Disaster Preparedness Planning Information

Small Business Disaster Planning Tips

Mina — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:22:00 GMT

The SBA (Small Business Association) encourages business owners to prepare for the possibility of a major disaster and offers the following tips:

Start the disaster plan by identifying what your operation needs to do to protect itself in the face of a natural disaster. Even if you don’t own the building where you do business, take steps to protect your assets.
Determine what production machinery, computers and other essential equipment is needed to keep your business open. Store extra supplies offsite, and make a plan for a temporary location if your company is forced to relocate after the disaster. Be ready for utility disruptions with a portable generator.
Find escape routes from the business and establish meeting places. Make sure everyone understands the emergency plan before the storm hits. Designate a contact person to communicate with other employees, customers and vendors.
Review your insurance coverage to make sure you understand what is not covered. Most policies don’t cover flood damage.
The National Flood Insurance Program provides coverage to property owners. Go to the NFIP Web site at www.floodsmart.gov.
Consider business interruption insurance. It covers operating expenses, like utilities, and compensates you for the income lost after a temporary closure.
Make back-up copies of all tax, accounting, payroll and production records and customer data on computer hard drives, and store the records at an offsite location at least 100 miles away. Important documents should be saved in fireproof safe deposit boxes.
To protect your property from wind damage, install impact-resistant windows and door systems, or plywood shutters. Hire a professional to evaluate your roof to make sure it can weather a major storm.
Develop a post-disaster communications strategy. Keep current phone numbers for your suppliers, employees, customers, utility companies, local media, and emergency agencies. Appoint a spokesperson to get the word out that your company is still open and on the road to recovery, to dispel rumors of business failure.
More preparedness tips for businesses, homeowners and renters are available on the Institute for Business and Home Safety (www.ibhs.org ) also has information on protecting your home or business. The federal government’s preparedness Web site www.ready.gov is another helpful resource.

To obtain a complete small business disaster planning guide, click on SBA DISASTER PLANNING GUIDE.

Once again, Get Prepared today!

Regards,
Mina
MorePrepared.com Disaster Planning Supplies & Survival Kits

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Mina — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 23:03:00 GMT

For more information about our affiliate program, please click on our banner!

Once again, best regards,

Mina

Hurricane Planning: Emergency Supply List

Mina — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 04:14:00 GMT

You should stock your home with supplies that may be needed during the emergency period. At a minimum, these supplies should include:

Hurricane Supply List

    * Several clean containers for water, large enough for a 3-5 day supply of water (about five gallons for each person).
    * A 3-5 day supply of non-perishable food.
    * A first aid kit and manual.
    * A battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries.
    * Sleeping bags or extra blankets.
    * Water-purifying supplies, such as chlorine or iodine tablets or unscented, ordinary household chlorine bleach.
    * Prescription medicines and special medical needs.
    * Baby food and/or prepared formula, diapers, and other baby supplies.
    * Disposable cleaning cloths, such as "baby wipes" for the whole family to use in case bathing facilities are not available.
    * Personal hygiene supplies, such as soap, toothpaste, sanitary napkins, etc.
    * An emergency kit for your car with food, flares, booster cables, maps, tools, a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, sleeping bags, etc.

You can find more information on emergency plans and supply kits at Moreprepared.com.

Once again, please plan ahead for the upcoming hurricane season.

Best regards as always,

Mina

Hurricane Shutter Information Guide

Mina — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 03:51:00 GMT

Storm shutters remain the most economical solution for most homeowners to protect windows. When installing any type of shutter system, be sure to wear protective gloves. Here are four basic shutter designs.

Plywood Shutters

Barrel-bolt plywood shutters
Use on concrete-block stucco homes that have windows inset at least two inches from the exterior wall.

Buy plywood ahead of time, before the rush. Make sure it is at least 5/8 of an inch thick.

Buy 3- or 4-inch barrel bolts, enough for one bolt for a minimum of every 12 inches of plywood.

Cut the plywood sheets to size for each window, allowing for a snug fit in the inset.

For larger windows or sliding doors, attach two pieces of plywood with 2-by-4s or a piano hinge.

Attach bolts to plywood, mark where you need the holes to be drilled in the concrete stucco.

Drill holes, in marked spots in concrete stucco.

Overlapping plywood shutters
If your windows do not have a 2-inch inset, plywood shutters can overlap.

Buy plywood ahead of time, before the rush.

Make sure it is at least 5/8 of an inch thick.

Cut the plywood sheets to size for each window, allowing for an overlap of at least 4 inches. Label each panel.

Drill corresponding holes in the plywood and walls. Use a 1/4-inch drill bit for the wood. Use a masonry or carbide-tipped bit for concrete or stucco walls.

Hammer 1/4-inch lead sleeve anchors – not plastic – into the holes in the wall. The anchors should be at least 2 inches long.

When a hurricane threatens, use tapping screws at least 2 inches long to bolt the plywood in place.

Average cost: $1 - $5 per square foot
Preparation time: 1 - 1 1/2 hours per window.

Accordion Hurricane Shutters

These one- or two-piece hurricane shutters are housed beside the windows or doors when not in use. They unfold accordion-style to cover and protect during a storm.

Pros
Permanently affixed beside the windows and don't require any extra storage space.

Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.

Some models can be locked with a key and may be used as a theft deterrent.

Cons
Can look bulky and out of place on some houses.

Consider the aesthetics before having them installed.

Glide on wheels, have the potential to break more easily than some of the other systems.

