Getting your vehicle ready for winter driving conditions is relatively easy and inexpensive. One factor that is often overlooked is the importance of maintaining correct pressure in your tires. Maintaining the proper pressure helps optimize fuel economy and tire performance. In fact, correct tire pressure boosts ride comfort along with performance and durability of your tires.  Under inflated tires can compromise both safety and fuel-efficiency.
One of the important external factors governing tire pressure is temperature change. In fact, for every 10-degree change in temperature, a tire can lose approximately one pound per square inch (PSI). So, while your tires were properly inflated all summer, they now will require additional air to maintain the proper pressure as the temperature begins to fall. 

Winter Driving Preparedness

Sometimes the best tip for winter driving is just to stay at home, or at least remain where you are until snow plows and sanding trucks have had time to do their work. If you chance driving in a heavy storm and crash on a snowy or icy road, you’ll certainly be late arriving at your destination anyway or maybe not at all.
But since you can’t always call take a day off, it’s better to learn how to correctly deal with driving in the snow.

The most important thing you can do before anything else is to prepare your vehicle for winter by stocking it with necessary supplies and performing normal maintenance. 

Things Every Car Needs in the Winter

•Chains or winter-specific tires (called “winter tires” by tire makers) are necessary to provide adequate snow traction. These tires provide superior traction over all-season tires.
Winter tires are best for drivers that will have to face snowy roads for several months. Drivers that won’t see a lot of snow may opt to carry chains that can be applied to their all-season tires in an emergency.
High-performance “summer” tires have little or no grip in snow. If your vehicle has this type of tire, consider changing them now before the first snow.
When you buy winter tires, buy four. 

•Good wiper blades are a must for winter driving. This is a quick and easy fix that can make a huge difference in the safety of your vehicle. There’s nothing worse than turning on your wipers only to find that six months of sun have rendered them virtually worthless in a snow storm.  Make sure your windshield washer system works and is full of an anti-icing fluid and clean the inside of your windows thoroughly. This will help when visibility is poor. Consider carrying an extra bottle of windshield fluid in your vehicle.

•Keep your gas tank at the very least half-full. (most important if you are stranded in your vehicle.

• Charged cell phone with 12 volt charger

• Have a good spare tire, wheel wrench and proper jack for your vehicle.

•Blankets or warm clothing. These should always be in your car, but are doubly important to have in the winter. Don’t forget your warm gloves.

•Fresh radiator antifreeze. Make sure that your engine coolant levels are correct and that your fluid is ready for the winter.

•A “Survival Kit” such as the Deluxe Auto Emergency Kit. This kit should always remain in the vehicle and it contains sufficient equipment to help you through an emergency situation. Replenish after use.

•Non-perishable, high energy foods like unsalted canned nuts, dried fruits, hard candy or an emergency food and drinking water kit. These food and water kits have a 5-year shelf life.

• An emergency supply of any necessary medications. You may be away from home longer than you think.

•Wooden stick matches in a waterproof container or a Zippo Lighter.

 Driving In Snow and Ice:

 First and foremost, always adjust your driving speed to existing conditions. If you adjust your speed to the prevailing road conditions, the four key elements of winter driving become easier to master.
They elements are steering, acceleration, braking and skid control.

The key is to use smooth inputs of the steering wheel, the accelerator and the brake.

Steering:
Initial movement of the steering wheel is important. Begin turning the wheel gently, then accelerate the rate of motion once the turn is initiated, if it is necessary.
Too much steering is bad. If a slick section in a turn causes your front tires to lose grip, the common — but incorrect reaction is to continue turning the steering wheel, causing the tire to lose additional traction.  
A little bit of steering goes a very long way in an emergency.

Acceleration:
The first few fractions of an inch of pedal travel are critical.  Start slowly; once the vehicle is rolling, increase pressure on the accelerator; keep it below the wheel-spin threshold.

Braking:
Brake before you turn into a corner, steer through the corner at a safe speed, and then accelerate again when you straighten out of it. Do not accelerate or brake when in a turn.

Skid Control:
If your car begins to skid remember to look and steer where you want to go!
Counter steer into a skid as necessary, but do not shift the transmission and stay off the brake and gas pedals.

