The Wrath of Phil
Feb 18th, 2010 by Kathy
As we anxiously await the arrival of spring, it’s being reported that all of the lower 48 states have snow at this time. So, it looks like Punxsutawney Phil was dead serious. In fact, he seems to be downright angry, for some reason. Well, I don’t know what happened to displease him, but it appears that there’s nothing more dangerous than a vengeful groundhog.
One thing for sure is that we all want to put this behind us, and welcome the warmer days, when we can put out our patio furniture, picnic tables, porch swings, hammocks, gliders, and outdoor sofas, and get back to some refreshing outdoor living.
However, the recent, crippling winter storms, which caused week-long power outages, impassable roads that took days to clear, and nearly-empty store shelves, have taught us that it is possible to have trouble surviving in our own homes. That’s a lesson that is worth remembering, because, even without snow, at any time of the year, many things can happen, from natural disasters that affect millions, to individual emergencies that occur in our homes.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to have an emergency survival kit, which will include many things that you already have around the house; you may just have to stock up on some items. Although, in most cases, you’ll probably just have to get through a power outage, you should still be prepared for the worst.
Naturally, the first thing you’ll want is a supply of batteries and flashlights. Yes, you can use candles, but they pose a real danger, especially when people light a bunch of them in every room, to try to keep their entire houses bright. Forget about that. After all, you’re supposed to turn out the lights in empty rooms anyway, so it’s better to use only flashlights, or battery-powered lanterns, particularly with the powerful, long-lasting, LED flashlights that are available today. Having a portable generator can be a blessing; but it has its own, long list of hazards and safety precautions, so make sure that you know how to use it properly.
You’ll also need a source of heat. Even if you’re not in danger of freezing, you’ll still want to be comfortable, so, for starters, dress in warm layers, and always have plenty of extra blankets on hand. If you have a fireplace, that’s great, but make sure that it’s clean and safe to use. In fact, that should be a part of your yearly routine maintenance. Kerosene and propane space heaters are also excellent for providing heat, but they, too, require many safety measures, and must be clean, fully operational, and constantly attended.
You should also have a supply of non-perishable foods, such as energy bars and canned goods (make sure you have a manual can opener) on hand. Try to get things that can be eaten – and enjoyed – cold.
I know, right now, in many areas, it seems like everything’s cold, and impossible to enjoy; but spring will come soon, and winter will be a distant memory. You know, I’ve heard that they may be making a movie about this month of monstrous storms, which they’ll call “Snowmageddon.” Hmm. I prefer, “The Wrath of Phil.”
Yours Outdoors,
Kathy
Don't worry, you'll be using fire places for marshmellows instead of warmth quite soon!