Average cost: $16 - $20 per square foot
Preparation time: 15-30 minutes for an entire house

Storm Panels

These steel or aluminum shutters attach to the walls
around windows and doors on bolts or tracks.

The first style incorporates both tracks and bolts. The top of the panel is slipped into a track above the window, and the bottom of the panel is secured to bolts that are permanently attached beneath the window.

The second style uses a set of C-shaped tracks above and below the windows and doors. Bolts slide into the tracks from either side and must be manually aligned with the holes on the panels.

The third style uses only bolts permanently set into the wall beside the windows and doors. They can be loosened as the panel is hung horizontally, and screwed down to secure it.

Pros
Most inexpensive of the permanent shutter systems.

Removable, so they don't change the look of the house when not in use.

Strong, and can provide excellent protection for both doors and windows.

Cons
Require storage, but usually stack together tightly and take up little space.

Can be difficult to handle; hanging can require more than one person.

Sometimes don't line up properly.

Have sharp edges.

Average cost: $7 - $8 per square foot;
Preparation time: 15 minutes per window depending on the style.

Roll-Down Hurricane Shutters

These shutters attach above the window. They roll up and store in an enclosed box when not in use. They are lowered either manually by a hand crank or automatically by push button, and lock in place for storm protection.

Pros
Are permanently affixed above the windows and don't require any extra storage space.

Can easily be made storm-ready by one person.

Offer some of the best protection, and make an excellent theft deterrent.

Cons
Most expensive of the popular shutter systems.

Push-button-operated roll-down shutters require a battery backup system so the shutters can be lowered and raised during power outages.

Average cost: $30 - $55 per square foot
Preparation time: Minimum; probably the easiest shutter to operate.

And please always remember to have a 2 to 3 day hurricane survival kit available for home or on the road as most electricity will be out for days. Here is a good selection of hurricane survival kits to choose from Hurricane Survival Kits

Best regards,

Mina

More Prepared LLC, Sees "Pandemic Flu Kits & Swine Flu Masks" Demand Increase To Levels Not Seen Before

Mina — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:43:00 GMT

More Prepared LLC, Sees "Pandemic Flu Kits & Swine Flu Masks" Demand Increase To Levels Not Seen Before

EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA April 30, 2009 Health News

More Prepared / LLC Enlarge Image

Pandemic Flu Kit

(PRLEAP.COM) EL SEGUNDO, Calif., (April 30, 2009) - Due to the recent outbreak of Swine Flu across all regions of the United States and Mexico, the World Health Organization has raised the "Pandemic Alert Level" to a 5 out of a scale of 1 to 6. The result of this and the Department of Homeland Security’s push to get the word out for Americans to "get prepared", has caused the public to stock up on flu preparation supplies and information.

It should be noted that not all flu supplies are created equal. The FDA’s Center for Device and Radiological Health, states that respirators are a vital part of preparation to help reduce the spread of the flu virus to individuals. Both the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control endorse a properly-fitting "N95 Respirator" as one of the items, which, along with proper hand washing, cough etiquette and avoidance of crowded settings will help prevent the spread of the Swine Flu.

As the Swine Flu outbreak becomes more of an epidemic, the general public will need to be prepared to reduce exposure to airborne germs. So please make sure you are using an FDA approved respirator that will filter out viruses in health-related emergencies and not the industrial respirators found at most home supplies stores.

Mina Arnao, the Founder of More Prepared LLC, stated, "The possible pending pandemic flu warning should be taken very seriously as many manufactures have already started withholding shipments to retail and wholesale emergency suppliers. This is so that the level-one local, state, federal and health-care first-responders will have the emergency supplies they need in case the Swine Flu turns into a full-blown pandemic virus." Mina Arnao suggests that the general public stock up now before supplies are exhausted on Pandemic Flu Kits and facial respirators like the ones available online at www.moreprepared.com.

If you would like to receive a free copy of the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions guide to "Recommendations for Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza" or if you would just like some additional information on Pandemic Flu Kits and respirators, contact Mina Arnao at 888-RED-PAIL (888-733-7245) or go to MorePrepared.com.

About More Prepared LLC

More Prepared is a provider of quality emergency supplies for businesses, homes, and schools. Their mission is to help everyone prepare to "Protect Their World" in the event of an emergency, epidemic or natural disaster.

Contact Information

Mina Arnao, President
MorePrepared.com
888-RED-PAIL (888-733-7245)
Email MorePrepared.com

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Pandemic Flu Vaccine Guide

Mina — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:06:00 GMT

Pandemic Flu Vaccine Prioritization Guide

In the event of a flu pandemic, an effective vaccine may not be widely available. A prioritization plan determines which individuals and groups will be vaccinated first.

Pandemic planning requires that people and entities not accustomed to responding to health crises understand the actions and priorities required to prepare for and respond to these potential risks. Information is provided on these pages to help every sector of society, from federal, state and local government to individuals and families, participate in our national planning efforts.

For more detailed information on how the vaccines are going to be allocated, please click link below: Government_Guide_To_Vaccine_Allocations

What is a Pandemic

A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges for which people have little or no immunity, and for which there is no vaccine. The disease spreads easily person-to-person, causes serious illness, and can sweep across the country and around the world in very short time. There have been three pandemic outbreaks in the last 100 years killing 800,000 people here in the United States and over 50 million worldwide.

During an outbreak, reduce the risk of becoming infected or infecting others by avoiding crowded settings, washing your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based cleaner, covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing and properly discarding used tissues. Be sure to stockpile extra food and water in case you cannot get to the store or if they run out of supplies. If you must come in contact with a sick person, don protective gear.

