Category: Skill Development

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CPR AED and First Aid training in a business setting.

CPR AED First Aid

Here are the top 10 reasons why CPR, AED, and First Aid training is vital for businesses

Employee Safety

Businesses are responsible for the safety and well-being of their employees. Training staff in CPR, AED, and First Aid ensures that immediate assistance is available during medical emergencies, reducing the risk of severe outcomes from accidents or health issues at work.

Many industries and countries have regulations that require businesses to provide CPR, AED, and First Aid training, especially in high-risk environments. Compliance helps avoid legal penalties and ensures businesses meet their occupational health and safety obligations.

Reduction in Workplace Incidents

Trained employees can quickly and effectively respond to emergencies, potentially reducing the severity of injuries and medical conditions. This quick response can lower the number of days lost to injury and illness, maintaining productivity and reducing workers’ compensation claims.

Increased Confidence and Morale

Employees trained in CPR, AED, and First Aid feel more confident and secure knowing they can handle emergencies. This training fosters a sense of empowerment and care among the workforce, leading to higher morale and a supportive work environment.

Preparedness for Cardiac Emergencies

Cardiac arrests can occur unexpectedly, even in seemingly healthy individuals. Having employees trained in CPR and AED usage ensures that immediate and effective intervention is available, which is crucial since the survival rate significantly decreases with each minute of delay.

Improved Team Dynamics

First Aid, CPR, and AED training often involve teamwork and coordination. This training can strengthen team dynamics and communication skills, which are beneficial during emergencies and everyday business operations.

Enhanced Customer Safety

In businesses that interact with the public, having staff trained in emergency response ensures the safety of customers and clients. This readiness can enhance the company’s reputation as a safe and responsible organization, which is particularly important in the hospitality, retail, and public services sectors.

Reduced Liability

Proper training can protect businesses from potential lawsuits or liability claims that may arise from inadequate response to emergencies. Demonstrating that staff are trained and prepared to handle emergencies can mitigate legal risks and provide a strong defense if incidents occur.

Faster Recovery from Incidents

Prompt and effective response to injuries or health issues can lead to quicker recovery times for affected individuals. This quick action can minimize downtime and disruption, helping businesses maintain continuity and reduce the impact on operations.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Providing CPR, AED, and First Aid training is part of a broader commitment to corporate social responsibility. It shows that a company values the health and safety of its employees, customers, and the community, enhancing its reputation and building trust with stakeholders.

    Schedule your training today!

    Real-Life Scenarios Illustrating the Importance of CPR, AED, and First Aid Training

    1. Workplace Cardiac Arrest: An office worker collapses from a sudden cardiac arrest. A colleague trained in CPR and AED uses the skills to restore the person’s heartbeat before the ambulance arrives, significantly increasing the chance of survival.
    2. Choking Incident in a Restaurant: A customer starts choking at a busy restaurant. The quick intervention of a staff member trained in the Heimlich maneuver prevents a potentially fatal situation.
    3. Construction Site Injury: A construction worker suffers a severe cut from machinery. A trained colleague applies proper first aid techniques to stop the bleeding and stabilize the injured worker, preventing further complications until professional help arrives.
    4. Office Seizure: During a meeting, an employee has a seizure. Immediate first aid response by trained staff ensures the safety of the individual, preventing injury from the seizure and providing comfort until medical professionals take over.
    5. Retail Store Fall: A customer slips and falls in a retail store, suffering a head injury. Quick response from trained employees in providing first aid and managing the situation ensures the customer receives the necessary care, reducing the risk of serious injury.

    By incorporating CPR, AED, and First Aid training into their safety protocols, businesses not only fulfill legal and ethical responsibilities but also create a safer, more resilient, and more productive work environment.

    Schedule your training today!

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    Prepare for summer weather

    Prepare for summer

    Preparing for summer weather involves practical steps and thoughtful planning to ensure you stay safe and comfortable.

    Here’s a comprehensive guide:

    Stay Hydrated:

    Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially in hot weather. Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go, and aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day.

    Sun Protection:

    Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) every day, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

    Stay Cool:

    Beat the heat by seeking out air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day, especially if you don’t have air conditioning at home. Use fans, cool showers, or damp cloths to help lower your body temperature. Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours, typically between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

    Summer Wardrobe:

    Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials that allow sweat to evaporate and keep you cool. Opt for loose-fitting clothing in light colors to reflect sunlight rather than absorb it.

