38% Prepared

HERE'S the Replay on Ep26! Our 9-1-1 system is always evolving, with the next-generation 9-1-1 bringing new capabilities. However, the basics will always be essential, from knowing when to call (and when not to call) 911 to teaching children about 911. This episode provides vital information for everyone, regardless of your familiarity with emergency services.
Follow the steps in our show notes and take a few minutes to set up your phone's emergency information.
Remember, thinking is always the first step of preparedness. So stay safe, keep listening, and keep thinking.

#911gov #fccgov #hawaiinewsnow #smart911 #38pctprepared #38precentprepared #ameridisability

Welcome back to our #35 episode! In this episode, Leigh and Angie explore the often-overlooked aspects of homeowners insurance and disaster preparedness. Learn what your policy might be missing and how to ensure you're properly covered when disaster strikes.

Expert Tip: While FEMA and other assistance may be available after major disasters, always plan to rely on your insurance coverage first.

Remember: The time to understand your insurance coverage is before you need it, not after disaster strikes.

To learn about detailed Documentation, listen to Ep#22

#38pctprepared #38percentprepared #areyoucover #homeowner #homeownerpolicy #homeinsurance #onguard #reviewpolicy #staysafe #stayprepared

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Understanding Your Policy

What's Usually Not Covered

Common Insurance Problems

What Is Typically Covered

Key Takeaways

Credit: Insurance Information Institute

Credit: National Association of Insurance Commission

Happy New Year! 38% Prepared Listeners!

Join hosts Angie and Leigh as they kick off 2025 with a crucial episode about winter driving safety inspired by Leigh's recent harrowing experience during an early-season snowfall in Missouri.

Learn why 29 degrees Fahrenheit creates dangerous driving conditions and how to prepare for winter road emergencies.

Episode Highlights

Key Winter Driving Statistics

Winter Emergency Car Kit Essentials
Vehicle Basics

Emergency Supplies

Winter Driving Guidelines

Before Driving

On the Road

If Stranded

Remember: The best preparation is sometimes knowing when to stay put. No destination is worth risking your life.

Credits:

https://living.acg.aaa.com/auto/winter-car-survival-kit

https://www.mo.gov/winter-weather-safety/ 

https://www.modot.org/winter-driving-tips 

https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips

Basics That Matter: Under-Bed Preps & Utility Know-How

38% Prepared - Because every small step toward preparedness counts!

#38pctprepared #38percentprepared #Preparednesstips

#Emergencykit #SafetyEssentials #

In this final episode of 2024, hosts Leigh and Angie share practical tips for preparedness, focusing on two key areas:

Under-Bed Emergency Kit

·         Closed-toe shoes with sturdy soles

·         Work gloves for handling debris

·         Whistle and flashlight/light sticks for signaling

·         OK/HELP card (or paper and marker) with tape/adhesive bandages

·         Basic first aid kit

Pro tip: Check and update your under-bed emergency supplies a few times per year

Home Utility Safety Essentials

·         Know locations of main shut-off valves for gas, water, and electricity

·         Keep a wrench accessible for gas shut-off

·         Fill bathtubs and containers with water before anticipated storms

·         Evacuate immediately if gas smell or hissing is detected

As we wrap up 2024, this episode brings us back to the basics of emergency preparedness. While these may seem like simple steps, they represent actionable measures that anyone can take to be better prepared. As Angie reminds us, preparation starts with thinking but truly comes to life through action.

Remember: Shelter in place is not just staying inside—it's about creating a protective environment at home during specific types of emergencies.

#shelterinplace #emergencypreparedness #thinkingisthefirststep #38pctprepared #38percentprepared #saferoom #

In this episode of 38% Prepared, hosts Angie and Leigh discuss the crucial topic of sheltering in place as part of their "Prepared in a Year" series. They break down what this emergency measure really means and provide a step-by-step guide on how to effectively shelter in place.