For more home and business flu preparation supplies visit us at MorePrepared.com

Stay healthy and safe this flu season,

Best Wishes as always,

Mina

Pandemic Flu: Good Health Habits

Mina — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Pandemic Flu: Good Health Habits

The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. There also are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent the flu.

1) Avoid close contact.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

2) Stay home when you are sick.

If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

3) Cover your mouth and nose.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

4) Clean your hands.

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

5) Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

6) Practice other good health habits.

Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

If you are looking for even more ways to plan for pandemic flu, you might want to consider the following items:

Pandemic Flu Kit

Be prepared to stay healthy when everyone around you is sick. Kit contains the following:

•(1) Impervious gown
•(1) Goggles
•(2) FDA-approved pandemic flu respirators
•(2) Pairs of nitrile gloves
•(10) Antimicrobial wipes
•(1) Antiseptic hand gel
•(2) Tissue packs
•(2) Biohazard waste bags

Please be safe during this flu season!

Regards,

Mina

CERT Team Suplies - Portable Restroom

Mina — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 19:34:00 GMT

CERT Team - Emergency Portable Restrooms

Whether you are camping, traveling or you want to be prepared for an emergency when plumbing is down, don't forget one of life's necessities; a clean and sanitary bathroom. ThePETT complete system includes thePETT toilet, thePUP privacy shelter, theTOTE backpack and 15 WAGBAG Toilet in a Bag waste kits. All items fit in the backpack which has an expandable pocket and contains an additional collection bag to transport used waste bags.

The Pup Privacy Shelter is made of a flame retardant gray Taffetta 10C, the PUP privacy shelter requires no assembly and sets up in seconds. Poles and connectors are attached. Simply pull up on the lanyard at the top of the tent and lock the legs in place. Tent stands 6' 6" tall with a sanitary floorless base that measures 4' x 4' and ground secure flaps on 3 sides. The PUP privacy shelter has three screened privacy windows with covers for cross ventilation; a 63" high zip close door and a utility storage pocket. A flap and loop at the top of the tent allows for a shower head or a light.

The PETT Portable Toilet is made of injection molded plastic with three locking legs, ThePETT toilet is the same height and bowl size of a standard toilet, yet folds to a mere 5" x 19" x 14" (the size of a briefcase). Weight limit tested by supporting the front end of a truck on 2 PETT toilets! The patented drip edge under the seat keeps the top of the waste collection bag clean for easy disposal.

The PETT Toilet System Backpack is made of a sturdy black fabric with heavy duty zippers and padded adjustable straps for easy transport, the Tote backpack is custom designed to hold the entire PETT toilet system. The TOTE backpack meets current airport carry-on size with dimensions of 25" x 15" x 6". There are separate storage areas for the PETT toilet; the unused waste kits; straps to secure the PUP privacy shelter in the gusseted outer pocket, and an expandable compartment to pack out used kits.

The WAG BAG Toilet in a Bag Waste Bags is a biodegradable double bag system made from puncture resistant materials. Each waste kit includes a zip close disposal/transport bag, a waste collection bag preloaded with Poo Powder waste treatment, toilet paper and a hand sanitizer. Our non-toxic Poo Powder waste treatment treats up to 32 ounces of liquid and solid waste allowing for multiple use. It turns liquid waste to a solid for hygienic and spill-proof transport. The Poo Powder waste treatment controls odors and contains a decay catalyst that breaks down solid waste.

ThePETT Complete System weighs 17.5 lbs.

Kit Includes Everything below:

+ +

For more information about this product for you community CERT Team:

please visit us at MorePrepared.com

(CERT, shelter-in-place, portable restrooms, portable bathrooms, portable toilets, disaster supplies, emergency planning supplies)

Save Someone's LIFE with Philips HeartStart Defibrillator

Mina — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:22:00 GMT

Philips HeartStart Onsite

Every single American knows someone or has had someone in his or her workplace or family suffer from a heart attack. That's why more and more families and businesses are taking steps to increase the chances of savings someone's life if a heart attack should happen at home or work. Today's technology allows most homes and business affordable life saving technology that can make the difference in the time of an emergency. We have researched the various portable heart defibrillators on the market and our top choice is the Philip's HeartStart defibrillator. At $1,200, this unit is highly reliable and affordable and should be included in your home or office emergency and disaster planning kits.

Weighing just 3.3 lbs., this small and lightweight defibrillator can be easily carried to the patient's side. Using clear, natural voice instructions, the OnSite Defibrillator guides you, the first caregiver on the scene, through each step of defibrillation and CPR. Integrated SMART Pads placed on the patient's bare skin transmit information to the defibrillator, which senses and adapts to your actions every step of the way.
HeartStart AED includes proven Philips technologies for heart rhythm assessment (SMART Analysis) and defibrillation energy delivery (SMART Biphasic). And like all HeartStart defibrillators, it can be used to treat infants, children and adults.

HeartStart AED is powered by a disposable battery, the same technology used in cameras. Just click the battery in place, and the defibrillator is in standing by, ready for use.

Between uses, the defibrillator performs daily, weekly, and monthly self-tests of its electrical components, subsystems, and battery to help ensure continued reliability and readiness. A pads integrity test, which checks daily that the cartridge is properly installed and that the defibrillator pads are in working order, provides an additional level of assurance.

