmountable scenarios, simply because they had the right mindset to endure. These individuals tend to have some qualities in common that you can develop on your own. If you practiced them in lesser circumstances, they’ll shine under the harsh light of adversity.
BE STRONG The strength of your will and the toughness of your mindset can trump physical prowess in survival situations. You must be willing to handle harsh conditions and suffering, and overcome personal weakness with a “do whatever it takes” attitude in order for you to prevail under the most extreme circumstances and events.
STAY MOTIVATED A common theme found in many survival stories is the survivor’s devotion to a higher power or their intense desire to get back to family, friends, and loved ones. The ability to tap in to this kind of intense personal motivation is the mental aspect that keeps people going beyond all hope or reason.
LEARN TO ADAPT Adaptability and survival have always been closely related. The ability to adapt to changing events, challenges, and environments is one of the most impressive and necessary parts of a survivor’s state of mind. It’s tough to have to abandon a course of action, and it’s very possible to fall into a fixed mindset or develop tunnel vision. If your approach isn’t working, however, it’s time to come up with a new way to handle the problem.
294 SET YOUR PRIORITIES
When you find yourself in a situation you are not prepared for, particularly when those circumstances appear especially dangerous, you’ll need to focus on the right priorities in the right order to ensure your survival.
ADJUST YOUR ATTITUDE Remaining resilient is a chosen state of mind and necessary for survival.
GET FIRST AID Nothing else matters until a serious injury is treated or the victim is in the hands of a competent medical care provider.
TAKE SHELTER Protection from the elements is especially important in extreme weather conditions.
WARM UP Fire is critical for warmth, cooking, and signaling. Gather fuel and build a fire before darkness falls.
COMMUNICATE Try restoring electronic communications as well as making use of signaling devices such as mirrors, smoke, or marker dye.
FIND WATER A reliable water source is even more urgent when the weather is hot and dry.
FIND FOOD It is critical to be prepared by storing rations to see you and your family through a sustained emergency. If you run out, reaching out to friends and neighbors and may be your best option, or even foraging for edible plants, if you know what to look for.