Key points covered:

1. Definition of sheltering in place and when it's necessary

2. The importance of staying put rather than rushing to collect family members

3. Step-by-step instructions for sheltering in place:

·      Bringing everyone inside

·      Sealing the house

·      Shutting off air circulation systems

·      Creating a safe room

·      Monitoring official instructions

4. Tips for pre-planning and preparing a safe room in advance

5. How to improvise if caught unprepared

6. The typically short-term nature of sheltering-in-place orders

Memorable quotes:

"Sheltering in place means creating a sealed 'safe room' in your home to protect yourself from chemical, biological, or radiological threats that might be in the outside air." - Angie

"Pre-planning is key. Keep plastic sheeting and duct tape in your emergency supply kit. And remember, being 38% prepared is better than 0%!" - Angie

Action steps for listeners:

1. Choose and stock a safe room in your home

2. Pre-cut and label plastic sheeting for windows and vents

3. Sign up for local emergency alert systems

4. If living near industrial areas or major transport routes, take extra precautions

References: 

https://www.ready.gov/shelter#place https://mil.wa.gov/asset/5f171cc0a935f

Quote of the Episode: "Being 38% prepared today is better than what you were yesterday."

#readydotgov #redcross #38pctprepared #38percentprepared #poweroutage #naturaldisaster

In this solo episode, host Angie discusses how to prepare yourself and your family to be self-sufficient for up to two weeks following a disaster. Whether facing a power outage, natural disaster, or community-wide emergency, being "two weeks ready" can help you manage until professional help arrives.

Episode Highlights: Why Two Weeks?

After a disaster, your home may be livable but not 100% functional. Community services and infrastructure may be impacted. Professional help can take days or weeks to reach everyone. Insurance claims can take weeks or months to process.

Essential Preparations Light Sources

-Battery-operated flashlights and lanterns

-Solar-powered lights

-Avoid open flame sources

-Phone with backup power options Shelter Options

-Evaluate safety of staying in partially damaged home

-Consider alternatives: garage, camper, tent

-Have tarps and sleeping bags ready

-Know locations of public shelters Food and Water

-Store shelf-stable food items

- a non-electric cooking method (outdoor use only)

-Store extra water for drinking and sanitation

-Be cautious with refrigerated foods during power outages Sanitation

-Plan for non-functioning toilets (buckets, heavy-duty bags)

-Store extra toilet paper

-Pack cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items

-Include hand sanitizer and soap Additional Essential Items

-First aid supplies

-Medication backup supply

-Phone chargers and backup batteries

-Can opener

-Important documents

-Games and books for children

-Pet supplies and leashes

-Whistle or noise

-making device Key Tips

-Start small - build your kit gradually

-Rotate supplies every 6 months

-Update supplies as family needs change

-Even 2 days of preparation is better than none.

References: 

Ready.gov

Redcross.org

The holiday season is here, and home safety just got a lot more fun (and funny)! 🎄 Join Leigh and Angie in the latest episode of 38% Prepared as they take you on a Room-by-Room Home Hazard Hunt to make your home safer—all while keeping the whole family entertained.

Here’s Leigh and Angie's very own, crafted initially Home Hazard Hunt Checklist!

Kitchen:

[ ] Stove and oven clean and free of grease buildup

[ ] Fire extinguisher easily accessible

[ ] Knife block placed away from counter edge

[ ] Cooking area free of loose, dangling clothing

[ ] Pan lids readily available for potential grease fires

[ ] Cabinets free of combustibles

[ ] GFCI outlets installed near sink

[ ] Matches and lighters stored out of children's reach

[ ] Clear pathways, no trip hazards (cords, rugs)

[ ] Small appliances secured

Living Areas:

[ ] Rugs and carpets secured

[ ] Clear pathways through rooms

[ ] Bookshelves and heavy furniture secured to walls

[ ] Valuable/irreplaceable items properly secured or relocated

[ ] Blind and drape cords separated and secured

Bedrooms:

[ ] Working smoke detectors installed

[ ] Clear escape routes

[ ] Heavy furniture secured

[ ] Clear pathways to prevent tripping

Bathroom:

[ ] Non-slip mats in place

[ ] GFCI outlets installed

[ ] Cleaning supplies and medicines in child-proof cabinets

[ ] Glass bottles replaced with plastic when possible

General Electrical Safety:

