The past few days, January 28-30, 2014, have demonstrated that the weather patterns are not required to follow predictions of meteorologists. Anniston and Birmingham were to have a "dusting" not 2 inches of snow and frozen, icy roads. But we did! People were stranded in vehicles for more than 24 hours in many cases on the side of the road. It was too far to safely walk for help in the below zero windchill and in some cases, no one knew where they were. Scary right!
So, for those of you who have made fun of me for keeping a blanket, big coat, crackers and bottled water in my trunk...PFHTHFSST! There I said it. I can't spell it, but I said it. Being prepared for unexpected events is not easy because well, they're unexpected. Think about worst case scenarios and try to be comfortable in them. Cold, wet, hot...you get the picture.
- A basic First Aid Kit - Commercially available
- Water - several bottles of water. You need to stay hydrated in cold and hot environments
- Snacks - Granola bars, dried fruit, crackers, almonds, jelly cups (grab an extra at the restaurant), canned sandwich spread meat, V-8, sports drinks
- Hygiene Items - Tissues, Toilet tissue, hand sanitizer, tooth brush / tooth paste (if you feel better you respond better), Zip-lock bags to dispose of questionable items in, trash bags (make excellent covers for many situations), feminine items, baby wipes (after a while you need a bath!)
- Survival - (Don't roll your eyes at me!) Flash light, Chem glow sticks, extra batteries, Duct tape (Google / You Tube how many things you can do with duct tape), Fleece blankets (can be rolled for a pillow, fashioned into a splint, pad hard spots to sleep on & yes can be used to cover up with if you get cold), multi-tool, large knife (box cutter works), hand / foot warmers, gloves, head cover, coat, para cord (see ( ) for duct tape), Reflective survival blanket, Extra cash / coins (ATM may not work), Phone numbers written down on a piece of paper (we used this in the olden days!)
- Sanity - Bible, book, pad pf paper, pen / pencil, disposable camera, ear plugs, lip balm, cards, phone charger
- Auto - Jumper cable, fix-a-flat, small tool kit, zip-ties
With a little trial and error, these items can be packed into a very small space in your trunk or back of your SUV. If you get stuck on the side of the road, you will be much better off having these items. Of course, the best plan is to not be stranded at all, but what if you get stuck at work? Go to your car and break out your gear. Then everyone will be jealous of how prepared you are!
I have to say, I have used items out of my stash at ball games, family reunions, roadside breakdowns and many situations that were in no way an emergency. It is nice to know you have resources.
Just to clear up the question..."Yes. Yes I was in the Boy Scouts."
"Be Prepared" is the motto of the Boy Scouts of America.
Thanks Mr. Hagood!