Other Winter Driving Hints:

•It is a good idea to let someone know your travel route and when you are expected to arrive.

• Be careful not to waste battery power when engine is not running. Balance electricity energy needs: the use of lights, heat and radio.

•Be extra alert on residential streets. Snowdrifts can hide children or other vehicles.

•Give snow plows plenty of room to do their job safely. Be patient and follow at a safe distance.

• Be watchful for “black ice.” If the road ahead looks slick, it probably is.
Bridges, areas in the shade, off-ramps, and intersections are all likely areas for black ice. Be cautious when approaching these areas, and be alert for any sudden loss of traction. Black Ice is most prevalent in the early morning hours. Test the traction with a smooth brake application when safe to do so.

•There is absolutely nothing more dangerous than freezing rain on a roadway. While uncommon in most areas, when freezing rain occurs, roads become virtual skating rinks. Avoid all driving during freezing rain conditions, if possible.

•Remember, using handheld cell phones or other devices quadruples the chance of an accident.

•Children who weigh less than 80 pounds and use adult seatbelts are almost four times more likely to be seriously injured in vehicle crashes than kids riding in booster seats. Make sure young children use an approved child seat. 

If You Do Become Stranded:
Even after proceeding very carefully and applying all of your driving skills, you still find yourself stranded.  You may be stuck in a parking lot late at night, alongside a desolate rural road, or even in a ditch.
This is where the preparation that was mentioned earlier becomes a major factor.

• Do not leave your car unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to help, and are certain you will improve your situation by leaving.
• To attract attention, light two flares and place one at each end of the car a safe distance away and hang a brightly colored cloth from your antenna.
• After checking for a blocked exhaust pipe, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so depending upon the amount of gas in the tank. (glad you fill the tank now, aren’t you)
  Check for snow blocked exhaust pipe regularly.
• To protect yourself from hypothermia use woollen clothes and blankets to keep warm in your vehicle.
• Keep at least one window open slightly for ventilation while running heater.
• Raise the hood to indicate you need help, after snow stops falling. 

By preparing ourselves and our vehicles for winter driving now, before we are involved in a winter storm emergency, we will all be more confident of surviving winter’s worst.

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Presently there are two strains of flu, seasonal flu and the H1N1 (Swine) flu, that are circulating here in the USA. The seasonal flu usually starts during the fall and continues through early spring. This is the flu that we are all familiar with, however the H1N1 is a new strain that we have not seen before. The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to seasonal flu, but are more severe and may include additional symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Who is at Risk?
Everyone is at risk of contracting the flu virus, both the seasonal and the N1H1 virus.
Most healthy people recover from the flu without problems, but certain people are at a high risk than others for serious complications.
Those at higher risk and therefore need to be more cautious include:

• Pregnant women
• People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age.
• Emergency medical personnel and Health care workers.
• Those 65 and older.
• Anyone between 6 months and 24 years old.
• People 25 through 64 who have a chronic health disorder or reduced immune systems.

How does the Flu spread from person to person?

The H1N1 virus is spread from person-to-person in the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread; by contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person.

• This can occur by direct bodily contact or touching something with virus on it (shaking hands with a person who has the flu) and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
• Respiratory droplets are generated by a person coughing or sneezing near you coming into contact with your mouth, nose or eyes, as in an elevator or other enclosed area.

How do I protect myself?

First of all everyone should get vaccinated against both the Seasonal and H1N1. The Flu shot is the easy, effective and inexpensive way to protect yourself and your family from catching the flu virus. Recommended personal protective measures include:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away immediately in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze or have been in public places.  Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Have and use a personal flu kit when there is a risk of exposure to respiratory droplets from an infected person and when travelling.
• If you are sick, avoid public interaction as much as possible until 24 hours after signs and symptoms have ended without fever-reducing medications.
• Stop smoking to help prevent severe, life-threatening complications from the flu. Use your Zippo Lighter to start a Zippo Lighter Collection, not to light that cigarette.
• If weather permits, open windows to keep rooms well ventilated and air fresh.

Can I improve my Immune System?