[ ] No frayed cords

[ ] Outlets not overloaded

[ ] Correct wattage bulbs in all fixtures

[ ] No extension cords under rugs

[ ] Damaged cords, plugs, or sockets replaced

Chemical Safety:

[ ] Cleaning products stored out of reach

[ ] Medications stored securely

[ ] Dangerous substances in locked cabinets

Natural Disaster Preparedness:

[ ] Tall furniture bolted to wall studs (earthquake areas)

[ ] Water heater strapped to wall (earthquake areas)

[ ] Flexible connections for gas appliances (earthquake areas)

[ ] Heavy items stored on lower shelves

[ ] Positive latches on cabinets

[ ] Storm shutters installed (hurricane areas)

Outdoor Areas:

[ ] Walkways free of trip hazards

[ ] House number visible for emergency responders

[ ] Tree branches trimmed away from house

[ ] Dry vegetation and rubbish cleared (fire risk)

[ ] Proper outdoor lighting installed

Garage, Attic, and Shed:

[ ] Gasoline stored in approved containers, locked away

[ ] Flammable liquids in original containers, stored low and away from heat

[ ] No combustibles (e.g., newspapers) stored in attic

Final Safety Measures:

[ ] Smoke detectors on every level, tested monthly

[ ] Class ABC fire extinguisher accessible, additional ones considered

[ ] Chimney inspected annually

[ ] Water heater thermostat set to 120°F

[ ] Emergency kit prepared and accessible

[ ] Family emergency escape plan created and practiced

[ ] Out-of-state emergency contact established

Remember: When in doubt, secure it properly or consider relocating the item to a safer place!

Episode Highlights:

References:

https://cms2.revize.com/revize/renvillemn/PublicHealth/10%20RC%20%20Home%20Hazard%20Hunt%206-10.pdf 

https://www.co.polk.or.us/sites/default/files/fileattachments/emergency_management/page/2654/home_hazard_hunt.pdf 

Tune in to this eye-opening episode, and remember: thinking is the first step of preparedness. Stay curious, stay prepared, and you'll be ready for anything—even a tarantula invasion!

#38pctprepared #38percentprepared #emergencypreparedness

In this episode of 38 Percent Prepared, Leigh and Angie explore the world of tarantulas, uncovering the fascinating and perilous mating rituals of these eight-legged Romeos. Inspired by the "mate-gration" phenomenon in the southwestern U.S., where thousands of male tarantulas embark on a dangerous journey to find love, Leigh and Angie discuss everything from the intricacies of tarantula courtship to the deadly risks these spiders face along the way.

Episode Highlights:

·      “Mate-gration" Explained: Discover how male tarantulas travel miles in search of a mate during late summer and early fall, a period known as "mate-gration."

·      The Dance of Love: Learn about the unique courtship behaviors, including the tapping "drumming" dance performed by male tarantulas and the pheromones released by females.

·      Danger at Every Turn: From avoiding being eaten by their mates to dodging predators like the tarantula hawk wasp, male tarantulas have a tough time surviving their quest for love.

·      The Role of Tarantulas in the Ecosystem: Despite their dangerous love lives, tarantulas play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems.

·      Myths vs. Reality: Addressing common misconceptions, the hosts clarify that while tarantulas may look intimidating, they are generally harmless to humans.

Fun Facts:

·      Tarantulas use hydraulic pressure instead of muscles to move their legs.

·      Despite their fearsome reputation, tarantula bites are rarely dangerous to humans.

·      Female tarantulas can live up to 40 years and can lay hundreds of eggs in a single mating season.

Whether you're fascinated by nature or just curious about these misunderstood creatures, this episode will leave you with a newfound respect for tarantulas and their incredible journey for love.