    Stay Informed:

    Stay updated on weather forecasts and heat advisories for your area. Be aware of warning signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke, including heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and headache. If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

    Safely Stay Active:

    If you enjoy outdoor activities, plan them for cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Take frequent breaks, stay in the shade when possible, and listen to your body’s cues. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for your activities, and don’t forget to keep hydrated.

    Outdoor Safety:

    Be mindful of hazards like ticks, mosquitoes, and poison ivy. Use insect repellent to protect against bug bites, wear long sleeves and pants when hiking in wooded areas, and perform tick checks after spending time outdoors. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential wildlife encounters if camping or hiking.

    Stay Connected:

    Check on friends, family, and neighbors, especially those who may be more vulnerable to heat, such as the elderly, young children, or individuals with chronic illnesses. Offer assistance if needed, and encourage them to stay cool and hydrated.

    Preparing for summer weather is made simple by following these tips and being proactive in your approach to summer weather, you can stay safe, and healthy, and enjoy all the season has to offer.

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    CPR AED and First Aid training

    CPR, AED, and First Aid training
    CPR, AED, and First Aid training

    CPR , AED, and First Aid training are paramount for several reasons:

    Life-Saving Skills

    CPR , AED, and First Aid training equips individuals with the ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies. In situations like cardiac arrest, choking, or severe injuries, prompt and proper intervention can mean the difference between life and death. Knowing CPR, how to operate an AED, and basic first aid techniques can significantly increase the chances of survival until professional medical help arrives.

    Immediate Response

    Emergencies can occur anywhere, anytime. Having people trained in CPR, AED, and First Aid within communities, workplaces, and homes ensures that there are individuals ready to respond immediately in case of an emergency. This immediate response can stabilize the patient and improve outcomes.

    Prevention of Further Injury or Damage

    Properly administered first aid can prevent a minor injury from escalating into a major one. For instance, applying the correct bandaging techniques to stop bleeding or stabilize a broken bone can prevent further damage or complications.

    Empowerment and Confidence

    CPR, AED, and First Aid training empower individuals by giving them the knowledge and skills to take control of emergency situations. This confidence can make a significant difference in their ability to respond effectively under pressure.

    Public Health Impact

    A well-trained populace contributes to a safer community. When more people are trained effectively, the overall resilience of a community increases, and the potential to save lives in emergencies rises.

    In many professions, such as healthcare, childcare, lifeguarding, and fitness training, CPR, AED, and First Aid certification may be required by law or as part of professional standards. Having these certifications not only ensures compliance but also enhances professional credibility.

    Family Safety

    This training is invaluable for families. Knowing how to respond in medical emergencies at home can make a critical difference in the outcome for loved ones.

    Disaster Preparedness

    In times of natural disasters or other emergencies when medical services may be overwhelmed or delayed, individuals with good training become even more essential. They can provide crucial assistance to those in need until formal medical help becomes available.

    Overall, This training is an indispensable skills that can save lives, prevent further injuries, and contribute to safer and more resilient communities.

    Setup your Class Today!

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    A Guide to Disaster Preparedness during Civil Unrest

    disaster preparedness

    Introduction:

    In an ever-changing world, civil unrest can emerge unexpectedly, challenging the stability of communities and putting citizens at risk. While we hope for peace, it is essential to be prepared for the unexpected, as hope is not a strategy. This article aims to provide a starting point for disaster preparedness during civil unrest, equipping you with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate challenging times.

    Stay Informed:

    Knowledge is a powerful tool in times of civil unrest. Stay informed about local and global events through reliable news sources. Social media can be a valuable tool for real-time updates, and disaster preparedness, but verify information before sharing, as misinformation can spread quickly during periods of unrest.

    Develop a Communication Plan:

    Establish a communication plan with family, friends, and neighbors. Identify primary and alternative communication methods, such as text messages, social media, or walkie-talkies. Having a designated meeting point or a centralized contact person can help in case regular communication channels are disrupted.

    Create a Disaster Preparedness Emergency Kit:

    Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential supplies for at least 72 hours.