There are a number of ways to improve the efficiency of your immune system. These include:

• Eating well.  A diet rich in vegetables and containing items known for their immune system benefits (mushrooms, broccoli and probiotics) can go a long way in helping you protect yourself. As foods rich in Vitamin D are rare, it is a good idea to take 1,000 UI of Vitamin D (400 UI for children) per day.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Stop drinking Coffee and reduce refined white sugar from your diet to boost your immune system. Caffeine robs your body of minerals and vitamins.
• Get sufficient Sleep. Many studies have shown that a lack of sleep hurts immunity to some illnesses.
• Be active every day. Active people are generally less affected by the flu than those that are sedentary.
• Staying clean. Regular hand washing and the disinfecting of objects touched regularly (phones, computer keyboards, door handles etc.) remains the best first line of defence against contracting infections.

Is there an end in sight?

While it is difficult to predict how the H1N1 flu will pan out, it now appears that the virus is coming in waves. Keep in mind, seasonal flu typically arrives in November and peaks in January-February. Therefore, it is still going to be important to take precautions into the spring.

Remember, the H1N1 vaccination remains the best way of protecting yourself against this influenza virus.

First Aid Kit Products; for all your Emergency Preparedness Products.

This is also the beginning of the storm season. After a quiet start to 2009 Hurricane season, three storms have started in just 30 hours.
You and your family’s safety depend to a large extent on what you do now, before there is a storm on your horizon. Planning and preparation are the two most powerful survival tools at your disposal, and it is simply unwise not to make full use of them. To this end, be sure to have a comprehensive first aid / emergency kit close by.

A first aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment necessary to provide immediate care to an injured or ill person before treatment by medically trained personnel. The kit will be made up of different contents depending on the place where the kit will be used and the number of persons it needs to protect. Will it just be your family at the cottage, or will there be extra guests?

It is recommended that your first aid kit be assembled in a clean, waterproof container to keep the contents safe and aseptic. Most kits come in durable plastic boxes, fabric pouches or in wall mounted cabinets. The type of container will vary depending on where they will be used and will range in size from pocket sized through to large backpacks. A wall mounted first aid cabinet would be perfect at home or cottage, but a fabric bag would be better suited in your vehicle.

First aid kits available through your local stores are generally intended for treatment of very minor injuries only. Typical contents include adhesive bandages, gauze and a disinfectant. Specialized first aid kits are available for various locations and activities, and will focus on specific risks related to that activity.
For example, first aid kits designed for use in a boat will contain seasickness remedies. Kits designed for industrial applications will contain burn medication and a suitable infection barrier for performing artificial respiration. They will also have larger quantities of supplies to treat multiple victims.

Trauma injuries, such as bleeding from cuts and scrapes, bone fractures or burns, are usually the main focus of most first aid kits designed for the home; however these kits are also practical for use while traveling, at the cottage or during a disaster related evacuation. These kits will include:

Adhesive bandages
Adhesive tape
Sterile Dressings (applied directly to wound)
Sterile eye pads
Sterile gauze pads
Antiseptic wipes or sprays
Sterile non-adherent pads, containing a non-stick Teflon layer
Triple antibiotics
Bandages (non-sterile for securing dressings)
Gauze roller bandages
Elastic bandages (used for sprains)
Triangular bandages (used as slings, tourniquets and to tie splints)
Blood stoppers, to promote clotting for severe bleeding.
Butterfly closure strips (to close wounds)
CPR mouth piece
Splints, to stabilize broken bones
Burn dressing (sterile pad, soaked in a cooling gel)
Gloves (disposable)
Trauma shears, for cutting clothing and general use
Tweezers
Alcohol pads (sterilizing equipment)
Flashlight
Instant-acting chemical cold packs
Alcohol rubs or antiseptic hand wipes (hand sanitizer)
Thermometer
Emergency blanket
First Aid Booklet (Read the entire booklet so you’ll understand how to use the contents of your kit)

It is an excellent idea to include Aspirin, primarily used for central medical chest pain, as an anti-coagulant and Acetaminophen for pain relief.
Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as Ibuprofen can also be used in the case of a strained joint.
Don’t forget extra prescription medications if you are going away for your vacation.

Remember to check the contents of all of your kits regularly and replace the items that have been used before you need them again.