As long as the green Ready light on the defibrillator is blinking, you can be certain the HeartStart AED is ready for use. If any part of the defibrillator needs attention, the Ready light turns off and the defibrillator will chirp to alert you. Pressing the flashing blue Information button provides verbal guidance to help you identify and correct the situation.

As always,

Please plan ahead!

Regards,

Mina

(heart attack, heart conditions, cardio, defibrillator, cardiac arrest)

How To Make First-Aid Kits for Dogs

Mina — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:22:00 GMT

Since you never know when an accident will happen, keeping a pet emergency kit at your home is a good idea. A smaller dog first-aid kit could be purchased for less than 420 and used in the car or truck. Or you can put a first aid kit together yourself and buy the items separately. If you make one yourself, use a small plastic tub with a tight fitting lid to store the following items:

Important Phone Numbers
•	Veterinary clinic phone number and directions to the clinic
•	Emergency clinic phone number and directions
•	Poison control center phone numbers
Equipment and Supplies
•	Muzzle, or roll of gauze for making a muzzle
•	Magnifying glass
•	Scissors
•	Tweezers
•	Nail clippers and metal nail file
•	Styptic powder or sticks, Kwik Stop, or cornstarch
•	Penlight
•	Nylon slip leash
•	Eye dropper or oral syringe
•	Cotton swabs
•	Cotton balls
•	Clean towels - cloth and paper
•	Rectal thermometer
•	Lubricant such as mineral oil or KY Jelly (without spermicide)
•	Disposable gloves
•	Syringes of various sizes
•	Needle-nose pliers or hemostats
•	Grease-cutting dish soap
•	Bitter Apple or other product to discourage licking
•	Pet carrier
•	Towel or blanket to use as a stretcher, another to keep your dog warm during transport (some pharmacies and camping outlets carry a thermal blanket)
•	Cold packs and heat packs (wrap in towel before using)
•	Stethoscope

Bandaging Materials
•	Square gauze of various sizes - some sterile
•	Non-stick pads
•	First aid tape - both paper (easily comes off of skin) and adhesive types
•	Bandage rolls - gauze and Vetwrap
•	Band-Aids (for humans)
Nutritional Support
•	Re hydrating solution such as Gatorade or Pedialyte
•	Nutritional supplement such as Nutri-Cal, Vitacal, or Nutristat
•	High sugar source: Karo syrup
Medicines
•	Wound disinfectant such as Betadine or Nolvasan
•	Triple antibiotic ointment for skin
•	Antibiotic ophthalmic ointment for eyes, e.g., Terramycin
•	Eye wash solution
•	Sterile saline
•	Anti diarrheal medicine such as Pet Pectate
•	Buffered or canine aspirin
•	Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergic reactions
•	Cortisone spray or cream, such as Itch Stop
•	Ear cleaning solution
•	Hydrogen peroxide (used to make a dog vomit)
•	Activated charcoal to absorb ingested poisons (consult your veterinarian before using)

Good luck making your first-aid kit for your dog!

Regards,

Mina

Wildfire Home Safety Planning

Mina — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:05:00 GMT

While more and more people are living in homes in brush and woodland areas near mountains and hillsides.

Wildfires continue to become more and more common. Wildfires often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes. Reduce your risk by preparing now before wildfire strikes. Meet with your family to decide what to do and where to go if wildfires threaten your area. Follow the steps listed below to protect your family, home, and property.

Protect Your Home From Wildfires

Regularly clean roof and gutters.
Inspect chimneys at least twice a year. Clean them at least once a year. Keep the dampers in good working order. Equip chimneys and stovepipes with a spark arrester that meets the requirements of National Fire Protection Association Code 211. (Contact your local fire department for exact specifications.)
Use 1/2-inch mesh screen beneath porches, decks, floor areas, and the home itself. Also, screen openings to floors, roof, and attic.
Install a smoke detector on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms; test monthly and change the batteries at least once each year.
Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type) and show them where it's kept.
Keep a ladder that will reach the roof.
Consider installing protective shutters or heavy fire-resistant drapes.
Keep handy household items that can be used as fire tools: a rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket, and shovel.

Create a 30- to 100-Foot Safety Zone

Within this area, you can take steps to reduce potential exposure to flames and radiant heat. Homes built in pine forests should have a minimum safety zone of 100 feet. If your home sits on a steep slope, standard protective measures may not suffice. Contact your local fire department or forestry of fice for additional information.
Rake leaves, dead limbs, and twigs. Clear all flammable vegetation.
Remove leaves and rubbish from under structures and dispose of them properly.
Thin a 15-foot space between tree crowns, and remove limbs within 15 feet of the ground.
Remove dead branches that extend over the roof.
Prune tree branches and shrubs within 15 feet of a stovepipe or chimney outlet.
Ask the power company to clear branches from powerlines.
Remove vines from the walls of the home.
Mow grass regularly.
Clear a 10-foot area around propane tanks and the barbecue. Place a screen over the grill--use non-flammable material with mesh no coarser than one-quarter inch.
Regularly dispose of newspapers and rubbish at an approved site. Follow local burning regulations.
Place stove, fireplace, and grill ashes in a metal bucket, soak in water for two days, then bury the cold ashes in mineral soil.
Store gasoline, oily rags, and other flammable materials in approved safety cans. Place cans in a safe location away from the base of buildings.
Stack firewood at least 100 feet away and uphill from your home. Clear combustible material within 20 feet. Use only UL-approved woodburning devices.