    • Non-perishable food items,
    • Water (one gallon per person per day – minimum),
    • First aid supplies,
    • Prescription medications,
    • Flashlights and Batteries,
    • Important documents (ID, insurance papers, etc.),
    • Cash in small denominations,
    • Basic hygiene items

    Secure Your Home:

    Take measures to secure your home in case of civil unrest. Reinforce doors and windows, and consider investing in a home security system. Create a safe room where you can seek refuge if necessary. Develop evacuation routes and practice them with your family.

    Stay Neutral and Avoid Conflict:

    In times of civil unrest, tensions can run high. It is crucial to remain neutral and avoid engaging in confrontations. If possible, stay indoors and away from crowds. Do not participate in activities that could escalate the situation.

    Know Your Community:

    Build relationships with your neighbors and community members. In times of crisis, a strong support network can be invaluable. Collaborate on neighborhood watch programs or community emergency response teams to enhance overall preparedness.

    Stay Physically and Mentally Prepared:

    Maintain your physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep contribute to overall resilience. Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation or deep breathing exercises to cope with the emotional toll of civil unrest.

    Know Your Rights:

    Familiarize yourself with your legal rights and responsibilities during civil unrest. Understand the local laws and regulations governing peaceful assembly and the role of law enforcement. Document any encounters with authorities for future reference.

    Conclusion:

    Civil unrest can be a challenging and unpredictable situation, but with proper disaster preparedness, individuals can increase their resilience and enhance their ability to navigate these tumultuous times. By staying informed, creating communication plans, securing homes, building community connections, and maintaining overall well-being, individuals can contribute to a safer and more resilient society in the face of civil unrest.

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    Skill Development – Knots you need to know

    Today we will talk about the 7 knots you need to know;

    • Two Half hitches
    • The Figure eight on a bight
    • The Bowline
    • The Taut Line hitch
    • The Clove hitch
    • The Square knot
    • The Double Sheet bend

    Knots are extremely useful and there are a myriad of choices. But, today we are going to examine what I consider to be the 7 most important knots that you need to know. With these knots in your skillset you will be able to deal with most any situation, requiring a knot, that arises. But please don’t consider this an all encompassing list, learn as many knots as you can.

    That being said, let’s get started with some basic terminology;

    • Bight: Any part of a rope between the ends. Bight also is used to refer to a curved section of a rope within a knot being tied.
    • Loop: A bight becomes a loop when the two ropes cross. If the working end is crossed over the standing line, it is an overhand loop. It is an underhand loop if the working end runs under the standing part.
    • Working End: The active end being used to tie the knot.
    • Standing End: The end not being use in the tying of the knot. The rope part that is not being used is called the Standing Part.

    Now for the Knots, I have included two pics for each knot, one loose so you can see how it is formed and one tight to show you how it should look when applied;

    • Two Half hitches, this knot is the simplest knot used to hitch a rope to a post. It consists of a wrap or loop around the post, followed by an overhand knot then a half hitch. It is basically a Larks Head knot tied with the working end on the Standing part, to form a loop that tightens when the standing end is pulled.2016-02-23 14.20.182016-02-23 14.00.39
    • The figure eight on a bight, this knot is commonly used by climbers because of its security and ease of disassembly. Especially useful when you need to make a secure loop somewhere in the middle of a rope and used in some compound knots. You can also tie a figure eight at the end of a rope as a stopper knot.2016-02-23 13.53.192016-02-23 13.58.45
    • The Bowline, this is the knot you always wish you knew. It is very versatile and easy to untie, even after being subjected to heavy loads while wet. It is basically a Sheet bend that forms a loop. Although this knot is very secure when under a load, it can tend to work loose when not. That is why climbers use a figure eight on a bight. Remember this little ditty “The rabbit comes out of the hole goes around the tree and back into the hole” the rabbit is the working end.2016-02-23 14.27.542016-02-23 13.52.11
    • The Taut line hitch is an adjustable loop knot for use on lines under tension. It is useful when the length of a line will need to be periodically adjusted in order to maintain tension. Very useful when securing rain flies or tarps, if they become loose you simply slide the knot to take up the slack.2016-02-23 14.21.272016-02-23 14.07.58
    •  The Clove hitch, this knot was commonly used to hitch your horse to the rail. You have seen it done a hundred times, if you watch westerns. It tightens when pulled from the standing end. It becomes unreliable when used on a square or rectangular post. This is the base knot for all lashings.2016-02-23 15.05.322016-02-23 14.12.07
    • The Square knot is a binding knot used to secure a rope around an object. This knot is an ancient one and is commonly mis-tied resulting in the failure of the knot. The working ends should always be on the same side of the knot. This is the knot you use to tie your shoes. It is useful whenever you need a strong bind that is relatively flat, It is also commonly used to tie two ropes together, but this is a mistake, as it is unreliable in this application, use a double sheet bend instead. Here is the rhyme to follow “Right over left and left over right makes the knot neat and tidy and tight.”2016-02-23 14.19.412016-02-23 13.56.11
    • The Double Sheet bend, this knot is used to join two ropes together, regardless of size or type. Done properly it is quite secure. The working ends should be on the same side of the knot. The larger rope should always be the Bight side (Black line)2016-02-23 14.18.362016-02-23 13.55.20