While there is no way to predict when and where an injury or natural disaster may occur, being prepared with the proper first aid and emergency gear will give you and your family a much better chance of getting through the difficult times.

First Aid Kit Products – Offering quality first aid kits, first aid supplies and disaster preparedness for your families safety.

Have we learned from past disasters?

Are we all now more prepared than ever before to protect ourselves and our families from future disasters, or are we still unconvinced that it can actually happen to us.

Presently a growing wildfire in the mountains north of Los Angeles has spread over miles of bone-dry forest, forcing evacuations of homes. Authorities issued a mandatory evacuation notice for 150 homes located within a half-square-mile area and on the slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Another wildfire on the Palos Verdes Peninsula on the south Los Angeles County coast has now been contained, but not before 1,500 people were forced to flee at the height of the fire.
A state of emergency was declared in the county as the other blazes forced evacuations and knocked out power in parts of the state.
The evening news tonight states that 10,000 homes in British Columbia, Canada are threatened by a large wildfire that is spreading quickly. The residents have been notified that evacuation may be necessary at any time.

Did everyone that was forced from their homes during last week’s wildfires have sufficient emergency supplies to see them through?  Did the people without power have food and water for their families?
I certainly hope that they did!
Are those in British Columbia that are about to be forced from their homes, prepared with emergency supplies to see themselves through the coming days.
 I certainly hope that they are!

We all know that we need to be prepared, however the fact is that only a very few of us are ready for even the smallest emergency, let alone one of larger significance.
I can assure you that all of those people that survived these disasters will be much more prepared for the next emergency situation they are faced with.

It is human nature to feel that the natural and manmade disasters that we see on the TV could never happen to us.  The truth is that no part of our country, or North America for that matter, is immune to a natural or a man-made disaster.
The point that I am trying to make here is that if we do not attempt to prepare for an emergency situation, no matter how large or small, we are leaving ourselves and our family’s health and safety to chance.  Are you really willing to take that gamble?  I’m not.

First Aid Kit Products.

  Hurricanes are among the most dramatic, damaging and potentially deadly weather events. The force of hurricane winds alone can cause tremendous devastation, toppling trees and power lines, closing roads; they cause flooding and severe damage to buildings.

  On August 28th, 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit the southern coast of the United States with devastating effect. The storm surge breached the city’s levees at multiple points, leaving 80 percent of the city submerged, tens of thousands of victims clinging to rooftops, and hundreds of thousands scattered to shelters around the country.
  Now, three years later, how many of us have prepared ourselves to survive the next natural disaster?
  Will you be able to survive those first critical 3 days of a disaster with no electricity, water or medical help?
   WILL YOU?

  The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) says “To survive a natural or man-made disaster we must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when the disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector in the case of a fire, preparing for the unexpected makes sense.”

  When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it’s best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. To ensure these basics you need to have the following available for you and your family.

·         Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

·         Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

·         A comprehensive First aid kit

·         Flashlight and extra batteries

·         Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio and extra batteries for both

·         Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

·         Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

·         Whistle to signal for help

·         Wrench to turn off utilities

·         Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

  The same preparedness is true for any natural or manmade disaster or emergency situation that catches you off-guard. The gear necessary to provide you and your family with the basics for survival are the same no matter where you live.

  One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible after effects.
  Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently, and without warning at any time of the day or night. If an earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths and injuries and extensive property damage.
  Although there are no guarantees of safety during an earthquake, identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can save lives and significantly reduce injuries and property damage.
  A magnitude 5.4 earthquake rocked southern California on July 29, 2008. This earthquake is a reminder to make the important changes we need to survive the inevitable.

  Winter storms can bring heavy snowfall and extreme cold that can immobilize an entire region. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with a major snowstorm or extreme cold. Winter storms can result in flooding, storm surge, closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia.

  Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighbourhood or community, or if very large like Katrina, affecting entire river basins and multiple states. 

  The most disturbing news that the latest surveys have given us is that fewer than 50% of households located in earthquake zones have disaster supply kits at hand. Even after the graphic videos provided by the news media, half of our population makes no effort to prepare!
  Remember, you will likely be on your own in the hours and days following an earthquake, flood, and severe storm or any major emergency.  I urge you to be prepared for the unexpected with emergency drinking water, food, first aid supplies, and medications regardless of where you live.

