Love these Links!

My link list has grown and I thought I would list a few of my true favorites for you to check out. In the future, I will post them as I find them so you can benefit too!

BLOGS
Safely Gathered In - Just the name of this blog gives me peaceful thoughts. Weekly posts about gathering items for 72 hour kits, How-to series, long and short term storage ideas.
Prepared LDS Family - Many practical and helpful tips & tricks to help you get prepared with food storage and emergency supplies. Good ideas for organizing too!

FOOD STORAGE
Everyday Food Storage - Delicious recipes USING YOUR FOOD STORAGE BASICS. How-to videos, master mix recipes and food photos that make your mouth water.  Helps you see that your really CAN cook with your flour, sugar, milk and MORE!

Food Storage Made Easy - A great place to start.  Their site features 10 baby steps to follow and offers free printable forms for you to use too!
Alpine Food Storage -Great quality, fair prices, some hard to source and unique bulk food products.  Read HERE to learn how to place an order (you don't need to wait for a group order!)

EMERGENCY PREP
bereadyutah.com - Links and check lists to help "ready your Utah family."  Also, read what Utah is doing to prepare our state for disaster, emergencies and pandemic outbreaks.
beprepared.com - Emergency Essentials is truly one stop shopping for almost any preparedness need.  There are also informative articles, recipes and resources to aid your preparation efforts.  Their food storage products are good quality but can often be found at a lower cost elsewhere (although they do offer great sales and group specials each month!) but EE is very competitive on other emergency preparedness products.

Check some of these out today!

A Fresh Start

A new year is coming, a new day to begin gathering your 3-month food supply as directed by the church.  Bishop A. has suggested that we begin even with getting a 1-month supply of food and then, as we are able, we can expand that plan to 2-3 months or more.

What kind of food should you buy for a 1 month supply?  Whatever you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  

What kind of food should you buy for a 3 month supply?  Whatever you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  

Beginning in January, I will be posting suggestions for building a meal plan and menu system using food storage foods (NOT read "wheat, rice and flour")  I would especially encourage you to attend the Relief Society Enrichment meeting  planned for January 21.  There just might be some good information to give you a jump start in creating a family food supply without breaking the budget (hint, hint.)

It will take a little thought, some time and organization too.  We are pulling together resources from the ward and the Internet to help figure it all out and get prepared for the unexpected.

Fill Your Life with Service

Be Thou An Example

Octboer 2001 General RS meeting
Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor, First Presidency

To the third part of our formula—namely, fill your life with service—I mention two separate examples. One features a teacher and the profound influence she has had in the lives of those whom she taught, while the other pertains to a missionary couple whose service helped to bring the light of the gospel to those who had lived in spiritual darkness.

Many years ago there was a young woman, Baur Dee Sheffield, who taught in Mutual. She had no children of her own, though she and her husband dearly longed for children. Her love was expressed through devotion to her special young women as each week she taught them eternal truths and lessons of life. Then came illness, followed by death. She was but 27.

Each year, on Memorial Day, her Mutual girls made a pilgrimage of prayer to the graveside of their teacher, always leaving flowers and a little card signed “To Baur Dee, from your girls.” First there were 10 girls who went, then five, then two, and eventually just one, who continues to visit each Memorial Day, always placing on the grave a bouquet of flowers and a card, inscribed as always, “To Baur Dee, from your girls.”

One year, nearly 25 years after Baur Dee’s death, the only one of “her girls” who continued to visit the grave realized she would be away on Memorial Day and decided to visit her teacher’s grave a few days early. She had gathered flowers, tied them with a ribbon, attached a card, and was putting on her jacket to leave when her doorbell rang. She opened the door and was greeted by one of her visiting teachers, Colleen Fuller, who said she had experienced difficulty getting together with her visiting teaching partner and so had decided to come alone and unannounced in an effort to complete her visiting teaching before the end of the month. As Colleen was invited in, she noticed the jacket and flowers and apologized for obviously interrupting whatever had been planned.

“Oh, no problem,” came the response. “I’m just on my way to the cemetery to put flowers on the grave of the woman who was my Mutual teacher, who had a profound influence on me and the other girls she taught. Originally about 10 of us visited her grave each year to express our love and thanks to her, but now I represent the group.”

Colleen asked, “Could your teacher’s name have been Baur Dee?”

“Why, yes,” came the answer. “How did you know?”

With a catch in her voice, Colleen said, “Baur Dee was my aunt—my mother’s sister. Every Memorial Day since she died, my family has found on her grave a bouquet of flowers and a card inscribed from Baur Dee’s girls. They’ve always wanted to know who these girls were so they could thank them for remembering Baur Dee. Now I can let them know.”

Said American author Thornton Wilder, “The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.”

The second example of lives filled with service, with which I shall conclude, is the missionary experience of Juliusz and Dorothy Fussek, who were called to fill an 18-month mission in Poland. Brother Fussek was born in Poland. He spoke the language. He loved the people. Sister Fussek was born in England and knew little of Poland and nothing of its people.