    So there you have it, with a little practice these knots will become part of your skillset and indispensable in your outdoor adventures or survival situations.

    As always,

    Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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    Happy Holidays

    From all of us at NW Survival

    We wish all of you Peace, Joy, and Prosperity!

    Thank you for supporting us!

    Winter/Holiday Home Hazards

    With the change in weather let us be aware of changes in home and personal safety hazards. Some things to consider:

    -Christmas Trees – In addition to keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, check the water daily, turn tree lights off when away or asleep, & maintain distance from heaters.

    -Warm clothing in GO Kits

    -Blankets, food, water, etc. in cars in case of being stranded in a winter storm

    -Working smoke and CO detectors -Here are some links to help identify other winter and seasonal hazard:

    -Cold Weather Safety: Be Prepared for Winter

    -Holiday Safety: Holiday Safety

    -Pet Safety: Pet Safety

    As Always,

    Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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    August Heat

    It’s been hot here in Portland and there has been an uptick in aggression and erratic behavior in people. It seems like everyone I talk to feels like life is throwing them a lot of unexpected challenges of all kinds. I myself have encountered a lot of erratic and aggressive drivers. I’m bringing this up because it got me thinking about self-regulation in stressful situations, like a natural disaster, a mass shooting, or economic collapse. When we experience stress our body releases the stress hormone cortisol, and the sympathetic nervous system is activated. This can evoke the fight, flight, or freeze response. This can be useful if you can regulate it. That is because you will start losing some of your brain’s function and that won’t do anyone good. I’m going to list below a few techniques I like to use to manage my nervous system and at the end, I will describe a possible real-world emergency and how you can incorporate these techniques. 

    First, breathe. And I’m not talking about those shallow chest breaths most of us do when we aren’t being aware of our breathing. I’m talking about slow and deep belly breaths. You know you are doing it right if you are keeping your shoulders relaxed and you can watch your belly expand and contract with each breath. This breath uses your diaphragm, the muscle between your lungs and your intestines, to pull air into the lower part of your lungs. This fills your lungs more completely and is much more effective at calming your nervous system. I find it helpful to visualize it, so here’s a picture. By focusing on your breath, you are bringing yourself back into your body and lessening the negative effects of a stress response.

    breathe-fully

    Second, take a break. If it is possible, step away for a moment and collect yourself and take a few breaths. If you are stressed, it is very easy to get fixated on the situation at hand and often it can do more harm than good. If you are becoming overwhelmed, do yourself and everyone else a favor and step back, even if it’s for 5 minutes. This action alone can significantly improve your problem-solving abilities.

    Third, tune into your five senses. Tune in to each of your senses, one at a time, and identify 3-5 things that you are experiencing. This can be done at any point. Tune in and start with whatever sense you’d like. For example, say I have PTSD and I am triggered by something in my environment. I know there is no threat but now my body is pumping cortisol into my bloodstream, my thoughts are becoming scattered, and my hands start to shake. I’m able to recognize what is happening and I start with the first thing in the environment I notice. Mmmm, I smell cookies… the wood stove, and pine. I hear the piano, laughter, and crackling wood. I could taste the cookies, the wine, or the roast. I can feel the hardwood floor, the heat from the fire, and the soft blanket. I can see my favorite ornament, presents, and the cat curled up under the tree. This quick exercise quickly reduces your fight, flight, or freeze response and calms your nervous system. If it doesn’t work right away, keep trying, remember to breathe, or change your environment.

    images

    There are many ways that you can calm yourself down. These are just a few of them that are effective with my clients, and community. Next, I am going to walk through a possible scenario.

