The 72 Hour Decision

Once a disaster has happened, experts say you have 72 hours to make the decision to stay in place and ride it out, or to get out of dodge. [ Remember Katrina?] This decision should be made "BEFORE" the emergency. You need to have a plan. You need to test the plan. If this happens we do this. If that happens we that. Only you know the problems you could face in any given area, closed roads, no gas, riots, etc.

The important things are, you plan is workable, the family has it memorized, you have the means to execute it at a moments notice, and you have a pre-determined destination should the family get separated.

Each member should have a sports bag packed containing the needs of that member for the length of time you determine it may take to get to your final destination alone. You can find some ideas here;

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/prepare/bug-out.html

Note: #1. The closer you get to the 72hr. time line, the harder it will be to leave, no gas, no food, angry people, closed roads, etc....

Note: #2 A few cheap compass / hand held GPS unit, and some walkie talkies can be invaluable.