Gaye Levy
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When it comes to being prepared, is seems that there are about a thousand things to take into consideration. Well, maybe not a thousand but at least a hundred or two. At times, it feels like we are jugglers, with so many balls in the air that with one mis-step, they will all come tumbling down.
Luckily, there are lots or resources available with checklists and guidelines to get us through the quagmire of of things to do, things to get, and things to learn. Even then, when it comes right down to it, we all just have to do it.
I have found that the process of asking and answering questions goes further to help me prepare than all of the the other resources combined. By asking a question of myself, I can work through various scenarios and come up with a reasonable answer and a solution that is actionable. Because this question and answer process is so valuable, each summer I post a reminder to take the Annual Preparedness Test.
Today I would like to take that test one step further with a supplemental pop quiz that includes additional question to get you thinking. While I would like to take credit for these questions, many have come from awesome preppers such as yourselves, in the various comments and emails that have been recorded these past few months.
And let’s face it. What better source of information is there than fellow Backdoor Survival readers who walk and walk, the same as you.
The Preparedness Pop Quiz
1. In the event of a sudden evacuation, do you have up-to-date maps of your local area and of a primary and secondary evacuation route?
2. Have you considered what you would do if bridges were impassible or there were mudslides or other road blocks preventing your getaway?
3. Is your vehicle reliable and in sufficient mechanical condition to get you out dodge and out of danger?
4. Can you manually open the garage door if there is no power?
5. Have you identified an alternative location that you can reasonably reach in the event your own home is uninhabitable or inaccessible?
6. Do you have sufficient fuel in your vehicle to make it to your primary or secondary destination?
7. Are the heavy objects in your home (such as book cases and the hot water heater) secured in such a way that they will not topple over in an earthquake?
8. Do all members of your family have GRMS or FRS radios for short distance communications if cell towers are overloaded or phone service is completely gone? Do they know how to use them?
9. Do you have a small solar battery charger to re-charge your cell phones, reading device, tablet or laptop?
10. Have you stored copies of important documents on a flash drive? Examples include driver’s license, social security card, Medicare or health insurance card, passport, mortgage-note/deed to property, car title and registration, bank investment account numbers, insurance policy numbers, and family photos.
11. Does each family member have a pack or case that they can handle on their own during an evacuation? Do those packs include provisions for children, pets, the elderly and those with mobility or other challenges?
12. Do you have emergency food, water, first aid, cash, and other items stored in multiple locations just in case your primary location is looted or destroyed?
13. Can you carry your primary survival pack on your back for two to four hours without strain? When is the last time you tried?
14. What steps have you taken to mentally prepared for a disaster or collapse?
The Final Word
These are just a sampling of the questions you should be asking yourself in an effort to round out and broaden your preparedness efforts. Some of them are easier than others and most assuredly, the answers will set the foundation for further assessment of your state of preparedness.
The good news is that family preparedness can be embraced as a lifestyle and can meld into the mesh of daily life as a matter of course.
If you have not done so already, please take the Annual Preparedness Test. Or, if you prefer, print out a copy so that you can make notes then pass the test along to someone who perhaps is interested in preparedness but does not know where to start.
When you are done, come back and leave a comment with a question that is not on one of the lists – but should be. I will include it in the next quiz.
Enjoy your next adventure through common sense and thoughtful preparation!
Gaye
Note: To download a printable copy of the preparedness test, click here. In addition, you can find the original version of this great Preparedness Test buried in an LDS Preparedness Manual which is a 100% free download.
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Bargain Bin: For your discernment, here are of some items mentioned today as well as some personal and BDS reader favorites.
Silicon Power 8GB Flash Drive, Gray Aluminum: I just purchased this flash drive for my key ring because the one I purchased a couple of years ago broke. The flash drive itself works but the key ring thing made of plastic broke off. This flash drive has a ring shaped metallic exterior which should stand up over time.
Midland 36-Mile 50-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radios: These are the handheld radios that I own. There are lots of good uses for the these radios. Handy while hiking, traveling, or simply keeping in touch with your partner while out shopping. They are waterproof – a quality that I feel is important. Plus, in addition to using the included rechargeable batteries, they can use regular AAs in a pinch. Note: the true range for this type of radio is actually 4 to 6 miles, regardless of brand. Don’t be fooled.
Solar 11-in-1 Battery Charger: This is a universal charger that does what it is supposed to do. It uses sunlight to generate a current that charges pairs of batteries in sizes AAA, AA, C, or D and works great with my favorite eneloop batteries.
Sanyo Eneloop 1500 Super Power Pack: This kit has it all, including 12 AA, 4 AAA, 2 C and D Spacers, a 4 position charger and storage case. This is the kit that I own. For just the batteries, check out Sanyo eneloop 8 Pack AA Rechargeable Batteries.
Chemical Light Sticks: Pick you size (length) and pick your color. Just be aware that if color does not matter, some colors are cheaper than others. Be sure to read Lighting Your Way With Chemical Lighting.
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4 Responses to “14 Questions to Ask Yourself in a Preparedness Pop Quiz”
Good points, but the title of this should be for a bugout situation. Prepping isn’t always centered around bugging out.
This was a humbling experience. I thought I was “clicking” along pretty good, but nowhere near ready if the whole thing belly-ups tomorrow, or tonight. I’d say back to square one, but now I am not sure I ever left…. (sad laugh, slinking away to lear at pitiful BOB)
thanx for posting these quizzes now and then; good reminders. have a great vacation.
a great list of things to think about. i remember back in 2005 with hurricane rita and over a million people trying to evacuate houston and the surrounding areas. definitely a good idea to have a plan and a back up plan that can be executed at a moments notice otherwise you could really find yourself in a bind. during hurricane rita there were 600,000 people trying to get through liberty county which only has 70,000 residents. many roads were a nightmare and there were numerous medical emergencies and bouts of road rage. as always, be prepared for anything.