Winter storms
Here in the Northwest we recently experienced an extreme weather event. One that is unusual for this neck of the woods. We received a large amount of heavy wet snow in a short period of time. This caused a myriad of issues with our roads, the power, and even our railways. The impact of the storm was mostly felt in the Southern Willamette Valley and the Cascades in the same region.
I know of several people caught unprepared. They were without
power and water for an extended period. Their house is on well water and the pump doesn’t run without power. Some friends and family were without needed medications with no way to get them due to road closures. Neighbors helping neighbors, as well as the young and strong coming to the aid of those less capable, was a normal day.
I myself was in Klamath Falls when the storm hit, 6 hours from home and on the wrong side of the Cascades. With multiple passes closed and another front moving in that threatened to close the remaining passes, I made my move.
Being Prepared
Don’t take this lightly, I travel in a 4-wheel drive vehicle with traction tires 
and chains. In my rig, I carry the tools, equipment, and supplies to survive for a week or longer without aid of any sort. I also have my General class Ham license and have a radio in my rig. I am prepared to take those kinds of risks. There were many times, in fact, most of the journey through the mountains, when there was not another vehicle in sight, I was mostly on my own.
Staying Vigilant
But, this is nothing new to me, I am constantly assessing my level of readiness and making improvements as needed. Seasonal adjustments are constantly being made to my equipment
and supplies. Always erring on the side of being overly safe. I have the training and equipment (in my vehicle) to hike out, in any weather, if necessary. Do not attempt anything that you have not been trained to do or do not have the proper equipment.
As is very common, most don’t consider the threat going without until it hits them in the face, because of this we have a run on the store for supplies. Be responsible for your safety and security. Plan for the inevitable disaster. Get your supplies, equipment, and training before a disaster strikes. One second after the disaster strikes is too late.
Staying Calm
The most important consideration aside from physical training and equipment is mental preparation. You must spend the time and energy to train your mind. It is imperative that we are able to remain calm in the face of adversity. Remember the rule of threes, you will not survive for more than 3 seconds without staying calm, I can not put enough stress on this. It is vital to your survival that you develop this skill. Without it all else is worthless.
As Always,
Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared
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