Survival in Your Pocket:The Amazing Mylar Blanket

This past week I had occasion to speak with two different groups about preparing for an emergency. With winter storms now a holiday reality, I encouraged everyone to stock up on mylar survival blankets. Very few people are really familiar with all the uses for these compact, lightweight gems and as I listen to report after report of hikers lost on mountain trails and motorists stranded on closed highways with...

Insurance: Part of Being Prepared

Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed in the news devastating destruction by tornadoes and wildfires. Florida, Georgia and California have all suffered from devastating fires even before the official start of fire season. The summer of 2007 is considered by experts to potentially become the worst fire season in history. Hurricane season is beginning, too, and forecasters say conditions are ripe for up to five...

Dealing with a Flood

Noah was warned of an impending flood, and was told to build an ark. Although his neighbors mocked him, Noah was prepared and his family survived. Today, many of us live where floods are a threat, and short of building a ship in our backyard, there are ways we can prepare for the worst. The measure of our wisdom may depend completely on whether, like Noah, we are willing to do something about being...

Preparing For a Heat Wave

The summer of 2006 brought record breaking heat to many parts of the country. Looking ahead we can work now to prepare our families for heat related emergencies. If you experience a heat wave in your area it is especially important to be aware of the elderly, young children and those taking diuretics. If a member of your family is taking any medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist to determine if they...