Emergency Supplies For A Wildfire

When wildfire threatens, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit with items you may need if advised to evacuate. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, dufflebags, or trash containers.

Include:

A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil.
One change of clothing and footwear per person and one blanket or sleeping bag per person.
A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications.
Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries.
An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash, or traveler's checks.
Sanitation supplies.
Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
An extra pair of eyeglasses.
Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Assemble a smaller version of your kit to keep in the trunk of your car.

Wildfire Family Disaster Plan

Wildfire and other types of disasters--hurricane, flood, tornado, ealthquake, hazardous matenals spill, winter storm--can strike quickly and without warning. You can cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together. Meet with your family to create a disaster plan. To get started. . .

Wildfire Meeting Places

Pick two meeting places:

A place a safe distance from your home in case of a home fire.
A place outside your neighborhood in case you can't return home.

Choose an out-of-state friend as a "check-in contact" for everyone to call.

Please take these basic steps to prepare for wildfires around your home.

Regards,

Mina

Fire Prevention Week

Mina — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 22:46:00 GMT

Fire Prevention Week

This month, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sponsors a fire prevention campaign to help educate the public and raise awareness on fire safety. This year, the focus is on fire prevention in the home where 80% of U.S. fire deaths occur. Here are some very interesting facts about fires in the U.S.:

Leading cause of fires in the home are due to cooking, heating equipment and electrical problems.

65% of fire deaths occurred in homes with either no smoke alarms or where the smoke alarms were not working.

Smoking materials (i.e. cigarettes) are the leading cause of fire deaths: 700-900 per year.

December and January are the prime months of fire from home heating equipment.

Electrical fires account for 20,800 home structure fires per year with 330 fire deaths.

Your can protect your family and your home by following some basic guidelines and taking precautions recommended by the NFPA.

Have a smoke alarm in each bedroom and on every level of the home

Test smoke alarms monthly

Install a carbon monoxide alarm

Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn

Inspect wiring to make sure it meets code and that they are in good condition

Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food

Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy metal screen

Have your chimney cleaned and inspected each year

Ask smokers to smoke only outside the home

Don’t burn candles in the bedroom

Create a home fire escape plan and practice it twice a year

With a little planning and awareness, your home and family will be protected and you won’t end up a statistic!

Be safe!

Mina

Emergency Radios for Disaster Planning

Mina — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:04:00 GMT

Emergency Radio are a must for every family and business. It should be obvious to anyone following the news and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina most people were terribly unprepared - even those who evacuated. The effect of Katrina - damage, loss of life, and general chaos - has been compared to a terrorist attack and even an atomic bomb exploding.

The only communication that dependably continued after all the power grids, cell phone and other infrastructure collapsed was one radio station: WWL-AM.

The question is: are you prepared? Are you prepared for a natural disaster? Are you prepared for a terrorist attack? Any preparations you make should absolutely include a radio. But, not just any radio - one designed for emergency situations and preferably, one manufactured to operate independently from electricity or batteries.

A week after the Gulf Coast was pummled by Katrina Sfgate.com reported: "To expedite the rescues, the Coast Guard requested through the media that anyone stranded hang out brightly colored or white linens or something else to draw attention. But with the electricity out though much of the city, it was not known if the message was being received."

That is why you must be prepaired in the event of a disaster. Emergency Radios are varied and affordable. Every family and business should have one. Below I have put together some of the best options for emergency radios and radio/apparatus combinations you can find. If you are serious about the safety of your family, you should seriously consider these options.

Emergency Radios For Natural Disasters and Terror Attacks

(For more information and prices, click on the pictures)

Oregon Scientific Portable Public Alert Weather Radio

Emergency Solar Radio, Flashlight w/Cell Phone Charger

Again, I hope this help you all be more aware of the unique products now available for disaster preparedness planning.

Regards,

Mina

Potassium Iodide Facts

Mina — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:15:00 GMT

Under 44 CFR 351, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has established roles and responsibilities for Federal agencies in assisting state and local governments in their radiological emergency planning and preparedness activities. The Federal agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), are to carry out these roles and responsibilities as members of the Federal Radiological Preparedness Coordinating Committee (FRPCC). Under 44 CFR 351.23(f), HHS is directed to provide guidance to state and local governments on the use of radio protective substances and the prophylactic use of drugs (e.g., KI) to reduce the radiation dose to specific organs. This guidance includes information about dosage and projected radiation exposures at which such drugs should be used.

The FDA has provided guidance previously on the use of KI as a thyroid blocking agent. In the Federal Register of December 15, 1978, FDA announced its conclusion that KI is a safe and effective means by which to block uptake of radioiodines by the thyroid gland in a radiation emergency under certain specified conditions of use.

Click image to purchase tablets

In 1982, the FDA approved potassium iodide tablets for blocking the thyroid's absorption of cancer-causing radioactive iodine (only the thyroid absorbs iodine). Saturate the thyroid with stable iodine so it won't absorb radioactive iodine from a nuclear reactor release or nuclear bomb fallout.

FDA Conclusions (from the following FDA report.........

A. Use of KI in Radiation Emergencies: Rationale, Effectiveness, Safety

For the reasons discussed about the Chernobyl accident, data provide the most reliable information available to date on the relationship between internal thyroid radioactive dose and cancer risk. They suggest that the risk of thyroid cancer is inversely related to age, and that, especially in young children, it may accrue at very low levels of radioiodine exposure. We have relied on the Chernobyl data to formulate our specific recommendations below.

