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.