I hope that this article has given you some incentive to bring your family to a better prepared condition.

Sincerely:
Allan Wright
First Aid Kit Products

The steps are:

1. Write a disaster plan
2. Write an evacuation plan
3. Learn about safety plans at work and school
4. Prepare for fires
5. Assemble disaster supplies
6. Learn lifesaving skills.  

As each one of these steps is important; we will look at them individually.
 

Writing a disaster plan:             

  There are a few things that I consider important under this first step. 

  When a disaster strikes, all of your family members may not be together in one place.

  Your family should select two places to meet in an emergency situation. This is an easy task. Get the family together and let everyone make a suggestion.
 

• In case of a household emergency, such as a fire, pick a spot in the neighborhood to meet and make sure that everyone knows exactly where that spot is.     

• In a more widespread emergency, when all of your family may not be able to get home, or you must evacuate your neighborhood, pick a second place outside of your immediate neighborhood and make sure that all family members knows the address and phone number.     

  An out of town relative or friend may be your “family contact” place. If family members become separated, they should check with this contact as soon as possible. Everyone must know the address, phone numbers and E-mail of the family contact.
 

And last, but not least, plan how to take care of your pet.

  Our pets are an important part of the family, be sure that you plan now for their safety.   You must establish a place to take your pets. Emergency shelters cannot accept pets because of health regulations, so it may be very difficult to find shelter for your pets in a disaster situation.  Plan ahead for that eventuality now. 

Statistics have always shown an increase in the number of accidents in the home when we are exposed to a change in routine, unusual distractions and increased stress levels. These factors all come together during Christmas – New Years.

The risk from fire also increases as more time is spent at home, often with guests. Combined with alcohol, this can make homes more vulnerable to accidental fires.

However by keeping a few simple safety steps in mind, we can all enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.

It is absolutely vital to use a proper stepladder when putting up or taking down decorations in positions that you cannot normally reach. The few minutes required to get a proper stepladder can save a very painful fall.

Care must be taken not to overload wall sockets with Christmas lights and other electrical decorations. Avoid the use of long extension cords.

Remember to keep the tree away from floor heaters, fireplaces, or other heat sources, even if it is artificial.

Use only UL-listed lights, no more than 3 strands linked together and consider replacing your old lights with the new miniature lights with cool-burning bulbs. Lower your electric bill and your risk of fire with these new lights!

 
Remember, an extension cord and wires should never be warm to the touch! If they are, unplug some of the decorations immediately.

Avoid tree decorations that are made from thin glass that can break easily, as these pieces are very sharp and can injure a youngster crawling around the tree.

Always turn off the Christmas lights and decorations at bedtime, or if you leave your home for an extended period.

Never, never, never use candles to decorate the tree; even an artificial tree.

Do not leave any burning candle unattended.

Discarded wrapping paper and boxes represents a significant fire hazard in your home.  Tidy up these items ASAP and put them in a safer location, well away from any heat source.

Never burn wrapping paper in your fireplace; it can result in a very large fire very quickly, throwing off dangerous sparks and embers and may even result in a chimney fire.

Keep toys, games, decorations with small parts and button batteries out of reach of young children, babies and toddlers can choke on these small items. Also remember to clear away the last dregs of drinks left in glasses before you go to bed, as even very small amounts of alcohol can poison young children.

The holiday season is the time of greatest activity in the kitchen and a little extra effort and organization in keeping worktops and stovetops tidy can pay dividends.  Make sure that all hot, heavy or sharp objects are well back from the edges, with pot handles turned in so as to reduce the risks of any accidents. This is especially important with excited youngsters around.

Apply the basic food safety measures when handling any meal. With the stress of the moment, it is easy to overlook a vital food safety step.

• Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling raw food products.
• Ensure clean utensils and cooking surfaces are used when preparing foods.
• Don’t cross-contaminate by allowing foods and their juices to come into contact with one another during preparation.
• Store raw meat, poultry, and seafood on a plate or tray, so raw juices don’t drip onto other foods in your refrigerator.
• Use one cutting board for raw meat products, another one for salads and other ready-to-eat foods, or wash cutting boards in between each use with soap and a few ounces of bleach.
• Never place cooked food on a plate that previously held raw meat, poultry, or seafood unless the plate has been thoroughly washed.
• Eat the meal as soon as it is prepared.
• Never keep salads that contain meats, cheese or fish out of the fridge for more than two hours.
• Refrigerate leftovers As Soon As Possible; cut the meat off the bones or into slices and put it in shallow containers in the refrigerator. Food that takes too long to cool can still grow harmful bacteria in your refrigerator.
• Reheat all leftovers to 165°F (use your thermometer). Gravy should be brought to a rolling boil.  

Finally, as you do in every season of the year, have working smoke alarms on every level of your home.  Test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Also consider installing Carbon Monoxide detectors in you home. There have been far too many cases of Carbon Monoxide deaths reported so far this year.

And last, but not least, please take the time to check on elderly relatives, friends and neighbors this time of the year – make sure they are safe and secure.

Have a Great Holiday.

Sincerely:

Allan Wright

First Aid Kit Products

 A devastating flood can occur at any time of the year and are most often caused by heavy rainfall, rapid melting of a thick snow pack, ice jams, or more rarely, the failure of a natural or man-made dam.

One of the major issues that will affect everyone living in an area that has been flooded is that of food and water safety.

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Food safety after a flood

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If in doubt – Throw it out!

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You must inspect food that has come anywhere near flood water very, very carefully. Flood waters may carry contaminated mud, chemical waste, petroleum products and even raw sewage, which can make storm-damaged foods unsafe to eat.

Even the slightest contact with floodwater can lead to contamination. There is a simple, basic rule: all foods that have touched floodwater should be dispose of. This includes all fresh produce, meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Food in glass jars, including all unopened jars. Discard all foods in bags and all opened containers and packages.

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The only exception to this rule would be food in sealed in undamaged metal cans. These are safe for use, as long as you carefully clean and disinfect the cans before opening.

This means you must remove the labels and thoroughly wash them with a scrub brush in a strong detergent solution containing chlorine bleach and then rinse well in clear water. The bleach solution should be one half-cup of bleach to one gallon of water. You may wish to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands during this process.

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Being Prepared

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This brings up the issue of being prepared for a disaster. Nothing will help you and your family through any emergency situation as will being prepared for it.

It may be up to three days before Emergency Services are up and running in your area. Having an emergency preparedness kit, stored high and dry, can literally be a lifesaver.

A supply of Food, drinking water and some additional gear such as Light sticks, Dynamo FM Radio, Flashlight, Hygiene Kit, Waterproof Matches, Emergency Candles, Sanitation Kit and First Aid supplies will be priceless to you and your family.

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Cookware and Cooking Utensils

If your cookware and kitchen utensils have come into contact with floodwater, they will require special treatment.

Take apart any item that can be cleaned in pieces. If possible, remove handles from pans.

Wash all china, glass dishes, cups and pots and pans that have been in contact with floodwaters. Use hot soapy water and a brush to remove dirt. Rinse and then place them in a sanitizing bleach solution for at least 10 minutes and then rinse well in clean water. The bleach solution should be one half-cup of bleach to one gallon of water.

Disinfect silverware, metal utensils, and pots and pans by boiling in clean water for 10 minutes.

Chlorine bleach should not be used in this case because it reacts with many metals and causes them to darken. Throw away dishes with cracks as well as soft, porous plastic or wood items saturated by floodwater, since they cannot be sanitized. These include baby bottles, nipples and pacifiers. They cannot be safely disinfected.

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Potable Water

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Water; water everywhere and not a drop to drink!

After a flood, you should assume that all water sources are contaminated until they have been proven safe.

Boil all rain and tap water and water from containers you’re not completely sure about. Use only bottled, boiled, or treated water for drinking, cooking or preparing food, washing dishes, cleaning, brushing your teeth, washing your hands, making ice, and bathing until your water supply is tested and found safe.

There are also a few excellent Water Filtration Bottles and Emergency Water Filters on the market that are very effective at producing clean drinking water from almost any water source. These are the same systems that were used by the US military during the Katrina disaster.