Links and References:

1. Hordes of Tarantulas Are About to Swarm in The US, And Here's Why     https://www.sciencealert.com/hordes-of-tarantulas-are-about-to-swarm-in-the-us-and-heres-why

2. Beware of giant spiders: Thousands of tarantulas to emerge in 3 states for mating season https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/08/07/tarantula-mating-season-kansas-colorado-new-mexico/74704595007/

3. Male tarantulas on the prowl this fall season https://extension.okstate.edu/articles/2023/tarantulas_mating_season.html

4. When is tarantula mating season in Arizona? What to know about these huge hairy spiders   https://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/life/2024/08/09/what-time-do-tarantulas-come-out-in-arizona/73170983007/

5. Eaten, Crushed or Starved; Male Tarantulas Trade Their Life to Impregnate a Mate                                                     https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/eaten-crushed-or-starved-male-tarantulas-trade-their-life-to-impregnate-a-mate/

6. Tarantulas about to get busy … starting their mating journey in 3 states   https://www.wrbl.com/news/national/tarantulas-about-to-get-busy-starting-their-mating-journey-in-3-states/?nxsparam=5

7. Tarantulas   https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/facts/tarantulas

8. Tarantula

 https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/tarantula

9. Animal Fact Sheet: Tarantula   https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/tarantula.php

10. Thousands of tarantulas on the move in three US states amid massive search for a mate            https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-13781945/Thousands-male-tarantulas-three-states-mate-female.html 

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An Essential Earthquake Readiness In this episode of 38 Percent Prepared, hosts Angie and Leigh focus on earthquake preparedness. Tune in as they walk through essential safety tips, debunk common myths, and share personal experiences to help you be 38% more prepared for the unexpected.

Key Highlights:

• The Great ShakeOut: Learn about this global earthquake drill happening on October 17 at 10:17 a.m. local time, and why it's the perfect time to practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On."

• Personal Story: Leigh shares a gripping account of her parents' experience during a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of earthquake readiness.

• Debunking the "Triangle of Life": Angie and Leigh debunk the dangerous "Triangle of Life" myth, reinforcing the importance of the Drop, Cover, and Hold On method, which is recommended by FEMA, the American Red Cross, and the U.S. Geological Survey.

• Understanding Earthquakes: They break down the science behind earthquakes, how tectonic plates cause them, and why it's not just a West Coast problem. Earthquakes can happen anywhere, with 37 U.S. states having experienced significant quakes in the last 200 years.

• Earthquake Preparedness Tips: From securing heavy furniture to creating a 72-hour emergency kit, they offer actionable steps you can take now to prepare your family and home for an earthquake.

• Special Considerations: The episode covers safety tips for people using mobility aids, driving during an earthquake, and staying safe in high-rise buildings or coastal areas prone to tsunamis.

Credits/Rources: Useful Link:

• National Seismic Hazard Map: Check out the latest risk data from the U.S. Geological Survey to see the earthquake risk in your area.https://www.usgs.gov/news/national-news-release/new-usgs-map-shows-where-damaging-earthquakes-are-most-likely-occur-us 

• ShakeOut.org: For more information on the Great ShakeOut and to register for the event, visit [ShakeOut.org](https://www.shakeout.org).

https://news.tvbs.com.tw/life/2444454

https://www.seaonc.org/page/TriangleLifeStrategy

https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-08/fema_earthquakes_fema-p-530-earthquake-safety-at-home-march-2020.pdf

https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2024-03/ready.gov_earthquake_hazard-info-sheet.pdf

https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_b-526-eq-safety-checklist.pdf

In this episode of 38% Prepared, Leigh and Angie cover the essentials of fire safety, just in time for National Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12).

They discuss everything from the importance of smoke alarms to how to create a fire escape plan. Special emphasis is given to ensuring the safety of individuals with hearing impairments by introducing alternative smoke alarm systems like strobe lights and vibrating pads.

The episode also includes must-have knowledge on using a fire extinguisher, walking listeners through the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep), and the importance of selecting the right type of extinguisher for your home. Plus, Leigh shares a memorable story from a fire extinguisher training session gone awry!

To see the proper way to use a fire extinguisher in action, check out our Instagram page, where Angie has created a step-by-step demonstration video. Stay safe, and remember: “Thinking is the first step of preparedness!”

Stay connected with us on Instagram for fire safety tips and more preparedness content!

#38pctprepared #38percentprepared ##nfpa #fema #redcross #fireemergencies #fireextinguisher #passmethod #smokealarm #firepreventionweek2024 #firesafety

Reference:
https://www.nfpa.org/Events/Fire-Prevention-Week 

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prepare-for-fire/fire-extinguishers/ 

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/prevent-home-fire.html