Lorrie Streeter

Emergency Survival - Myth vs. Reality



Posted: Tuesday, February 10, 2009

by
Survival Street

It is a common misconception that when faced with an emergency situation, the adrenalin will take over and you will automatically know what to do. A nice thought, but very often not true.  Even though the adrenalin does start to flow, it is more likely to create panic.  It is much better to KNOW what to do in an emergency situation due to planning, preparation and practice. Some things that may seem obvious to us when clear headed may not occur if the situation is dire.

Tornado Truths –

Myth: Opening the windows will reduce air pressure.
Reality: There is no proof of this, but stopping to open windows may prevent getting to safety in time.
Myth: Stand under a door frame as protection against falling debris.
Reality: Go to the side or corner of a basement or an interior first-floor room opposite the tornado's direction of approach, or a storm cellar if available.

Myth: It is safer to be under an overpass.
Reality: The overpass causes a tunnel effect which increases wind. There is also the danger of it collapsing.

Myth: It is safe to come out during the eye of the storm.
Reality: Stay in your safe place during the eye of the storm as it can pass very quickly, catching you unawares.

Thunder Storm Thoughts -

Myth: During a thunder storm lie down on the ground to be as low to the ground as possible.
Reality: Look for the lowest lying area, crouch down and protect your head.
Myth: It is best to stay in your mobile home during a storm.
Reality: If it is a violent storm, seek shelter in a more secure building. If you cannot do so, go outside and lie down in a ditch or depression away from the mobile home and any vehicles.

Myth: Animals have a natural preservation instinct and can fend for themselves in an emergency.
Reality: Most pets have not really learned to fend for themselves.  Although it is important to save your family first, your pet's safety should be considered also. Most pets that get left behind do not survive.

Myth: Farm animals should be kept safely locked inside a building during a violent storm.
Reality: It may be better to leave livestock unsheltered so they are not stranded if the building collapses.

Earthquake Evidence -

Myth: During an earthquake get under a table or desk and hold onto a table/desk leg.
Reality: Since even heavy furniture can shift around during an earthquake, it is better to sit close to a wall away from windows, furniture or anything that could fall on you.
Myth: It is ok to leave your safe spot after the initial quake is over.
Reality: Stay in your spot until the shaking is completely over, including aftershocks.

Myth: Use the elevator to more quickly exit the building during an emergency.
Reality: Use the stairs. The elevator is likely to stop working trapping you inside.

Myth: If outside take shelter near a larger object for protection.
Reality: Stay away from buildings, trees, power lines, etc., Crouch down, cover your head and close your eyes.

Fire Facts –

Myth: Tea towels work well when handling hot pots and pans.
Reality: Always use oven mitts. Items such as tea towels are generally very flammable and can easily be dragged across a hot surface and catch fire.
Myth: If a pot catches on fire, quickly put it under running water.
Reality: Do not attempt to move the pot. Put a lid on it and turn off the stove.

Myth: If clothes catch fire immediately get under running water such as a shower.
Reality: STOP, DROP AND ROLL to smother the flames. Running to the nearest shower will cause the flames to spread.

Myth: If a fire starts in your home, immediately call the fire department.
Reality: Get out and stay out. Call the fire department from outside.

Hiking/Camping Hints –

Myth: Just stay where you are if you get lost and you will be found.
Reality: It is a good idea to stay put but it is better to take along a little protection in the form of a whistle whenever you hike. It will allow people to find you more easily and will help to convince wild animals to stay away.
Myth: In an organized camping area the wild life are used to humans and therefore friendly.
Reality: It is never safe to approach or feed wildlife. Use a flashlight at night to warn them away.

Myth: When encountering a wild animal leave as quickly as possible.
Reality: Stay calm and slowly move away; no sudden moves.

Myth: Bury garbage to prevent wild animals from invading your campsite.
Reality: Animals have a much better sense of smell than humans. Keep your campsite clean and put all garbage in animal-proof containers.
 
Myth: Keeping a fire going at night will discourage unwanted animals from entering your campsite.
Reality: Although this may be true, you are likely to burn your campsite to the ground. Extinguish all campfires (and lanterns) before going to sleep.

Myth: You are safe from too much sun during a cloudy day.
Reality: Bring sunscreen and sun glasses no matter what the weather. It is easy to get burned and strain your eyes even in cloudy weather.

Be Prepared – Before Disaster Strikes!

 

Lorrie Streeter, the lead partner in http:www.SurvivalStreet.com, a website offering high quality emergency survival kits, gear and information, has been involved in Emergency Preparednessfor over 25 years.  She originally became interested and involved in it through a program offered by her church.

Mrs. Streeter, desiring to raise her family in a safe environment, realized the need for emergency survival preparedness when she was first introduced to the idea. When health issues demanded she quit her job outside of her home, an internet business involving emergency preparedness seemed to be a perfect fit for her. So Survival Street was born.

Lorrie's motto:  Be Prepared - Before Disaster Strikes! - is one she continually strives to live by.  Through her website http://www.SurvivalStreet.com Lorrie continues to assist others in achieving this same goal.

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