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If you use a private well for your water supply, be sure to have the water tested before you resume use. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to wash your hands if you have a limited supply of clean water.

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Floodwater

Avoid contact with floodwater if at all possible, but if you find yourself wading into the floodwater during or after the disaster, remember that you will be in contact with many harmful contaminants that can make you sick. Always wash after contact with floodwater.

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I sincerely hope that you have found this article useful in planning your family’s preparedness.

Allan Wright

First Aid Kit Products

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  By being prepared ourselves allows emergency workers focus on people in urgent need. To support their efforts, the rest of us need to be prepared to look after ourselves.

  The San Francisco area is exposed to a wide variety of hazards, both natural and man-made.   The path of destruction that Hurricane Katrina left in its wake across the southern U.S. in August 2005 and the widespread flooding of 2007 – 2008 have provided a horrific reminder of the importance of being prepared for disasters. Unfortunately no part of our country is immune to natural or man-made disasters.

  Earthquakes, power outages, floods, fires, severe storms and acts of terrorism are just some of the potential emergencies. Many of these emergencies have been deadly in the past. Being prepared can save lives and can help to reduce the impact of a disaster on you and your family.

Why prepare your family?

  Imagine for a moment that you have no electricity, no gas, no water and no telephone service. Imagine that all the businesses are closed and you are without any kind of emergency services. What will you do until help arrives?

  While governments at all levels are working hard to keep its citizens safe, individuals also have an important role to play in emergency preparedness. By being prepared to take care of yourself, you allow community resources to be used more effectively during an emergency and you help keep your own family safe too. Very simply put, emergency preparedness must begin at home.

Start to plan today!

  Prepare your emergency kit and prepare your family – so in the case of a major emergency like a flood or blackout – you are ready to take care of yourself and your loved ones for at least 72 hours. You should be prepared to live without running water, electricity, gas, telephones and assistance from safety services for at least three days following a disaster.

Your family Emergency Kit is comprised of two separate parts; a First Aid Kit and a Go Bag.

  Your own 72-Hour Emergency Kit should be tailored to meet the basic survival needs of your family. Store your emergency supplies in an easily accessible if evacuation is required. Items may be stored in a trashcan, suitcase, duffle bag, backpack, footlocker or individual pack. 

Your First Aid Kit 

  In any emergency situation, you or a family member may be cut, burned or suffer other injuries. Keep basic first aid supplies handy so you are prepared to assist when someone is hurt.

Some items that should be in your First Aid Kit: 

• Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes
• Butterfly Closure Bandages
• Sterile dressings to stop bleeding
• Elastic Wrap
• Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disinfect
• Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection
• Burn ointment
• Sting Relief Pads (for insect bites)
• Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant
• Scissors
• Two pairs of disposable gloves
• First Aid Instruction Guide 
• Medicines such as Aspirin or other pain reliever, laxative, anti-diarrhea medication
• The prescription medications you take every day such as insulin or heart medication.
• All prescribed medical supplies such as glucose or blood pressure monitors

Go Bag:

  A major component of your disaster kit is your Go-bag. Every household should pack a Go Bag — a collection of items you may need in the event of an evacuation order.

Your Go Bag may be assembled or purchased as a ready-made kit for convenience. Your Go Bag should be packed in a sturdy backpack or suitcase on wheels.

The Go Bag should be easily accessible if you have to leave your home in a hurry. Make sure it is ready to go at all times of the year as an emergency evacuation can occur at any time.

  Prepare one Go-bag for each family member and make sure each is tagged with the name of the person it was packed for. You may not be at home when an emergency strikes so keep some additional supplies in your car and at work.

  Remember that if you have to leave your house you may be living and sleeping somewhere else for a while. It is therefore a good idea to add some activity items to the kids Go Bag.