The effectiveness of KI as a specific blocker of thyroid radioiodine uptake is well established (Il'in LA, et al., 1972) as are the doses necessary for blocking uptake. As such, it is reasonable to conclude that KI will likewise be effective in reducing the risk of thyroid cancer in individuals or populations at risk for inhalation or ingestion of radioiodines.

Short-term administration of KI at thyroid blocking doses is safe and, in general, more so in children than adults.

For more information about potassium iodide tablets download this document that talk more about the use of Potassium Iodide for Radiation Protection.

Below is a chart of Recommended Doses of Potassium Iodide for Different Risk Groups

Threshold Thyroid Radioactive Exposures and Recommended Doses of KI for Different Risk Groups
	Predicted Thyroid exposure(cGy)	KI dose (mg)	# of 130 mg tablets	# of 65 mg tablets
Adults over 40 yrs	>500	130	1	2
Adults over 18 through 40 yrs	>10
Pregnant or lactating women	> 5
Adoles. over 12 through 18 yrs*		65	1/2	1
Children over 3 through 12 yrs		65	1/2	1
Over 1 month through 3 years		32	1/4	1/2
Birth through 1 month		16	1/8	1/4

I hope you find this helpful in preparing for today's nuclear age and bouts of world terrorism.

Regards,

Mina

FEMA Distaster Planning Information for Pets

Mina — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 01:56:00 GMT

Disaster recovery officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) urge you to have a disaster plan for your pets in preparation for the new hurricane season.

"The destructive hurricanes of 2004 and 2005 underscored the importance of accounting for animal needs during major disasters," said Scott Morris, FEMA director for Florida Long-Term Recovery.

With hurricane season upon us, your pets need to be included in your family emergency plan.

"People must have a disaster plan that includes their pets," said Laura Bevan, southeast regional director for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). "Our best advice is if you evacuate, take your pet with you."

Bevan has been working with local governments and volunteer groups in establishing pet-friendly shelters. Many Florida counties have shelters where people can evacuate with their pets, including Broward, Marion and Orange. Bevan describes the shelters as having "people in one building and the animals close by in another part of the building and the people take care of their own pets."

To find out if there is a pet-friendly shelter in your area, call your county emergency management office or check the office's Web site. You should also contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.

Before the Disaster: Have a Safe Place to Take Your Pets

Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.

    *      Service animals that assist people with disabilities are allowed in Red Cross shelters. It may be difficult to find shelter for your animals in the midst of a disaster, so plan ahead. Do not wait until disaster strikes to do your research. Many communities are developing pet-friendly shelter plans, check to see if your local emergency shelter plan includes pets.

    *      Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.

    *      Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to check policies on accepting pets and restrictions on number, size, and species. Ask if "no pet" policies could be waived in an emergency. Keep a list of "pet friendly" places, including phone numbers, with other disaster information and supplies. If you have notice of an impending disaster, call ahead for reservations. Go to www.petswelcome.com to search online for pet friendly hotels and motels.

    *      Prepare a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency; include 24-hour phone numbers.

    *      Ask local animal shelters if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets in a disaster. Animal shelters may be overburdened caring for the animals they already have as well as those displaced by a disaster, so this should be your last resort.

Prepare a portable disaster supply kit for your pet

Keep items in an accessible place and store them in sturdy containers that can be carried easily.

    *      Proper identification, including immunization records, and current photos

    *      Ample supply of food and water

    *      A carrier or cage, pet beds and toys

    *      Medications, medical records and a first aid kit

    *      Use sturdy leashes, harnesses, carriers to transport pets safely to ensure that your animals can't escape.

    *      Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets.

Know What to Do As a Disaster Approaches

    *      Warnings are issued hours, even days, in advance. At the first hint of disaster, act to protect your pet.

    *      Call ahead to confirm emergency shelter arrangements for you and your pets.

    *      Check to be sure your pet disaster supplies are ready to take at a moment's notice.

    *      Bring all pets into the house so that you won't have to search for them if you have to leave in a hurry.

    *      Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars and securely fastened up-to-date identification. Attach the phone number and address of your temporary shelter, if you know it, or of a friend or relative outside the disaster area. You can buy temporary tags or put adhesive tape on the back of your pet's ID tag, adding information with an indelible pen.

You may not be home when the evacuation order comes. Find out if a trusted neighbor would be willing to take your pets and meet you at a prearranged location. This person should be comfortable with your pets, know where your animals are likely to be, know where your pet disaster supplies kit is kept, and have a key to your home. If you use a pet-sitting service, they may be available to help, but discuss the possibility well in advance.

Planning and preparation will enable you to evacuate with your pets quickly and safely. But bear in mind that animals react differently under stress. Outside your home and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. Transport cats in carriers. Don't leave animals unattended anywhere they can run off. The most trustworthy pets may panic, hide, try to escape, or even bite or scratch. And, when you return home, give your pets time to settle back into their routines. Consult your veterinarian if any behavior problems persist.

Check out these Web sites for further information on disaster preparations for your pet:

   * Humane Society of the U.S.: www.hsus.org/hsus_field/hsus_disaster_center/

   * Information on Pet-friendly hotels: www.petswelcome.com

   * Pet survival and first-aid kits: www.moreprepared.com

FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Just some more helpful planning for you and your family pets!

