EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS

I hope you participated in the Great Utah Shake Out (or whatever state you live in)event held 4/17/2012. Even if you hid under your desk for a couple of seconds cursing your employer for making you play along, at least it made you think for a small fraction of time about being prepared.

 

At work we were invited to watch a video (Watch Utah Preparedness Now Video) which depicts what will likely happen in the Wasatch Front if a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hits, then we had a speaker from the Utah Emergency Management Association speak to us on preparedness.

One thing that really stuck with me was when our speaker said his first responsibility was to his family. When and if a major emergency hits, all emergency response individuals will be checking on their families first, then they will turn to helping others. I am not sure why it was such a shock to me to learn this, I guess I just assumed it was their responsibility to immediately start helping, but if I were in their position I would do the exact same thing.

During the video and discussion 72 hour kits were addressed repeatedly, along with having adequate water, food, emergency supplies, heat and communication devices. It certainly made me think about how far I have come in my preparedness journey.  I was only missing three things on their list of recommended prepping tasks.  One was a fire extinguisher, which I now have.  I purchased the fire extinguisher for less than $20.00 (Click to purchase extinguisher). The Second is to secure the water heater. I have not done this yet, but it is next on my list, hopefully this weekend.  Here is a video for installing straps to secure your water heater, it is quite lengthy, but gives several scenarios for different installation types. (secure water heater video). The Third prepping task that I have not completed is retrofitting my 1913 house to current earthquake standards.  Well, that isn’t on my list at all, maybe if I hit the lottery, but chances are I will buy a new house instead.

Here are some of my favorite emergency supplies:

2 Person 72 Hour Kit Sale Price $79.10 (You must contact me directly to get this sale price unless you are a Q customer.) We have 14 different Pre-assembled kits to choose from if the 2 Person kit isn’t what you are looking for. Click for all Pre-assembled kits

 

First Aid Kit Sale Price $35.99 (You must contact me directly to get this sale price unless you are a Q customer.) We have several different First Aid Kits available to choose from depending on your specific needs. Click for all First Aid Kits

 

QuickclotSport Silver $23.99. This is a must have in your 72 hour kit, to stop any bleeding from heavy wound.  We also offer Quickclot Sport $12.99, this version is not anti bacterial to help with infection but will stop the bleeding just as well as the Quickclot Sport Silver.

Gas shut off tool $6.49. Remember to only shut off your gas main if you smell gas. Only an employee from the gas company can turn your service back on.

100 GallonWater Filtration Bottle $29.99. If you are on the move or are suspicious of your water source, this is a wonderful light weight bottle that removes harmful microscopic pathogens such a Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Viruses and other cysts and spores.

Red Cross Microlink Radio  $39.99. This solar-powered AM/FM/NOAA radio comes complete with a flashlight, USB port and earphone jack. Both lightweight and weatherproof, this 3 in 1 tool is a must in any emergency.

Cat Emergency Kit or Dog Emergency Kit $59.00. Don't forget your four legged friends during an emergency.

Below are some preparedness guides complied by the Utah Seismic Safety Commission.

You may also visit their website at http://beready.utah.gov/beready/earthquakePreparedness.html

Preparing Your Family For An

Earthquake

When preparing for an earthquake, plan on having enough supplies to get you and your family through at least the first 72 hours. After a major earthquake, there's a good chance that traditional emergency response teams will be too busy to take care of you and your family. You need to prepare your home and neighborhood.

The Plan

• Stock up on at least a three-day supply of food, water, clothes, medical supplies and other necessary equipment for everyone in your family. Make sure everyone knows where to find them.
• Decide where and when to reunite your family should you be apart when an earthquake happens.
• Choose a person outside the immediate area to contact if family members are separated. Long distance phone service will probably be restored sooner than local service. Do not use the phone immediately after the earthquake.
• Know the policies of the school or daycare center your children attend. Make plans to have someone pick them up if you are unable to get them.
• If you have a family member that does not speak English, prepare an emergency card written in English indicating that persons identification, address and any special needs such as medication or allergies. Tell that person to keep the card with him/her at all times.
• Conduct Earthquake: Duck, Cover & Hold drills every six months with your family.
• Know the safest place in each room because it will be difficult to move from one room to another during an earthquake.
• Locate the shutoff valves for water, gas and electricity. Learn how to shut off the valves before a quake. If you have any questions, call your utility company.
• Make copies of vital records and keep them in a safe deposit box in another city or state. Make sure originals are stored safely.
• Before a quake occurs, call your local Red Cross chapter and Office of Emergency Services to find out about their plans for emergency shelters and temporary medical centers in case of such a disaster.
• Establish all the possible ways to exit your house. Keep those areas clear.
• Know the locations of the nearest fire and police stations.
• Take photos and/or videos of your valuables. Make copies and keep them in another city or state.
• Include your babysitter and other household help in your plans.
• Keep an extra pair of eyeglasses and house and car keys on hand.
• Keep extra cash and change. If electricity is out, you will not be able to use an ATM.