  Some suggestions may be a couple of favorite books

• Crayons, pencils and plenty of paper
• A puzzle
• A favorite toy such as a doll or action figure
• One or two board games
• A deck of cards
• A Favorite stuffed animal or puppet
• Favorite blanket or pillow

Other items to add to your Go Bag are: 

• Water and non-perishable food such as energy or granola bars
• Manual can opener
• Plates, utensils and other cooking supplies
• Flashlight and extra batteries or Hand-charged Flashlight
• Pocketknife or Multifunctional Tool
• Battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries
• Whistle
• Waterproof Matches
• A Dust mask
• Duct Tape, permanent marker, and paper
• Cable Ties
• Light Stick
• Rope or twine
• Emergency cash in small denominations and quarters for phone calls
• Heavy work gloves
• Disposable lighters
• Phillips Screw Driver
• Standard Screw Driver
• Folding Shovel w/Sheath
• Trash Bags
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Personal Hygiene kit
• Shave Kit
• Maps
• Sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, gloves and a warm hat
• Emergency Survival Sleeping Bag
• Rain Ponchos
• Photos of family members and pets for re-identification purposes
• List of emergency contact phone numbers
• List of allergies to any drug or food
• Copy of health insurance and identification cards
• Extra prescription eyeglasses, hearing aid or other vital personal items
• Prescription medications
• Extra keys to your house and vehicle
• Disposable camera
• Any special-needs items for children, seniors or people with disabilities.

Don’t forget to make-up a Go-bag for your pets.

   I sincerely hope that this article will provide the incentive for you to get prepared for an emergency now.  Don’t put if off for another day.  The safety and well being of your family is at stake.

Allan Wright

First Aid Kit Products

www.FirstAidKitProducts.com

There are many natural hazards that we must all deal with at one time or another, such as severe weather, including thunderstorms, snowstorms, floods and tornados.

We all watch the news programs and see the devastation that these storms can bring. However people still place themselves in jeopardy by not being properly prepared for them. Even when a major winter storm has been announced by the news media, people still venture out, unprepared for the worst.

Winter driving rules:

Winter driving does call for a little more clear thinking and preparation than is required on a beautiful summer day.

Lets go over a few of the things that we need to keep in mind.

The safest place to be is in your home, but if you must go out into a storm, or will be driving into an advancing storm front, be sure to tell someone your destination, timetable and your planed route.

Make sure your gas tank is full; you may be in your car for a longer period that you think.  Make sure that you have an Emergency Roadside kit or Disaster Pack in your vehicle.

If you find yourself stuck and unable to move due to sliding off the road or becoming stuck in deep snow, don’t panic. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. Wait for help to arrive. It is easier for rescuers to see a vehicle than a person that has wandered off in the wrong direction.

If you attempt to free your vehicle from the snow, be careful. Dress warmly, shovel slowly and do not overexert yourself. Do not attempt to shovel or push your vehicle if you have a medical condition. Body heat is retained when clothing is kept dry. Wet clothing, due to the weather or perspiration, can lead to a dangerous loss of body heat.

Try to contact the authorities by phone and give them your location.

If you are unable to contact help, get your emergency auto pack out of the trunk and prepare to wait for assistance.

Run your engine for 10 to 15 minutes every hour for heat and turn on a directional indicator or emergency flashers. The flashing light will make your vehicle more visible, even in a storm. 
Be careful of exhaust fumes. For fresh air, slightly open a window away from the wind. Exit your vehicle occasionally to make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of drifting snow before running the engine.
Bundle up in a blanket. If there is more than one person in the car, share – two people sharing blankets will be warmer than either person alone in a blanket.
Wear a hat and scarf – the head and neck are major sources of heat loss from the body. Don’t stay in one position too long. Do some exercises to help your circulation – move arms and legs, clap your hands, etc.  

Conclusion:

With lots of gasoline and your emergency supplies, you should be fine until help arrives.

Your emergency kit should contain a flashlight, a blanket or emergency sleeping bag, drinking water and a non-perishable high calorie food bar. Food provides the body with energy produce its own heat.

A few candles will supply some heat and light and a roll of duct tape will help stop any drafts from around windows or doors. A shovel and a can of tire inflator would be excellent additions to your emergency kit.

   I sincerely hope that this article will provide the incentive for you to get prepared for an emergency now.  Don’t put if off for another day.  The safety and well being of your family is at stake.

Allan Wright

First Aid Kit Products

www.FirstAidKitProducts.com