Trusting in the Lord, they embarked on their assignment. The living conditions were primitive, the work lonely, their task immense. A mission had not at that time been fully established in Poland. The assignment given the Fusseks was to prepare the way so that the mission could be expanded and gain permanence, that other missionaries be called to serve, people taught, converts baptized, branches established, and chapels erected.

Did Elder and Sister Fussek despair because of the enormity of their assignment? Not for a moment. They knew their calling was from God, they prayed for His divine help, and they devoted themselves wholeheartedly to their work. They remained in Poland not 18 months, but rather served for five years. All of the foregoing objectives were realized. Such came about following an earlier meeting where Elders Russell M. Nelson, Hans B. Ringger, and I, accompanied by Elder Fussek, met with Minister Adam Wopatka of the Polish government, and we heard him say, “Your church is welcome here. You may build your buildings, you may send your missionaries. You are welcome in Poland. This man,” pointing to Juliusz Fussek, “has served your church well, as has his wife. You can be grateful for their example and their work.”

Like the Fusseks, let us do what we should do in the work of the Lord. Then we can, with Juliusz and Dorothy Fussek, echo the Psalm: “My help cometh from the Lord.”

Dear sisters, you indeed are “examples of the believers.” May our Heavenly Father bless each of you, married or single, in your homes, in your families, in your very lives—that you may merit the glorious salutation of the Savior of the world: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” For this I pray, as I bless you, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Fill Your Heart with Love

Be Thou An Example

Octboer 2001 General RS meeting
Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor, First Presidency

To illustrate the second part of our formula—namely, fill your heart with love—I turn to a beautiful account recorded in the book of Acts which tells of a disciple named Tabitha, or Dorcas, who lived at Joppa. She was described as being a woman “full of good works and almsdeeds.”

“It came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.

“And forasmuch as … the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

“Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which [Tabitha] made, while she was with them.

“But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

“And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

“And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.” 7

To me the scriptural reference to Tabitha, which describes her as a woman “full of good works and almsdeeds,” defines some of the fundamental responsibilities of Relief Society; namely, the relief of suffering, the caring for the poor, and all which that implies. Women of Relief Society, you truly are angels of mercy. This is demonstrated on a grand scale through the humanitarian outreach to the cold, the hungry, and to suffering wherever it is found. Your labors are also very much in evidence in our wards and in our stakes and missions. Every bishop in the Church could testify of this truth.

I remember when, as a young deacon, I would cover a portion of the ward on fast Sunday morning, giving the small envelope to each family, waiting while a contribution was placed in the envelope and then returning it to the bishop. On one such occasion, an elderly member, Brother Wright, who lived alone, welcomed me at the door and, with aged hands, fumbled at the tie of the envelope and placed within it a small sum. His eyes fairly glistened as he made his contribution. He invited me to sit down and then told me of a time many years before when his cupboard had been empty of food. In his hunger, he had prayed to Heavenly Father for food to eat. Not long thereafter, he gazed out his front window and beheld someone approaching his door, pulling behind her a red-colored wagon. It was Sister Balmforth, the Relief Society president, who had pulled that wagon almost half a mile over the railroad tracks and to his door. The wagon overflowed with food collected from the sisters of the ward Relief Society, with which Sister Balmforth filled the empty shelves in Brother Wright’s kitchen. He described her to me as “an angel sent from heaven.”

Sisters, you are the epitome of love. You brighten your homes, you lead with kindness your children; and while your husbands may be head of the home, you surely are the heart of the home. Together, through respect for each other and sharing of responsibilities, you make an unbeatable team.

To me it is significant that when children need care and loving attention, they turn to you—their mothers. Even the wayward son or neglectful daughter, when he or she recognizes the need to return to the embrace of family, almost inevitably comes to Mother, who has never given up on her child.

Mother’s love brings out the best in a child. You become the model for your children to follow.

The first word a child learns and utters is usually the dear expression “Mama.” To me it is significant that on the battlefields of war or in peace, frequently when death is about to overtake a son, his final word is usually “Mother.” Sisters, what a noble role is yours. I testify that your hearts are filled with love.

Fill Your Mind with Truth

Be Thou An Example

Octboer 2001 General RS meeting
Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor, First Presidency

Tonight we have been inspired by the stirring messages of the general presidency of the Relief Society of the Church. Their plea that all of us be steadfast and immovable is wise counsel, that we might meet the turbulence of our times and indeed be citadels of constancy midst a sea of change.

Let us review words of wisdom written by the Apostle Paul to his beloved Timothy:

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

“Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron.”

Then came Paul’s rallying call to Timothy—equally applicable to each one of us: “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”

With you dear sisters assembled here in the Conference Center and in congregations throughout the world, I share a three-part formula to serve as an unfailing guide to meet this challenge issued by the Apostle Paul:

1. Fill your mind with truth;

2. Fill your heart with love;

3. Fill your life with service.

First, fill your mind with truth. We do not find truth groveling through error. Truth is found by searching, studying, and living the revealed word of God. We adopt error when we mingle with error. We learn truth when we associate with truth.

The Savior of the world instructed, “Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” He added, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.”

He invites each of us, “Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me.”