Regards,

Mina

Survival Kits for School Children

Mina — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 01:20:00 GMT

MorePrepared.com is proud to introduce the “Kids School Survival Kit”, an emergency survival kit for school kids in preschool through elementary. This comprehensive kit contains a three-day supply of food and water as well as an emergency blanket, light stick, tissues and other items which will come in handy during an emergency. The shelf-life of the food and water is five years making it an economical choice for parents who are tired of replacing their kits each school year. The food is tasty and comes in many flavors kids like such as cherry, blueberry, and raspberry and the water is packaged in little boxes with straws that kids are used to. An activity pad and Crayola crayons completes this “kid-friendly” kit which comes in an easy-to-carry plastic case or an economical zippered plastic bag for a few dollars less. “What differentiates our kit from others is that it was born out of necessity and specially designed with our own kids in mind” stated Mina Arnao, President of More Prepared.

Many states, such as California where earthquakes are a known and foreseeable event, require schools to have an emergency kit or supplies for their students. Schools will often ask the parents to bring in their own kits which results in either the kits never being turned in or being turned in with less than adequate supplies. Store-bought food and bottled water have a short shelf-life and items such as thermal blankets and light sticks can be difficult to find in stores.

The “Kids Kit” is available online at www.moreprepared.com for $15 (plastic case) or $12 (zippered bag). Volume discounts are given to schools or to PTA’s that sell them for fundraisers. For additional information click here “Kids Kit”.

More Prepared is a provider of quality emergency supplies for schools, businesses and homes. Their mission is to help everyone “Protect Their World” in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.

Again, I hope this help you all be more aware of the unique products now available for disaster preparedness planning.

Regards,

Mina

Hurricane Fay - Do You Have A Hurricane Survival Kit

Mina — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Preparing for Hurricane Season

NOW's the time to get prepared, well before the actual start of Hurricane Season.... you should have already started stockpiling and preparing for the storm season. After a storm most necessity's are not easily available for purchase or handout by the authorities.

Are you planning on using some of those left over MRE's Kits - Meals-Ready-To-Eat and supplies you gathered after Katrina? Be sure you check expiration dates on old supplies and refresh as needed!!

"Above is some video form the local news stations regarding storm preparation"

KNOW SOME OF THE DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH A STORM.

     * Flooding can occur from heavy rains,rivers,drainage ditches.

     * Storm Surge typically associated with the land falling hurricane.
      Depending on intensity of storm, can cover extremely large areas
      of coastline, as Katrina demonstrated. The storm surge typically causes
the most deaths associated with a hurricane.

     * High Winds roof damage, falling trees, power lines, can demolish entire
      homes.

     * Tornadoes ooften occur with land falling hurricanes. Can cause tremendous
      wind type damage very far from the center of a hurricane in unexpected areas.

Step 1.

Know what potential hazards may affect you or your home. Flooding potential, storm surge susceptibility. If your home or residence may flood. LEAVE. Katrina has given us many stories of people who stayed in their homes and were flooded due to unexpected storm surge levels.

Step 2.

Start collecting material and supplies NOW. Wood / Shutters for boarding up windows. Don't wait until the last minute to try to acquire wood and then cut and mount it. Have it precut and ready to mount. Store it until needed. I know from experience that trying to hold a 8x4 plywood sheet on a ladder in gusty wind is very difficult.
Who would have guessed that the ply-lock clips used to mount plywood sheets on windows would disappear off the shelfs as a storm approached.. Prepare Early.

Test your generator NOW and perform any repairs. A generator that doesn't work properly after the storm is not very helpful.

Step 3.

Have an evacuation plan. While you can not easily say where exactly you will evacuate months in advance. Have maps available and write down your plans. Ensure your friends and family know where you plan to evacuate. (Its very difficult to reserve motel rooms in some areas once people start evacuating. Rooms as far as Memphis, TN become scarce during large mass evacuations. So make your reservations early. If you plan to evacuate).

Step 4.

If a hurricane develops. Stay Informed! Do be caught by surprise if a storms path or intensity changes. We know that a storms path and intensity can change dramatically in hours. In sometimes, unexpected manners. OBEY your local governments recommendations. If they suggest you leave the area..seriously consider leaving. Know where local shelters are setup. Know what is allowed to take to a shelter. Don't just show up without food or water or blankets. They may not be setup to provide them. They will be providing a place thats safer to stay in than your home in most cases.

Hope you find it useful.

Mina

How to Choose a Good Survival Kit for Your Home

Mina — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:56:00 GMT

How to Choose a Good Survival Kit for Your Home

When you set out to choose an emergency survival kit for your home, keep in mind that no kit out there is right for everyone. In addition, most kits out there contain only the basic necessities. It is your job to add to it to make it complete for you and your family by asking yourself:

1. How many people do I want this kit to sustain?
2. How many days do I want to sustain myself and my family?
3. What special needs do we have?

A basic survival kit should contain food, water, shelter, lights, communication, first aid and some tools. Anything additional is a bonus, anything less is not adequate. The kit should have a MINIMUM 3-day supply of food and water. It would be preferable for the food and water to have a long shelf-life so that you don’t have to continually rotate or replenish it.

In a severe disaster, when first responders, utilities and basic services are down or spread thin, you may need to be on your own for a week or more. Keep an adequate supply of your regular canned and other foods on hand which you should rotate to keep fresh. In an emergency, you will want the comfort of eating familiar foods.

Most pre-made kits don’t contain enough water so you will also want to store more using other methods such as a large barrel or bottled water. A family of four would need 28 gallons for a week for drinking, cooking and sanitation. A 55-gallon barrel will provide this family of four for 14 days.