    Let’s say I hear a gunshot come from my neighbors’ house. My nervous system is now on high alert. Instead of panicking, the first thing I’m going to do is take a few deep breaths as I assess the scene. I can safely observe with my eyes 3 things: their kitchen light is on, the front door is wide open, and their children ran across the street to the neighbors. Next, I don’t hear anything coming from the house, I hear the children crying, and I hear the neighbor say that they are calling 911. Then I remind myself, breathe. Next, I smell gasoline, the lavender bush I’m standing next to, and smoke. Breathe. Taste doesn’t apply to this situation. So next, touch. I can feel the sweat on my brow, my shaking hands, and my 9mm. Breathe. Before I act, I make sure I am grounded and regulated. Breathe. Now that I’m managing and aware of my nervous system I can continue with the next steps, all while continuing to regulate my nervous system and assess the scene. Breathe. In this moment I have been able to regulate without taking a break so I continue. However, after the event when there is no immediate danger and everyone is safe, one of the police officers asks me to debrief. At this moment, I realize I’m having a difficult time forming words because my nervous system is still on high alert. So, before I try to dive in, I take a break. I ask for some water, I step back, and I focus on my breathing. Then, when I am calm and feel that I can communicate more clearly, I approach the officer.

    images (1)

    Using these techniques means the difference between being helpful or harmful. Breathing helps you physically regulate your nervous system, by focusing on what you sense in your environment, you are interrupting your erratic thoughts, and by taking a break you are creating an environment in which you can do those things. We can not control our bodies automatic responses but we can attempt to manage them, allowing us to make safer, and more effective decisions. So, instead of laying on your horn because someone didn’t see your blinker and let you into their lane, take a deep breath, assess the situation, and try again. 😉

    Sam

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    Are you ready for the road?

    We are headed into the time of year when travel reaches its peak level, especially by passenger and/or recreational vehicles. That means it is time to get them in tip-top road ready condition. This includes making certain that we have emergency supplies that are congruent with our travel plans. We don’t want to be the ones in the news that fell prey to an unforeseen incident that left us unprepared and vulnerable. We don’t want to be lost, stuck or disabled without the tools and supplies that will help us prevail in whatever situation we find ourselves. That being said it is untenable to prepare for every situation, but we can prepare for most.

    Frequent traveler

    As an instructor, I travel year round all around the NW. Often times I find that I am the only vehicle on the road. That is actually my favorite time to travel. I have a keen sense that most times the only thing separating me and the oncoming traffic is a painted line. You are at the mercy of every other driver out there when you travel. You can be doing everything right and pay the price for the mistake or indiscretion of someone else at any time. I often see debris on the roadways from storms, improperly secured loads, and accidents. These hazards can and will cause problems for you, the recreational traveler if you are not careful and prepared.

    Unprepared travelers

    All too often we hear of someone who was caught unprepared while traveling. Whether it was weather related, mechanical failure, poor planning, or just bad luck the result is the same. They are forced into survival mode trying to improvise for shelter, food, and water occasionally resulting in death or severe injury. Something I say in all my classes is, “It costs us very little to be prepared and safe, but could cost us a great deal if we are not”, it is relevant to almost all aspects of our lives.

    How do we prepare?

    Skills first

    As an instructor, I will always start by developing your skills. The skills that are relevant to this topic are easily attainable. The key is to learn the skills before you need them.

    • Learn how to check your tire pressure
    • Learn how to change a tire
    • Learn how to check your oil
    • Learn how to check your coolant level
    • Learn how to check your transmission fluid
    • Learn how to check and change fuses in your vehicle(s)
    • Learn how to use a weather radio
    • Learn how to read a paper map (not google maps)
    • Learn how to use a compass
    • Learn how to properly place flares
    • Learn how to use your fire extinguisher
    • Learn how to use jumper cables
    • Learn how to use a water filter
    • Learn how to use a portable stove

    Tools and Supplies

    Now that we have an idea of what skills we need, lets put together the tools and supplies to compliment those skills.

