When we think about time management we usually focus on day-to-day activities; many of those activities are performed without much thought. Then there are those activities that are simply time-wasters. Over the past months I have written about capturing time and managing those moments that quickly pass us by. Check out the sidebar to read each month’s blog.
Time management requires some forethought–if this happens, what am I to do? This is the perfect month to focus on how to BE PREPARED so you are not caught in stormy consequences. Being prepared means so much more than just stocking up on bread and milk (and toilet paper!). It takes a proactive mindset to think ahead and plan for contingencies rather than simply reacting to a situation. If something happens, how will I handle the situation quickly and safely?
Here comes the storm
Here in New England we were forewarned that snow was coming, and it came right on schedule, just as it was forecast. It wasn’t so much that would potentially create a disastrous situation unless you were among the unfortunate ones that lost power again due to gusty winds. However, it was enough to trigger some thought about preparedness. We certainly know it will get worse as the winter sets in, so why not get some items together that will make life just a wee bit easier to cope.
In the south, residents are warned of tropical storms and hurricanes coming in off the water. In the west, people are fully alert to the perils of forest fires and droughts. Then, there is the wind that blows unimpeded across the prairies and floods along the rivers. No matter where you live, you know that eventually there will be some type of storm that requires emergency preparations. How well you are prepared can minimize the consequences and may even save your life.
Get Started
Start today thinking about what stormy weather may come your way and create your own personalized emergency preparedness plan. When moments matter, a well thought out plan saves precious time.
Here are a few questions to think about:
- What types of storms head your way and what consequences do they bring?
- Where are the local shelters? If you have a pet, you may need to find a specific shelter that accommodates animals.
- What emergency supplies do you need in order to be safe and secure? Prepare that emergency kit, now. There are lots of websites that list potential requirements to stash in a backpack for a quick get away.
- Are your medications and medical supplies available for quick retrieval, such as in a portable box that you can grab at a moments notice?
- What do you need to do to insure your vehicle is ready and equipped? Store plenty of clothing and blankets in the truck to prevent hypothermia, frostbite, etc. Consider obtaining a thermal ‘space’ blanket to pack in the car and in the emergency kit.
- What do you need to meet the special needs of your family?
- Who do you need to contact and do you have that information as part of your emergency supply kit?
- Have you kept a portable phone/tablet charger ready at all times? Do you know where local emergency charging stations are located?
- What about flashlights and fresh batteries? Don’t rely on your phone as a flashlight as that will deplete the battery quickly.
- What important financial information do you need to have in the supply kit? Do you have enough emergency cash on hand in case the ATM machines are not working?
- Have you set up your smartphone to receive emergency alerts?
Check out these website to learn more about emergency and disaster preparedness.
https://www.usa.gov/prepare-for-disasters
https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
https://www.weather.gov/enterprise/
One Final Thought
Call 2-1-1 if you need help in the aftermath of an emergency. This free, confidential service provides 24/7 information and support in North America. The specialists on the other end of the line use a network of information from government, private and nonprofit organizations to get people the help they need.
