Your Plan is in High Demand

The Kennedy Family Blackout Crisis

Greg McLean Episode 9

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Hello All!

Have you ever encountered the likes of a major Blackout in your city because of a violent storm…I’m talking about the entire city? I’m talking about a Blackout in which you learned that it would be a lengthy period before Emergency Services personnel could respond to your area of the city. Did you have the necessary communications setup, equipment, supplies, first aid, food and water to easily sustain you and your family through the blackout? Were you and your family prepared to function as a complete unit or were you caught in a panic and trying to figure things out on the fly?

Listen to the story regarding the Kennedy Family and how they handled a major city-wide blackout crisis. To shed some light on the matter, the family lived in well-built, elevated location so worrying about major crises was not in the DNA of the community. Sure, the Kennedy's encountered bad weather from time to time but had never encountered a crisis involving a major city-wide blackout that resulted in a significant injury to a family member, leaving them with a possible life and death situation and without an adequate plan!  

Additional Information from the National Safety Council

Note 1: A blackout supplies list should include a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food, plus essentials like flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, and a first-aid kit. Don't forget items for hygiene, sanitation, and specific needs like medications, baby supplies, or pet food. Having a manual can opener, cash, and important documents is also recommended. 

Food and Water

  • One gallon of water per person per day
  • At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Manual can opener
  • Pet food and supplies, if needed 


Light and Power

  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (with NOAA weather alerts if possible)
  • Portable power bank or charger for cell phones 

Health and Safety

First-aid kit, Any necessary medications, Whistle to signal for help, Matches in a waterproof container, and Dust mask or cotton t-shirt to filter the air. 


Sanitation and Hygiene

  • Moist towelettes, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
  • Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
  • Soap and disinfectants
  • Paper plates and plastic utensils 


Documents and Communication

Copies of important documents like ID and insurance papers, Emergency contact list, and Cash. 


Other Essentials

Warm clothing and blankets, Paper map of your area, and Small portable generator (optional). 

    

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