Author: Eric Vanderham

Every person and family should have established their own individual emergency plan based on future possibilities of unexpected catastrophes such as forces of nature. Many of us live in locations prone to earthquakes, Midwest tornadoes, southern hurricane seasons, flood zones, tsunami coastal areas, and even active volcanoes. The students learn what to do in the school building if an earthquake strikes, but we need a pro-action emergency plan for our home environment.

Go over the following list with your children and spouse to cover the following:

- contact person in and out of town.
- health information and where documents are stored.
- a meeting place to reunite with family members in case of separation.
- a designated person to pick up the children if you are unable to.
- decisions regarding the pets during an emergency and their priority compared to people safety. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but if you have all the standard pet safety plans in place, at least you know you have done what you can to take care of the pet.
- what to do with pets and their place of priority in the family, i.e. emphasis on people before pets for safety. This is a touchy subject until you have lost a loved one and realize the devastation that is compared to a beloved pet. See more information on this on my site.

9-1-1 calls: Teach your family when to call these services and when to call the services in the phone book. 9-1-1 is for reporting fires, reporting crimes, and when saving a life.

In an emergency, follow the plan, take the emergency kit which should have been organized ahead of time, keep tuned in to the radio and television for alerts and evacuation orders, stay at home until all is safe or evacuation is ordered.

One of the biggest mistakes we make is forgetting about another person being designated to pick up family members. A password for children should be assigned, in order for them to know when it is okay to go with another person. This password should be frequently tested in order to ensure it is still in their minds. They need to know they cannot share this password with anyone. Its hilarious providing scenarios and seeing them handle themselves with a password, but in real life, it is not funny if they are vulnerable to leave with someone they shouldn't. Practice scenarios so they know what to do regardless of what the person tells them.

The 72-hour emergency plan is a worldwide disaster planning phrase that allows people to think of what they would need for the initial three day period and to be absolutely ready and stocked with supplies for that time period.
 
Part of an emergency plan is identifying safe areas in the home in the event such as an earthquake. Identify heavy furniture to drop under and hide, how to cover your head and torso to protect from flying objects and heavy items falling, windows and outer walls to stay away from. If you are outdoors, stay away from trees, walls, power lines and other buildings. If you are driving, stay away from bridges, buildings, power lines, and stay in the car off the side of the road until the tremors have ceased.

Radio Stations " a decent radio should be able to pick up on AM 530 " 1710 khz, FM 88 " 108 mhz, Shortwave 3 -12 mhz with antenna.

Television Stations " VHF channels and Weather Alert channels.

Do you have an emergency plan in place for yourself and your family members? Are they aware ofwhat to do at home or away if disaster strikes? Some smart planning can give peace of mind and possibly save their lives. emergency plan

 
 

Author: Bill Holton

Although many over-the-counter and prescription drugs can be used to treat pain in humans and animals, pet owners who use non-prescription pain relievers for dogs or cats can jeopardize their pet's health and life.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) said drug poisoning is the most common cause of small animal poison exposure. AVMA cautions pet owners to contact a veterinarian before giving a pet any medication. It may not be safe for pets. In addition, dogs don't utilize or tolerate drugs the same way humans do so a drug that relieves pain in humans can poison a dog or cat.

Acetaminophen is not safe for cats. This drug is broken down by enzymes in the liver and cats don't have enough of the necessary enzymes to do this job. Incomplete breakdown results in dangerous products that can damage blood and tissue cells. Two extra-strength tablets can kill a cat and lesser mounts can cause clinical signs of poisoning.

Dogs, particularly small dogs, can also experience significant tissue damage from as little as two regular strength acetaminophen tablets. Signs of distress can appear quickly, especially if the dose is repeated, including salivation, vomiting, weakness and abdominal pain.

NSAIDs are widely prescribed by veterinarians to relieve pain, especially muscle and joint pain. The doses they recommend for animals are lower than the doses that people normally take. Caution is advised since these drugs can reduce the mucous protection of the stomach and lead to ulcers. It can damage the kidneys and other organs by reducing blood flow to these organs, and suppress bone marrow; leading to bleeding disorders.