Make sure the kit you select does not rely on batteries to power your flashlight or radio. Most batteries have a limited shelf life and there’s a chance they may already be weak or dead when you need them. Don’t take any chances. Look for kits that have dynamo or solar powered radios and flashlights.

The kit you choose should have items to keep you warm and sheltered in the event that you are not able to stay in your house. Blankets, sleeping bags, tents, gloves, warmer pads, ponchos etc. are a few of the basics.

First aid kits are important to treat minor injuries from cuts, scrapes, burns etc. A first aid guide can help as well.

A basic necessity often overlooked in preparing for an emergency is a toilet. Most people assume the plumbing will continue to work and have never envisioned having no place to “go”. A simple solution is a bucket, bags and paper. Many basic kits come in a bucket for this reason. You could dig holes in your backyard, but why?

Don’t forget to add items to your basic kit to meet any special needs such as for infants or the elderly, special diets, medication, contact lenses, spare glasses etc. Cash is also helpful in small denominations.

Having a kit that you have put some thought into will go a long way to alleviating stress during an emergency. Get started on putting yours together today.

Best of Luck,

Mina - www.MorePrepared.Com

888-733-7245

CERT Training and Supplies

Mina — Wed, 21 May 2008 20:48:00 GMT

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

Starting

We recommend a number of steps to start a CERT:

Identify the program goals that CERT will meet and the resources available to conduct the program in your area.
Gain approval from appointed and elected officials to use CERT as a means to prepare citizens to care for themselves during a disaster when services may not be adequate. This is an excellent opportunity for the government to be proactive in working with its constituency.
Identify and recruit potential participants. Naturals for CERT are community groups, business and industry workers, and local government workers.
Train CERT instructor cadre
Conduct CERT sessions.
Conduct refresher training and exercises with CERTs.

Delivery

The CERT course is delivered in the community by a team of first responders who have the requisite knowledge and skills to instruct the sessions. It is suggested that the instructors complete a CERT Train-the-Trainer (TTT) conducted by their State Training Office for Emergency Management or the Emergency Management Institute in order to learn the training techniques that are used successfully by the LAFD.

The CERT training for community groups is usually delivered in 2 1/2 hour sessions, one evening a week over a 7 week period. The training consists of the following:

Session I, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: Addresses hazards to which people are vulnerable in their community. Materials cover actions that participants and their families take before, during, and after a disaster. As the session progresses, the instructor begins to explore an expanded response role for civilians in that they should begin to consider themselves disaster workers. Since they will want to help their family members and neighbors, this training can help them operate in a safe and appropriate manner. The CERT concept and organization are discussed as well as applicable laws governing volunteers in that jurisdiction.
Session II, DISASTER FIRE SUPPRESSION: Briefly covers fire chemistry, hazardous materials, fire hazards, and fire suppression strategies. However, the thrust of this session is the safe use of fire extinguishers, sizing up the situation, controlling utilities, and extinguishing a small fire.
Session III, DISASTER MEDICAL OPERATIONS PART I: Participants practice diagnosing and treating airway obstruction, bleeding, and shock by using simple triage and rapid treatment techniques.
Session IV, DISASTER MEDICAL OPERATIONS, PART II: Covers evaluating patients by doing a head to toe assessment, establishing a medical treatment area, performing basic first aid, and practicing in a safe and sanitary manner.
Session V, LIGHT SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS: Participants learn about search and rescue planning, size-up, search techniques, rescue techniques, and most important, rescuer safety.
Session VI, DISASTER PSYCHOLOGY AND TEAM ORGANIZATION: Covers signs and symptoms that might be experienced by the disaster victim and worker. It addresses CERT organization and management principles and the need for documentation.
Session VII, COURSE REVIEW AND DISASTER SIMULATION: Participants review their answers from a take home examination. Finally, they practice the skills that they have learned during the previous six sessions in disaster activity.

During each session participants are required to bring safety equipment (gloves, goggles, mask) and disaster supplies (bandages, flashlight, dressings) which will be used during the session. By doing this for each session, participants are building a disaster response kit of items that they will need during a disaster.

For more information on CERT Programs go to the CERT website: http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/index.shtm

Best Regards - Mina

EarthQuake Preparation Guide

Mina — Wed, 21 May 2008 20:42:00 GMT

Earthquakes

One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible aftereffects. An earthquake is a sudden movement of the earth, caused by the abrupt release of strain that has accumulated over a long time.

For hundreds of millions of years, the forces of plate tectonics have shaped the earth, as the huge plates that form the earth’s surface slowly move over, under, and past each other. Sometimes, the movement is gradual. At other times, the plates are locked together, unable to release the accumulating energy. When the accumulated energy grows strong enough, the plates break free. If the earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths and injuries and extensive property damage.

October 17, 1989 in San Francisco, California (Marina District Earthquake Area)

Take Protective Measures

Before an Earthquake

The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your property in the event of an earthquake:

Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas lines, and inflexible utility connections. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself.
Bolt down and secure to the wall studs your water heater, refrigerator, furnace, and gas appliances. If recommended by your gas company, have an automatic gas shut-off valve installed that is triggered by strong vibrations.
Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves, mirrors, and large picture frames to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects.
Store bottled foods, glass, china, and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that fasten shut.
Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.
Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation.
Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage.
Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by moving to these places during each drill.
Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover, and hold on!
Have a home survival kit to last you 72 hours.

Download this free "official guide" produced by the Los Angeles Fire Department: Emergency Preparedness Manual

Be safe and plan ahead!!!

Regards,

Mina