Hello Concealed Coalition family! I’m Austin Davis, your National Director of Training. This month’s webinar topic is hurricane preparedness and safety, a subject close to my heart. Before you dismiss this thinking you’re safe in Kansas, remember that hurricane preparation skills apply to many scenarios, including wildfires, grid shutdowns, and civil unrest.
Living on the Texas Gulf Coast, I’ve faced hurricanes firsthand. In 2008, Hurricane Ike left me without power for 16 days. In 2017, Hurricane Harvey had me surrounded by floodwaters for nearly three days. These experiences taught me valuable lessons in preparation and survival.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Hurricane preparedness is an annual ritual for my wife and me. For us it’s like changing smoke detector batteries during daylight savings – a routine check that tells us we’re good to go. We review and update our emergency supplies, ensuring nothing has expired and everything is in working order. This practice isn’t just for hurricanes but for any potential crisis.
Hurricane Preparedness Plan Duration
When putting together your hurricane preparedness kit, consider how long you’ll need to be self-sufficient. While some preppers stockpile years of supplies, for most, 72 hours to a week of provisions is adequate. Think about essentials like food, water, and medical supplies for that duration.
Guns and Gadgets
As part of the Concealed Coalition family, let’s start with firearms. In a crisis, staying low-key is crucial. While long guns have their place, they can attract unwanted attention and pose storage challenges. Your daily carry gun is often more practical. A small revolver, or “snubby,” can be particularly useful. It’s easy to handle and less likely to cause accidents in stressful situations.
Besides firearms, consider non-lethal defense tools. A good flashlight, like the Cloud Defensive, is invaluable for low-light conditions. A headlamp keeps your hands free while illuminating your surroundings. Pepper spray is also essential, providing a non-lethal way to handle aggressive individuals.
Packing for an Evacuation
If you decide to evacuate, preparation is key. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and fueled. Extra gas cans can extend your range and assist others. A car starter pack is useful for jump-starting vehicles and charging devices. Carry a tire inflator and a tire patch kit to maintain mobility.
When packing, think of it as a camping trip. Have your camping gear, non-perishable food, and essential items ready in totes. Family service radios help maintain communication between vehicles. Decide when to leave to avoid traffic and ensure you have enough fuel and supplies.
Hunkering Down
If you choose to stay, water is your most critical resource. A water storage solution like a bathtub bag can provide 100 gallons of clean water. Stockpile non-perishable food and have a manual can opener handy. Medications, eyeglasses, and hygiene items are also essential.
For refrigeration, fill zip-top bags with water and freeze them to create thermal mass. This helps keep food cold during power outages. A portable radio can keep you informed about weather updates and emergency broadcasts.
Safety and Comfort
In a crisis, maintaining security and comfort is vital. Have enough flashlights and batteries. Secure your firearms and follow safe storage practices. Ensure everyone in the household knows where to find important items and how to use emergency equipment.
Consider what entertainment items you can have with you to help reduce stress. If you have pets, prepare carriers, food, and water for them. Label essential contact information and pack your children’s favorite toys to keep them calm.
Final Thoughts on Hurricane Preparedness
Proper planning prevents poor performance. Whether facing a hurricane, wildfire, or civil unrest, being prepared ensures you and your family remain safe. Remember, as a member of the Concealed Coalition, you are your first responder. Equip yourself not only with firearms but with a comprehensive plan that covers all aspects of survival.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and be a guardian always, but a warrior when needed.