    For your vehicle

    • Flashlight/Headlamp
    • Ice scraper
    • Tire gauge
    • Carjack
    • Spare tire (preferably full size)
    • Tire repair kit with a compressor
    • Shop towels
    • Quart of oil
    • Gallon of coolant
    • Quart of transmission fluid
    • Long funnel
    • Basic toolset (wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, etc…)
    • Solar or crank powered weather radio
    • Maps and compass
    • Flares (preferably electronic to avoid combustion hazard)
    • Fire extinguisher (ABC)
    • Jumper cables
    • Portable Battery Jump Starter
    • Small shovel
    • Tow Rope

    For the people

    • Candles
    • Lighters
    • Matches
    • Duct tape (we like Gorilla tape)
    • Disposable gloves
    • Well-stocked first aid kit (with any prescription meds you may be dependant on, such as an EpiPen, insulin, etc…)
    • Solar blankets
    • Wool blankets
    • Warm socks
    • Raincoat or poncho
    • Good all-weather coat
    • Cash (small bills and coins)
    • Stocking cap
    • Sun hat
    • Umbrella
    • Heavy gloves (work gloves)
    • Sleeping bag for the current season
    • Tent
    • Sleeping pads (one for each person)
    • Paper and pencils
    • Whistle
    • List of important phone numbers (on paper)
    • Can opener
    • Knife
    • Scissors
    • Garbage bags in various sizes
    • Sewing kit
    • Baby wipes
    • Toilet paper
    • Hand soap
    • Comb
    • Hairbrush
    • Toothbrush
    • Change of clothes (season appropriate)
    • Towels in a waterproof bag
    • Water (preferably one gallon per person or more)
    • Water filter (such as a Sawyer mini)
    • Backpack (small, for carrying supplies during excursions i.e. getting water, etc…)
    • Good walking shoes or boots
    • Portable camp stove (we like Jetboils)
    • Freeze Dried food (preferably 3 days per person)
    • 100 feet of Paracord
    • 25 feet of 3/8 inch rope
    • Pocket survival guide
    • A container for all your supplies

    Important things to note

    • In cold weather, your water containers should have space to allow room for expansion when the contents freeze.
    • Always have a backpack for each person. If you are forced by circumstances to leave your vehicle on foot, you will want to be able to carry as much of your gear as possible. Always choose to stay with your vehicle if you can.
    • Your kit should change with the seasons, winter gear won’t do you much good in the heat of summer, but extra water will be invaluable.
    • When taking a longer trip, add extra food and water to your kit.
    • Don’t forget about communications: you can summon help with a cell phone or a two-way radio.
    • Depending on the laws where you live and your personal preferences, weapons and ammunition can be a useful addition to your vehicle kit.

    Urban vs. Remote

    This article is focused on remote travel where you would not be able to depend on services like AAA or other roadside assistance. Although these skills, tools, and supplies will benefit you wherever you travel you may not need to prepare for the extremes that I have. Not everybody needs everything on this list.  Pick the items that are relevant to your situation, your environment, and your disaster scenarios. No list can be comprehensive for everyone, but this has done well by me. As I said before,
    “It costs us very little to be prepared and safe, but could cost us a great deal if we are not”

    As Always,
    Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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    The Myth of rising to the occasion

    Prepare for summer

    It is important that we deliberately choose how we spend our time. After all, it is our most valuable resource. No matter what we do, we can never get it back once it is spent. Each morning we have 1,440 minutes deposited in our accounts, that we must spend, there is no saving it. We can choose to waste it or use it, it is all up to us.

    There is a myth that is commonly perpetuated, but is no less a myth. It is the myth that when bad things happen to us we will rise to the occasion. This is a dangerous idea, as it could not be further from the truth. It has been proven time and time again that you or I will not rise to the occasion, we will fall to the highest level of training we have mastered.

    It behoovs us to train and develop the skills we need to meet our needs during a potential disaster. This is anything from a natural disaster like a cataclysmic earthquake (The Big One) to a man-made disaster such as the next depression. These events will need an entirely different set of skills then most of us have and use on a regular basis.