Many NSAIDs relieve the pain of arthritis by inhibiting prostaglandin production in painful joints. However, they can poison or kill a dog with a prostaglandin-dependent disease such as heart failure, liver failure, dehydration, diarrhea, diabetes mellitus, urinary obstruction or kidney disease. In addition, ibuprofen and naproxen metabolize slowly, increasing the risk that toxic levels will be reached.

Some ibuprofen tablets are coated with sugar to appeal to dogs. Symptoms of ibuprofen toxicity include digestive upset, bloody stool, depression, staggering, increased thirst, increased frequency of urination, liver disease, kidney disease and seizures. Call a veterinarian or an emergency clinic for instructions if you believe your pet is poisoned. If no one is available or close, try to induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide. Mix one teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide with one teaspoon of milk and offer it to the dog. If it won't drink (or if there's no milk available), use a plastic eye dropper or dosage syringe to administer the dose. If vomiting doesn't occur within 10 minutes, repeat the dose.

Symptoms of acetaminophen poisoning are listlessness, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea and dark-colored urine. A veterinarian's expertise is essential and immediate first aid is required.

If your dog or cat suffers from arthritis pain, don't make it suffer any longer. Relieve joint pain, lubricate the joints, increase flexibility and improve mobility with this <a target='_blank' href='http://www.painfreepets.info '>best canine pain relief</a>.

Cheryl L. True is a Manila-based freelance writer who writes on a variety of topics.

 
 

For Californians and those living along the west coast, all the way up to British Columbia, earthquake preparedness is something taught at schools and homes. The rest of the country except those living in major fault zones may not be as familiar with what to do in the event of one.

Earthquakes result from small and large tectonic plates in the earth's crust. These plates are moving constantly and result in small tremors as well as earthquakes of varied magnitudes. The earthquake results in deep or shallow crevices that of course can be disastrous to whatever was on the ground prior to the crevice forming.

Can earthquakes be predicted? There are some making bold statements that they cannot, but looking at the most recent prediction from the now famous seismologist Giacchino Giulini about the earthquake about to hit Laquila, Italy, we know that he is likely going to be offered many top notch positions for his ability to announce when a major earthquake was about to occur. Unfortunately he was not taken seriously and the quake hit this April, 2009 killing many and leaving many thousands homeless. He was not looking at the stars for fun, but had been making a study on the area and its proneness for earthquakes based on radon gas buildup in areas with seismic activity. He was with the National Institute of Astrophysics by the way.

Many of us have experienced small tremors and lower magnitude earthquakes that moved beneath us and shook our balance somewhat, but for some people, their biggest fear at night is whether a big earthquake will hit their area again. In the 1994 California earthquake, homes were left in complete ruins from that earthquake and we can safely say that more than the floors moved that day, as homes were almost completely in collapsed disarray. Large earthquakes can result in swaying of the high rise building you are in, floors moving, a rolling motion to the floor as if you are on a boat, furniture sliding or falling, unsecured fixtures dropping, and fire and sprinkler systems automatically setting off. Windows may shatter. There may be a roaring sound. It is not an amusing time.

Prepare for an Earthquake:
Does it help to prepare? Absolutely yes, it can make a difference. Those decisions we make in advance can save lives, ours and others.

- Teach everyone in the family or building, how to shut off the electricity and water. Label the switches and fasten a wrench by the natural gas tank so it will be handy for use.

- Secure heavy appliances such as stoves and fridges.
 
- Keep flammable solvents away from heat sources.
 
- Keeping curtains closed will prevent shattered glass from ejecting your way.

- Use safety latches to prevent cupboards from automatically opening up during tremors.

- For people owning mobile homes, consult with the manufacturer if necessary about having a structural brace included in order to limit the chances of the trailer falling off the supports.

- Don't hang heavy pictures and mirrors above the bed. That velvet painting of the Beatles that you bought thirty years ago would hopefully be ruined but we don't want you to be.
 
