Drew.Gardonia
After my experience in Joplin, I realized I was a bit unprepared to assist in a first response, search and rescue type capacity.
Having only a pair of sturdy work boots in my trunk and a flashlight, I was limited in my abilities for fear of getting cut on nails (and having to get a tetanus shot as a result), or splintered wood which made sifting through the rubble in search of people difficult. Doesn't do a lot of good to go help, only to get injured and end up having to be rescued yourself.
So the next time I chase, I plan on having a tote in my trunk with some appropriate gear to be able to more readily respond to such a disaster and I'd like to know what items would make it more feasible to dig through the rubble.
So far here's my list.
Sturdy work boots (waterproof and steel toed if possible)
Thick heavy work gloves (to protect from rusty nails, broken glass, and splintered wood and twisted metal shrapnel)
good comfortable pair of work jeans/coveralls
heavy duty flashlight (extra batteries)
small backpack/fannypack with medical supplies (gauze, band-aids, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, disinfectant spray, small pair of scissors).
jacket/hoodie to deal with the rain/cold
I'd like to see what others have to add to this that maybe hasn't been thought about.
Having only a pair of sturdy work boots in my trunk and a flashlight, I was limited in my abilities for fear of getting cut on nails (and having to get a tetanus shot as a result), or splintered wood which made sifting through the rubble in search of people difficult. Doesn't do a lot of good to go help, only to get injured and end up having to be rescued yourself.
So the next time I chase, I plan on having a tote in my trunk with some appropriate gear to be able to more readily respond to such a disaster and I'd like to know what items would make it more feasible to dig through the rubble.
So far here's my list.
Sturdy work boots (waterproof and steel toed if possible)
Thick heavy work gloves (to protect from rusty nails, broken glass, and splintered wood and twisted metal shrapnel)
good comfortable pair of work jeans/coveralls
heavy duty flashlight (extra batteries)
small backpack/fannypack with medical supplies (gauze, band-aids, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, disinfectant spray, small pair of scissors).
jacket/hoodie to deal with the rain/cold
I'd like to see what others have to add to this that maybe hasn't been thought about.