    Make no mistake, these skills will be needed, it is only a matter of when not if. We all need to prepare for the eventuality choosing, not to can and probably will prove to be a fatal mistake. These are skills that our ancestors used on a daily basis, yet we have lost them through lack of need. We have been spoiled by the technology of the new world. It has made us dependent on it, and we will suffer if we do not take steps to break that dependence. we need to bring back the skills of our predecessors.

    Water

    We need to be self-sufficient and secure our own water sources whether it be through collection or retrieval. Water is life and we will not survive more than 3 days without it. If you are on city water, what happens when you cannot pay anymore, or the lines are broken due to liquefaction? How will you provide water for yourself and your family? Do you have the tools, skills and knowledge to overcome this crisis?

    Shelter

    We need to have safe and secure shelter, Is your current dwelling sufficient to provide you with this need should the big one hit? Do you have the tools, supplies, and skills to repair your house to a point where it will provide the needed shelter? What happens to you and yours when you can’t pay the rent? Will you survive without shelter? Unfortunately, you will not survive without shelter for more than 3 weeks, and those will be miserable.

    Food

    Do you grow your own food? Do you hunt and know how to dress an animal? How will you provide food for your family when the stores are empty? In the event of a disaster there will be a run on the stores. We see it every time there is some perceived threat, remember what happened this winter? Imagine it lasting 6 months, a year, or longer. Are you ready?

    Security

    Now let’s just assume, even though that is a bad idea, that you have all those bases covered. What about security? How will you protect yourself and your loved ones when disaster strikes? Because most of us now live in high-density cities we will feel the sting of not being prepared much more than the rural areas, let’s face it there are a lot of rates in the cage. When the shelves and bank accounts go empty those that have not prepared are coming for what you have. It is human nature to preserve yourself and the ones you love, you will only be an obstacle to them. Are you prepared for this eventuality? What tools do you have? What skills do you have?

    Conclusion

    I know this may sound alarmist or apocalyptic to some. But, let me ask this question, will it harm you in any way to be prepared? Knowledge is the easiest tool to carry! Always remember, the more you know, the less you need to carry. There is no harm in preparing yourself and your family for a possible disaster, but it may prove fatal if you don’t.

    As Always,
    Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

    Posted on

    Don’t be a taco sauce hero

    I hope it has been long enough to be sensitive, but not so long that you don’t remember. I have to say it angered me greatly to listen to the news about the man and his dog that survived 5 days in the wilderness on nothing more than 3 packets of taco sauce. They not only completely misrepresented what it takes to survive, they essentially made the idiot a hero. The media going to the extreme and Taco Bell stepping up to salute the young man for being so resourceful and rewarding him is ridiculous and dangerous.

    This is probably the worst thing that could have happened. It sets up a lot of ignorant albeit well-meaning people to fail in a survival situation. The facts are that this young man failed at everything but death. His situational awareness was non-existent, had he even the slightest bit he would have recognized that he was getting in over his head. He would have seen all the warning flags that were flying around his head. If he had any sense at all he would not have gotten in the bad situation in the first place. It is not as if some exigent circumstances caused the problem, it was sheer carelessness, and we paid for it. Who do you think paid for the search efforts?

    Don’t get me wrong I’m happy he and his dog survived, but it wasn’t because of taco sauce. He did enough things right after the fact, that he survived, and he would have without the taco sauce! What is being missed here by the media, and all those watching it yet ignorant of reality is the rule of threes and how it relates to survival.

    The rule of threes

    • You will not survive for longer than 3 seconds without staying calm
    • You will not survive for longer than 3 minutes without air
    • You will not survive for longer than 3 hours without shelter
    • You will not survive for longer than 3 days without water
    • You will not survive for longer than 3 weeks without food
    • You will not survive for longer than 3 months without community

    As you can see from the list above he would have survived an additional two weeks without any food, let alone the taco sauce. It was completely irrelevant. We need to take our survival and preparedness seriously and not propagate these aggrandized misconceptions about survival, that helps no one.

    I am an advocate of getting out there and exploring, pushing your limits, and expanding your skill sets. But I am wholeheartedly against being foolish and reckless, let alone the media making a circus out of such foolishness.

    Remember, Knowledge is the easiest tool to carry!

    • Know where you are going.
    • Know who you are going with.
    • Know what you are taking with you.
    • Know the limits of your own skills.
    • Know when to turn around.
    • Know better than to foolishly put yourself at risk.

    As Always,
    Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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