When Earthquakes Hit:

Indoors:
- follow the rules of Drop, Cover and Hold. This means to drop down on the ground under heavy furniture, cover your head and hold onto the heavy furniture or whatever you have dropped under so that you have its protection over you. Drop down flat against an interior wall if you cannot get under heavy furniture. Turn away from windows. For those in wheelchairs, secure the locks of the chair, and protect the back of your head and neck. If you are in an elevator, hit the button for every floor and get out as soon as it opens.

Outdoors:
- Stop the vehicle you are in once you have pulled over to the side away from traffic. Avoid underpasses, overpasses, bridges and anything that could collapse. You do not want to bring more risk to yourself. Listen to the radio for instructions from emergency personnel. If you are on the coast, realize that a tsunami can result from an earthquake so you have double trouble to be aware of. The other secondary effects from an earthquake could be landslides, flooding in low areas.

After an Earthquake:
- It is not necessarily over. You may experience aftershocks resulting in more tremors.

- Do not enter your home if there is structural damage. Check the area around it first before entering.

- If tap water is still running, fill up as many containers including tub and sinks as possible, because the water supply may be stopped from the earthquake damage. Don't flush toilets if you think the sewer lines have been damaged.

- It is very important to remember not to light up with matches or lighters if there is the odor of gas from gas leaks or flammable materials leaking from containers.

- Form a neighborhood group who can organize searches and ensure other neighbors are safe and taken care of. It takes a community to raise a child, and a community to stay alive sometimes.

For those of us not living on the west coast, we sometimes take for granted the absence of earthquake forecasting. Some of us need a quickreminder to teach ourselves and our families what to do in the event of an earthquake. Earthquake Preparedness 101

 
 

People are often surprised when someone is injured around the home from a poison, toxin or hazard.  I am sure you have heard some stories.  If you have young children you should be especially vigilant in making sure your home is safe.

The 2nd leading cause of accidental death is due to accidental poisoning.  Ninty-two percent of the reported poison exposure happens in the home according to The American Association of Poison Control Centers.  With facts like these we must take precautions.

Awareness is key to prevention.  Many do not even know that mixing chemicals can be extremely hazardous.  It can cause burns, blindness, brain damage and even death.  This is something we need to be aware of and keep in mind at all times.

If someone ingests a chemical and they seem to be in good shape call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.  Keep this number close by the phone.  If they are have a serious reaction of course call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

To prevent carbon monoxide you should have every gas burning appliance checked each year for proper operation.  Carbon monoxide is the silent killer.  It is a odorless and colorless gas.  You should have carbon monoxide detectors through out your home.

Pay attention to labels.  If it says warning , hazardous, poisonous read it, find out why.  Keep any chemicals, cleaning products, cosmetics and medications in child proof cabinets away from children.  Many people who do not have children do not practice this, but at one time or another you are likely to have a child in your home.

Keep garages and storage areas safe.  Always clean up spills.  Keep products in their original containers.  Products like fertilizer, anti freeze, pesticides and swimming pool chemicals can cause serious burns and fires. 

Be proactive in and around your home to make sure it is safe for yourself, your children and pets as well as for the people that visit your home.  Pay attention to your surroundings and warnings.  Never question a chemical always treat it as a poison and read labels.
 
contact agent and friend Jeff Cline if you are looking for insurance quotes. Jeff is dedicated to staying on top of the best products out there. He can help you find suitable health insurance for all, no matter your situation. contact him all day, everyday at his toll free number 866-526-9669

 
 

No matter where you live, you aren't immune to the effects of disasters, whether it's a blizzard, fire, earthquake, hurricane, tornado or terrorist attack. This is why it's important to have a disaster preparedness plan in place - one that includes your pets.

Good disaster planning takes every possibility into consideration. For example, if you're out and a flood takes out a road leading to your home, who will care for your pets until you get home? Plan ahead of time by arranging for a trusted neighbor, who is frequently home, to check on your pets. This person should have a key to your home and know where the pet food is kept.

Warnings are often issued hours, sometimes even days, ahead of time. At the first sign of an impending disaster, put your plan into effect.

Bring your pet indoors so you don't have to search for them at the last minute and make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars with securely fastened and up-to-date identification tags.

Many disasters require you to evacuate your home, and perhaps your region, for an unknown amount of time. Just as you wouldn't leave your children or spouse behind, you can't leave your pet.

