EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS

Many of you may know, this last Sunday, Greg LeBlanc (our Ward Emergency Preparedness Specialist) talked with the Priesthood about an impending earthquake.  The short version is, he felt prompted--many times--to prepare our ward for an earthquake...a big one.

He added the caveat that he hopes he is wrong.  Personally, I think he is right.

Fast forward to Wednesday morning, when there was a 3.5 magnitude earthquake just off of Coronado Island.  And to top it off, yesterday I discovered a report that a study by the Geological Society of America found what is called the Durmid ladder structure at the southern end of the San Andreas fault.  Basically, movement along this area could trigger a large earthquake (possibly magnitude 8.0), devastating Southern California.

Now, even before I learned about the 'new' geological evidence, I trusted that Brother LeBlanc's warning needs some notice.  His calling is to help our ward prepare for an emergency, and he is entitled to revelation on this exact subject.

Now, no need to panic and go crazy!  Heavenly Father has promised us that, "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear" (D&C 38:30).  So, let's get prepared!

Back in January, I challenged all of us to put together a 3-minute kit to keep under your bed, tied to a bedpost.  I still think it is a good idea.

Brother LeBlanc gave a handout to the Brothers on Sunday, but I feel like his information is very pertinent and I would like to share it here as well.

72 HOUR KITS!

I always thought of 72 hour kits as an item used for when everything else fails.  I envisioned me and my family hiking through the wilderness, rationing water and living on berries as a supplement.  Last December, my thinking changed.  During the Lilac Fire, I realized that a 72-hour kit with basic food, clothes, and supplies would have come in mighty handy.

So, my friends, I hope you are able to benefit from my need.  I am making 72 hour kits for my family and I hope you will join me!  I will have all the items ready, all you need to do is come to assemble your kits!

• When:  Wednesday, June 20, 2018
• Time:  7:00-9:00 p.m.
• Where:  Stake Center Overflow (451 W. Bobier Dr. Vista)
• Cost:  Approximately $45 each.

72-Hour Kits will include:

• Backpack & ID Tag
• Small First Aid Kit
• Personal Supplies
• ChapStick
• Hand Sanitizer 
• Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss
• Washcloth
• Toilet Paper
• Flashlight & Extra Batteries
• Whistle
• Small Notebook & Pen
• Shampoo, Conditioner, Soap
• Ear Plugs
• Plastic Bags
•  Water
• Food for 3 days (About 1500 calories per day, no food needs to be cooked)

I will be sending around a signup this Sunday, but if you know you would like to participate, you can email me at raelynstoddard@gmail.com.  Please include your name, phone number, and how many kits you would like to assemble.

The fine print:  

• If you would like to have kits, but know you will not be able to attend June 20, please arrange for someone (besides me) to assemble your kits for you that night. 
• I am unable to take out items or replace other items.   The kits come "as is."  You will need to purchase the entire kit, then change it to fit your needs.