12 October 2006

Contingency Plans

I read a blog this morning Taboo Thursday: In Case of Emergency where the author spoke of the helicopter crash in NYC yesterday. The author made considerable sense about how we do not think of a back up plan until the disaster is already in effect.

Looking back over the years, I can recall each occasion that made me realize I needed a contingency plan. It started in college when I dated a guy who lived two hours away. I would take trips to see him banking on the idea that I’d drive back that same night and more than once I’d spend the night and would be in need of clothes etc. So, I began keeping an overnight bag in my car; the idea carried to date. During the time of seeing said bf, he moved to be closer to me, but we would still travel north. We were heading to Brooklyn during inclement weather and had to pull over to a rest area. Fortunately for us, we’d packed blankets and pillows for our stay, which came in handy for our impromptu stop. I now keep blankets/pillows in my (now bigger) ride. After suffering out the storm in 96 which shut the state down and a few other adverse weather conditions, I began keeping certain foods in the house that didn’t require much preparation if the power went out. Yes, I still do this to date. Now, that I’m even more grown up, I’ve taken it a step further and keep filled propane tanks outside, maintain a healthy supply of candles, flashlights, batteries, wet naps/wipes, etc., on hand in addition to food items that can be easily prepared or cooked outside using the propane tank with a burner attached.

Though to some it may seem excessive that I go to such lengths in both in my car and home, it’s not. It’s using common sense and knowing what can happen that keeps me prepared. I don’t want to be that person running to the store at the last minute to get items needed for adverse weather or power conditions. I DO NOT purchase a lot of dairy products or other perishables as I see many people do because they will not keep. Well, unless is mad cold and you can store them outside for a while. (lol)

For those of you who live in areas prone to adverse weather, power outages, or if you travel a lot, I suggest you start a disaster preparedness kit for your house and car. Even if you don’t live in the aforementioned, it’s still a good thing to have a contingency plan. Don’t let a disaster or adverse condition remind you.

Oh, one last thing, try to keep some cash on hand too. If the power goes out, you may not be able to use an ATM. Stash some cash in your car or in a jar at home.

Just a heads up from my lil corner of the world.

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hey Blu. It's funny how I come back after being away for a while and your post is exactly what has kept me away. I went through some family drama and of course there was NO contingency plan. We spent a lot of time figuring things out and then found out there was something in place, even though it wasn't enough to take care of everything. I see I have a lot of catching up to do. I may not get to everything, but I'll give it a shot.

SLUMP FACADE said...

What do you recommend is a good contingency plan for dealing with heartbreak? I've been someone's emergency dick in a glass, though it was cool it wasn't too emotionally satifying...

Blu Jewel said...

Slump - You caught me off guard with that one...lemme think about it and get back to you.

Suzan Abrams, email: suzanabrams@live.co.uk said...

How wise you are Blu, and so kind to share this with us.
Enjoyed your heartfelt post tremendously.

love

Mahogany Misfit said...

This is excellent advice but unfortunately I live in the car theft capital in the whole United States and I would be very hesitant to stash money in my ride. I'd be mad enough if the car got stolen but my money AND my car!!!

Oh Hellllll NO!

LMAO!

layne bowden said...

You know what? I really need to stash some cash around here somewhere! I NEVER have it readily available thanks to that damn checkcard! Good lookin' out, Momma! I'm going to be sure to follow-up on this one!

Peace! Always!

Anonymous said...

I agree. I used to be on point mostly from friends nagging me (for my own good) or just setting me up because I kept forgetting. With winter approaching, I need to get back on point. Any ideas for an emergency bag while riding my motorcycle...LOL (j/k).

I missed you JC.

T.a.c.D said...

Totally feel you on this one...but I am like Mistress living in PG County I can't stash the cash, but all the othe suggestions are right on point...and I have/do myself!

Organized Noise said...

Do I really need to comment on this since it was my post that inspired it?

"the author" . . . LOL

Blu Jewel said...

t.c - I appreciate the stop by and I'm glad my suggestions can be of use even if my post was inspired by Organized Noise "the author". Thanks for the inspiration man.