One reason not to leave pets behind is because those left inside can escape through storm-damaged areas such as broken windows. These animals are left to fend for themselves and will become victims of exposure, starvation, predators, contaminated water or food or accidents.

Being forced to flee your home in chaotic circumstances may cause you to forget to pack some very important items such as medications. Make a kit beforehand and store it in an easy-to-remember and quick-to-reach location.

If you can't leave and have to ride the storm out in your house, identify a safe area (i.e. the basement) where you, your family and pets can all be together.

Keep dogs on leashes and ensure they are wearing collars with proper ID tags. Have all medications, pet food and water inside airtight containers along with other emergency supplies.

Your home will most likely be a very different place following the disaster. For the first few days, keep dogs on leashes and cats in carriers inside the house. If your home is damaged, your pets could escape and become lost.
 
Try to return to a regular routine as quickly as possible and be prepared for possible behavioral changes as a result of stress from the situation.

Are you losing your pets to accidents? Do they wander and never return? Show them that you care. Keep your pets safe from harm with the petsafe wireless pet fence.  Cheryl L. True is a Manila-based freelance writer who writes on a variety of topics.

 
 

Excerpt:
...Another aspect of the portable gas powered generator that can't be overlooked is that it can be used by anyone that is partial to outdoor living. With a generator you can have many of the devices and appliances you take for granted at home, even though you are supposedly roughing it in the wilds...Read entire post

In colder climes, snowstorms can also wreak havoc on utility services. If there is a power outage in the middle of a cold winter then a portable gas powered generator is vital to keep your heating systems running whilst work is done to reestablish the grid power...Read entire post

 
 

Author: Eric Vanderham

Why does the idea of having enough food for emergency preparedness keep many of us worrying at night? After all, many of us live in countries where there is a lot of food in the stores, enough to see us through emergencies. The problem is that natural disasters, power outages, and living in remote areas can deter our ability to get to the stores. Even the recent volcano eruptions and earthquakes have limited the transportation needed to allow people into towns. Some people won't have the cash or access to bank machines or debit cards when needed.

Some people spend a lot of time buying, packaging, labelling and storing food for long-term solutions for emergency preparedness. I cannot disparage these efforts as the intentions are good. The problem is that the food quality and safety expires and the family has to eat the supplies prior to that time, and replace those foods. There are many of us who do not have the time nor the inclination to plan ... read full post

 
 

We have seen how nature can surprise us in a bad way. Think about the past hurricanes that hit and devastated the country, Andrew, Ivan, and Katrina. All three are considered as among the most destructive hurricanes to ever hit the United States. We have seen the effects and how people suffered. If there's one positive thing that we got from such experiences, it's the importance we place on storm preparation like planning for long term food storage.

Emergency food storage is a very essential part of emergency preparedness. Food and water are the main concerns by families. In times of crisis, these are the two things that may become hard to access so it's best to have your own supply.

You need to maintain your strength during a crisis. And you can only do this by proper nutrition intake. Remember, no matter what's happening around, you must not disregard proper nutrition. This wouldn't be a problem if you have food storage that can sustain you for a long period of time.

Effects of a disaster can run for a long time so it's important to plan for it. A long term food storage plan will up your chances of making it through a crisis successfully. Store bulk staple foods as well as a variety of dried and canned foods in your storage. Wheat, beans, and corns can be purchased in bulk amounts, which save you some money compared to buying them in retail. In addition, these items have a long shelf life, meaning they won't spoil easily.

In worst case scenarios, you can survive on small amounts of these staple foods. Aside from dried and canned foods, you can also stock on packaged mixes, freeze-dried foods, and other items you can buy from the grocery stores. You can also store rice, cereals, pasta mixes, and dried fruits. Camping and sporting equipment stores usually sell freeze-dried foods.

If you have an infant at home, make sure that you have the right formula, or at the very least, some formula in case pharmacies and grocery stores are shut down by disaster.

Greg Shuey is a food storage planner and facilitator. He helps families and individuals know what they need to get for food storage long term and shows them how to do it inexpensively. Visit our site INeedFoodStorage.com for food storage long term today!