General Tips

• Stay away from heavy furniture, appliances, large glass panes, shelves holding objects, and other large decorative masonry, brick or plaster such as fireplaces.
• Keep your hallway clear. It is usually one of the safest places to be during an earthquake.
• Stay away from kitchens and garages, which tend to be the most dangerous places because of the many items kept there.

Tips for Pet Owners

Before an Earthquake

• Store enough food and water to last for 72 hours, preferably for one week. 
• Prepare a shelter or evacuation kit for your pet, including an unbreakable dish, veterinarian records, a restraint (leash or pet carrier) and medication with instructions.
• Keep your pet’s ID tag up-to-date.
• Make sure nothing can fall on your pet.
• Arrange for a neighbor to take care of your pet if you are not able to get home after earthquake.

During and After an Earthquake

• Do not try to hold on to your pet during the shaking. Animals will instinctively protect themselves and hide where they’re safe. If you get in their way, even the nicest pets can turn on you.
• Be patient with your pets after a quake. They get stressed just like people and need time to readjust. They may disappear for some time, but they generally show up again when things have calmed down.
• If you have outdoor pets, you should keep them indoors until the aftershocks have subsided and they have calmed down.
• If you must evacuate your home, leave your pet secured in a safe place. Pets will not be allowed at shelters. Be sure to leave plenty of clean water and food. If possible, visit pet daily until you can return home.

Tips for Preparing Children

Infants and Toddlers

For infants and toddlers, special emphasis should be placed on making their environment as safe as possible.

• Cribs should be placed away from windows and tall, unsecured bookcases and shelves that could slide or topple.
• A minimum of a 72-hour supply of extra water, formula, bottles, food, juices, clothing, disposable diapers, baby wipes and prescribed medications should be stored where it is most likely to be accessible after an earthquake. Also keep an extra diaper bag with these items in your car.
• Store strollers, wagons, blankets and cribs with appropriate wheels to evacuate infants, if necessary.
• Install bumper pads in cribs or bassinets to protect babies during the shaking.
• Install latches on all cupboards (not just those young children can reach) so that nothing can fall on your baby during a quake.

Preschool and School-age Children

By age three or so, children can understand what an earthquake is and how to get ready for one. Take the time to explain what causes earthquakes in terms they'll understand. Include your children in family discussions and planning for earthquake safety. Conduct drills and review safety procedures every six months.

• Show children the safest places to be in each room when an earthquake hits. Also show them all possible exits from each room.
• Use sturdy tables to teach children to Duck, Cover & Hold.
• Teach children what to do wherever they are during an earthquake (at school, in a tall building, outdoors).
• Make sure children's emergency cards at school are up-to-date.
• Although children should not turn off any utility valves, it's important that they know what gas smells like. Advise children to tell an adult if they smell gas after an earthquake.

Tips for the Elderly

Before an Earthquake

• Eliminate hazards. Make it as easy as possible to quickly get under a sturdy table or desk for protection.
• Anchor special equipment such as telephones and life support systems. Fasten tanks of gas, such as oxygen, to the wall.
• Keep a list of medications, allergies, special equipment, names and numbers of doctors, pharmacists and family members. Make sure you have this list with you at all times.
• Keep an extra pair of eyeglasses and medication with emergency supplies.
• Keep walking aids near you at all times. Have extra walking aids in different rooms of the house.
• Put a security light in each room. These lights plug into any outlet and light up automatically if there is a loss of electricity. They continue operating automatically for four to six hours, and they can be turned off by hand in an emergency.
• Make sure you have a whistle to signal for help.
• Keep extra batteries for hearing aids with your emergency supplies. Remember to replace them annually.
• Keep extra emergency supplies at your bedside.
• Find two people you trust who will check on you after an earthquake. Tell them your special needs. Show them how to operate any equipment you use. Show them where your emergency supplies are kept. Give them a spare key.

During and After an Earthquake

• If you are in bed or sitting down, do not getup.
• If you are standing, duck and cover or sit down. You could be thrown to the floor if you are standing.
• Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least three days.
• Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. For your own safety, cooperate fully with public safety officials and instructions.
• Prepare for aftershocks.
• If you evacuate, leave a message at your home telling family members and others where you can be found.

