Are you truly Prepared for an Emergency?
Posted by msterilinn on Aug 19, 2008
Even though I do not spend a whole lot of time thinking about it, I am smart enough to take the time to prepare for an Emergency, should it strike in any form. Although one cannot imagine every scenario which may occur, we can gather some essential items in general to survive most situations. Of course, Food (in the form of MRE’s - Meals Ready to Eat - essentials for emergency preparedness) and a comprehensive kit of Medical Supplies would be at the top of the list, along with an Emergency Radio to keep us updated and informed in case of a power outage, or if we are forced to leave our homes. There are some pretty cool solar powered radios available for a decent price, and it is totally worth it.
Now, there are different levels of Emergencies. Having several packs ready to go at all times, one for each member of the family, is a great idea. We can keep these packs in a place which is easy to access on the go, in case we need to leave in a hurry, making certain everyone knows where their pack is. Practice Emergency routines once in a while to keep this in mind without creating a panic… we do not need to obsess. Keeping emergency supplies in our vehicles is also a great idea, just in case we are not home when danger strikes.
Another thing to keep in mind is our water supplies. Just in case our water becomes tainted, or we are uncertain of the purity, we should educate ourselves with Water Storage information and gather Water Filters, Purifiers and Storage Containers.
I would like to follow up on this subject in the near future with a list of supplies which may be helpful for those uncertain of what to gather. Sometimes it is not possible to gather all we may need, either because of our location or financial situation, yet common sense will show us what we need most so we can at least stand a chance of surviving if the unthinkable happens. Remember, when the Hurricane, Tornado, Earthquake or Disaster warnings go out (or hit), the time to prepare is over… like trying to buy fire insurance when the house is on fire.
I am lucky in that we have an extended family and friends who have thought about this occurance for quite some time now, and we are prepared to gather in a place of safety if at all possible. Educating ourselves in survival techniques is very important, as one never knows when an Emergency situation may occur, and it is better to be prepared so we are less likely to panic, and supplies may not be readily available. As always, I am most happy to hear ideas and suggestions which may be helpful in an Emergency situation.
Oregon Salmon threatened by Global Warming
Posted by msterilinn on Aug 14, 2008
One of the wonderful aspects of living in Oregon, is the bountiful wildlife, including the variety of fish. Salmon, steelhead and trout are abundant because of the devoted stewardship throughout this lovely green state. We live close to several rivers and fishing hot spots, so encountering happy fishermen is almost a daily occurance during fishing season. On a lucky day we have seen some healthy specimens provide a bounty of delicious meals for those skilled enough to land one of these beauties.
The thought of losing this precious resource is too sad to contemplate. Yet the danger is only too real. Because of climate change, some streams and rivers in Oregon’s Columbia and Snake River Basin may soon become too warm for salmon, steelhead and trout species to survive. This will create a major imbalance in nature with catastrophic results. Shouldn’t Oregon’s governor be doing more to help salmon and other species that are threatened by global warming?
It appears that the governors of Oregon, Washington, Montana, California, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah and Premiers across the West (who are formal partners of the Western Climate Initiative) have released a draft plan to reduce global warming pollution and address the impacts of climate change. Although the draft plan presents an ambitious strategy to reduce the causes of climate change, it truly falls short in protecting wildlife in Oregon that is already being affected by global warming and climate change. Climate change is one of the greatest threats to imperiled wildlife in Oregon. Please take just a few moments out of your day right now to help provide a voice for animals that have none.
Protect your States Wildlife from Global Warming by visiting Defenders today!
~ In Hawaii, Kilauea raises her voice in a new eruption ~
Posted by msterilinn on Jul 26, 2007
There’s a new eruption site on Kilauea volcano. It’s the first time lava is flowing east of Puuoo in 15 years. There’s been quite a bit of activity on Kilauea for the past five weeks…earthquake swarms, Puuoo crater collapsed, and now a new eruption site.It’s known as the most world’s most active volcano. Experts say it’s the most activity and changes they’ve seen in a few years. Most of Kilauea’s Eruptions happen at the summit or within the two rift zones. Now there’s a new eruption site, just east of Puuoo crater. The lava is oozing along one mile fissures. It’s the first time this area has had any activity in 15 years.
The last time there were eruptions at this site in 1990. The lava ended up flowing downhill to Kalapana and destroyed the entire community. Experts monitoring the new lava outbreak don’t believe this flow will take that same path. Scientists say if Kilauea is trying to tell them something, they’re listening carefully.
When Mother Earth decides to rumble and grumble, we are humbly reminded how pitifully small we are in the scheme of things. At this moment I wish to send out heartfelt prayers for the safety and well being of folks within the vicinity of this Volcano as she vents…
Simplified map of Kilauea Volcano, Hawai`i
