Doug Ritter Reminds Us that 'Survival' Isn't Everything
Although we're an aviation publication, it's important to
remind ourselves that we're human, too. Aside from moving our
families to safe ground, and getting the Baron to high ground, we
sometimes forget the small stuff, the really-important things. As a
public service to you readers, we're inserting this little
reminder, from 'survivor' supreme, Doug Ritter (who doesn't sell
photo albums, by the way).
I was speaking to a producer for FOX News just now and relating
to her some thoughts on hurricane preparations as Hurricane Isabel
bears down on the east coast of the United States. We all know the
usual drill about boarding up and stockpiling food and water and
batteries and, better, getting the hell out of Dodge, but there is
one thing that so very many folks tragically forget in preparing
for a natural disaster.
Getting beyond the death and general destruction, their in
nothing so tragic as watching a survivor of a hurricane or similar
natural disaster pick through their ruined belongings and then
suddenly break down completely upon discovering the scrapbook with
years of memories, a sodden mess or burned crisp, totally
destroyed. Or, the family bible, or great granddad's naturalization
papers, or...well you get the idea.
You can replace the furniture and the house. You can replace a
lot of things, but family heirlooms and personal mementos are
irreplaceable. And, in the rush to get ready or escape, these are
exactly the things that are most often forgotten. Then it is too
late. Don't forget what you can never replace. Take it with you if
you leave, protect it as best you can if you're going to stay.
For those not already getting ready for this hurricane, use this
as a reminder to be prepared for the next natural disaster that
comes your way. Inventory those irreplaceable items you own
and make a list. Then, if you ever need to evacuate or get
ready in a hurry, grab the list and you'll not forget anything
important. If evacuation is a possibility, assemble the items ahead
of time so they are ready to go. Better to waste a little time and
then have to return them as opposed to being too rushed to grab
them.
Also, just a reminder to also take with you all your current
important papers such as insurance polices and the like. You may be
needing that information and having it all at hand will be a big
help.
Be smart. Be Prepared. Be Equipped To Survive.
--Doug Ritter, Editor, Equipped To Survive