Tips for the Physically Challenged

Before an Earthquake

• Set up your home, apartment or workplace so that you can quickly get under a sturdy desk, table or other safe place for protection. Identify doorways that do not have doors in which you can take cover.
• Maintain a list of medications, allergies, special equipment, names and numbers of doctors, pharmacists and family members with you at all times.
• Keep extra medication with your emergency supplies.
• Keep extra emergency supplies at your bedside and by your wheelchair.
• Have walking aids near you at all times.
• Place extra walking aids in different rooms of the house.
• Put a security light in each room. These lights plug into any outlet and light up automatically if there is a loss of electricity. They continue operating automatically for four to six hours, and they can be turned off by hand in an emergency.
• Have a whistle near you to signal for help.
• Find two people you trust who will check on you after an earthquake. Tell them your special needs. Show them how to operate any equipment you use. Show them where your emergency supplies are kept. Give them a spare key.

During an Earthquake

• If you are in bed or out of a wheelchair, stay where you are and cover your head and neck.
• If you are in a wheelchair, stay in it and go into a doorway that doesn't have a door. Cover your head and neck with your hands.
• Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least three days.
• Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. For your own safety, cooperate fully with public safety officials and instructions.
• Prepare for aftershocks.
• If you evacuate your home, leave a message at your home telling family members and others where you can be found.

Thrive With Hemsath: Cheese Blend - the quest for the perfect Mac and Cheese

 















Thrive With Hemsath: Cheese Blend - the quest for the perfect Mac and Cheese

I have had a ton of questions about the Cheese Blend and how to use it.  I must admit, I tried it once and ended up with the "Hot Orange Water" Whitney shows in one of her trial batches.  The blue link above shows four different recipes and the best out of the four.  Give it up for Whitney for taking the time to search out the perfect Mac and Cheese.


Thrive Cheese Blend Video You Tube
You may also click on the link above to view a video from Shelf Reliance test kitchen showing you how to prepare the Cheese Blend Powder.

Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Makes 10 Cookies

Adapted from Skinny Girl Daily – see link below.

https://www.skinnygirldaily.com/blog/banana-oatmeal-chocolate-chip-cookies-serves-10-cookies

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups oat flour

3/4 cup Shelf Reliance Quick Oats

 

1/2 teaspoon Shelf Reliance Baking Powder

1/2 teaspoon Shelf Reliance baking soda Baking Soda

1/2 teaspoon Shelf Reliance Salt

1/2 cup Shelf Reliance Sugar

1/3 cup chocolate chips

1 teaspoon canola oil

1/3 cup Milk or 1 tablespoon Non Instant powdered milk and 1/3 cup water added to wet ingredients

1/2 cup banana puree (1 medium-size banana) or 1/2 cup Freeze dried banana reconstituted in 1/2 cup water and pureed

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl, if using powdered milk add powder here. Combine all the wet ingredients in a separate bowl, if using powdered milk add the 1/3 cup water to reconstitute here. If using Freeze dried banana, place 1/2 cup bananas in blender with 1/2 cup cold water for 3-5 minutes and puree, add to wet ingredients. Mix the dry and wet ingredients together, until well combined. Use a medium-size ice cream scoop or a large spoon to scoop batter onto a cookie sheet covered with wax paper. Makes 10 Cookies. Bake for 12 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through cooking, or bake until the edges of the cookies are light brown.

Oat flour is expensive; try running Oat Groats through your grain mill to make oat flour. Oat flour makes a rich thickener for soups, gravies and stews. Adding 25% oat flour to wheat flour in bread mixes will prevent the bread going stale because of the anti-oxidant vitamin E in the oats. Oat flour can also be added to ice cream and other dairy products as a natural preservative.  Need an Oat Roller or Grain Mill  ? Click on the blue links to see our special pricing.

Low Fat Curried Chicken Salad

So Lowfat is not my idea of a good time, hence the way I look.

I finally decided to go back to weight watchers and try my hardest

at eating healthier. 

I love Shelf Reliance Chicken Salad due to it being quick, easy, and

tasty, so I thought I would try making a healthier version.

By the way, if you know anything about weight watchers, this comes out to

3 Points per serving on mixed greens. (Not too bad if I say so myself.)

ingredients

• 1 cup Freeze Dried Chicken
• 1/2 cup Freezed Dried Celery
• 1/4 cup Freezed Dried Onion
• 1/2 cup Fat Free Mayonnaise
• 1 Tablespoon Curry Powder
• 1 cup Grapes (I used green grapes in this version, I prefer red) quartered.  You can also try craisins, but they are more fattening.
• 1 small apple (I used Honey Crisp with skin on for color).
• 3 c. water

directions

Combine water, chicken, celery and onion in a sauce pan over high heat. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low and simmer until reconstituted (about 10 minutes.) Drain in a fine gauge colander and rinse with cold water to cool. Make sure to get all the excess water out. Combine the cooled chicken mixture with mayonnaise and any mix-ins (apples, pecans, almonds, grapes, craisins etc. the options are limitless) Season with curry powder, salt and pepper to taste. Serve on bread, bagels, crackers, mixed greens or pitas.