Dubious Distinction Demands Decisive Action
Camping Equipment Can Double as Emergency Supplies
Release Date: October 10, 2000
Release Number: R10-00-89
SEATTLE, Wash. -- If the new FEMA Hazards U.S., or HAZUS Report's placement of Alaska, Oregon and Washington in the top ten states most vulnerable to earthquake damage didn't prompt residents to review, replenish and update their disaster preparedness kits, consider last Friday's 7.3 temblor in Southeastern Japan. According to FEMA Regional Mitigation Division Director Carl Cook, now is a good time to dig out those Y2K emergency supplies, replenish water, food and pharmaceutical items, and generally review family emergency plans.
"We're constantly wrestling to define the middle ground between hysteria and complacency. We all live in an area prone to seismic disruption, seasonal flooding and winter storms. There's no need for panic, but there IS a need, and a very real one, to be prepared...just in case!" said Cook. "All households should stock emergency supplies for 72 hours of relative independence, until systems come back on line, or help arrives. And we're not talking about a major expense here. It may just be a matter of securing sleeping bags, lanterns, cook stoves, and first aid kits (basic camping gear) and stockpiling potable water, prescription medication and food in a safe, accessible location."
Recreational Equipment Incorporated (REI) SEATTLE, Wash. store coordinator Charles Madden agrees. "Many locals participate in some form of hiking or backpacking, and no daypack should ever leave home without the Ten Essentials: extra clothing, food, sun glasses, a knife, fire starter or matches, a first aid kit, flashlight, map, compass and water. Packing an extra for your car makes for an 'instant emergency kit,'" said Madden.
"There's more to disaster preparedness than freeze dried food and weather radios, but if you have the basic equipment to survive comfortably in the woods or mountains, you'll be in great shape in case of power outages or bridge failures. In fact, we're offering a special presentation this Wednesday, 11 October at 7:00 p.m. at our SEATTLE, Wash. Store, highlighting urban applications for supplies conventionally identified with hiking and camping, plus safety tips on what to do, what not to do, and where to go in the event of an emergency."
Attention Radio Stations:
Today's FEMA Radio Network news feed features REI SEATTLE, Wash. camping department coordinator Charles Madden discussing:
- Emergency preparedness in the Pacific NW.
- Key survival issues.
- The "72 hour rule."
- Where to go for more information.
To access/record quotes, dial 1-800-323-5248. Canadian stations can call 1-202-646-4365.
Last Modified: Monday, 17-Nov-2003 13:32:03