One from pioneer times who exemplified the charge heard this evening to be steadfast and immovable and who filled her mind, heart, and soul with truth was Catherine Curtis Spencer. Her husband, Orson Spencer, was a sensitive, well-educated man. She had been reared in Boston and was cultured and refined. She had six children. Her delicate health declined from exposure and from the hardships encountered after leaving Nauvoo. Elder Spencer wrote to her parents and asked if she could return to live with them while he established a home for her in the West. Their reply: “Let her renounce her degrading faith, and she can come back—but never until she does.”

Sister Spencer would not renounce her faith. When her parents’ letter was read to her, she asked her husband to get his Bible and read to her from the book of Ruth as follows: “Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.”

Outside the storm raged, the wagon covers leaked, and friends held milk pans over Sister Spencer’s head to keep her dry. In these conditions and without a word of complaint, she closed her eyes for the last time.

Though we may not necessarily be called upon to forfeit our lives, let us remember that He hears our silent prayers. He who observes our unheralded acts will reward us openly when the need comes.

We live in turbulent times. Often the future is unknown; therefore, it behooves us to prepare for uncertainties. Statistics reveal that at some time, because of the illness or death of your husband or because of economic necessity, you may find yourself in the role of financial provider. I urge you to pursue your education and learn marketable skills so that, should an emergency arise, you are prepared to provide.

Your talents will expand as you study and learn. You will be able to better assist your children in their learning, and you will have peace of mind in knowing that you have prepared yourself for the eventualities that you may encounter in life.

Meeting Tonight!

Tonight is the night

To put together the Pandemic and Shelter in Place kits you've ordered.

REMEMBER TO BRING:

• Measurements of doors, windows, vents and other large openings in your safe room (you can't cut the plastic sheeting for your kit without these!)
• Money for payment (checks to Lisa)

Also, containers are NOT included in the cost of these kits. Containers will need to be specific to your space. Suggestions: plastic under bed tote, 5 gal. bucket with lid, other storage tote. You may bring your container or I will have grocery sacks available to take items home.

If you have only ordered the pandemic kit, it should only take a few minutes to gather your kit contents. If you have ordered the shelter in place kit, you will need to help cut the plastic sheeting and label it for your room openings. Plastic sheeting will be FREE thanks to a donation from Bro. Wayne. Give him a big THANK YOU! next time you see him please.

I will also have the almonds/agave nectar available if you cannot pick-up your order before this time. However, my first priority will be the pandemic/shelter in place kits so please try to come earlier in the day.

A Precious Promise

A Provident Plan - A Precious Promise
April 1986 General Conference
President Thomas S. Monson
Second Counselor in the First Presidency

On a cold winter’s night in 1951, there was a knock at my door. A German brother from Ogden, Utah, announced himself and said, “Are you Bishop Monson?” I answered in the affirmative. He began to weep and said, “My brother, his wife, and family are coming here from Germany. They are going to live in your ward. Will you come with us to see the apartment we have rented for them?”

On the way to the apartment, he told me he had not seen his brother for many years. Through the holocaust of World War II, his brother had been faithful to the Church, once serving as a branch president before the war took him to the Russian front.

I observed the apartment. It was cold and dreary. The paint was peeling, the wallpaper soiled, the cupboards empty. A forty-watt bulb, suspended from the living room ceiling, revealed a linoleum floor covering with a large hole in the center. I was heartsick. I thought, “What a dismal welcome for a family which has endured so much.”

My thoughts were interrupted by the brother’s statement, “It isn’t much, but it’s better than they have in Germany.” With that, the key to the apartment was left with me, along with the information that the family would arrive in Salt Lake City in three weeks—just two days before Christmas.

Sleep was slow in coming to me that night. The next morning was Sunday. In our ward welfare committee meeting, one of my counselors said, “Bishop, you look worried. Is something wrong?”

I recounted to those present my experience of the night before, revealing the details of the uninviting apartment. There were a few moments of silence. Then Brother Eardley, the group leader of the high priests, said, “Bishop, did you say that apartment was inadequately lighted and that the kitchen appliances were in need of replacement?” I answered in the affirmative. He continued, “I am an electrical contractor. Would you permit the high priests of this ward to rewire that apartment? I would also like to invite my suppliers to contribute a new stove and a new refrigerator. Do I have your permission?”

I answered with a glad “Certainly.”

Then Brother Balmforth, the seventies president, responded, “Bishop, as you know, I’m in the carpet business. I would like to invite my suppliers to contribute some carpet, and the seventies can easily lay it and eliminate that worn linoleum.”

Then Brother Bowden, the president of the elders quorum, spoke up. He was a painting contractor. He said, “I’ll furnish the paint. May the elders paint and wallpaper that apartment?”

Sister Miller, the Relief Society president, was next to speak. “We in the Relief Society cannot stand the thought of empty cupboards. May we fill them?”

The three weeks which followed are ever to be remembered. It seemed that the entire ward joined in the project. The days passed, and at the appointed time, the family arrived from Germany. Again at my door stood the brother from Ogden. With an emotion-filled voice, he introduced to me his brother, his brother’s wife, and their family. Then he asked, “Could we go visit the apartment?” As we walked up the staircase leading to the apartment, he repeated, “It isn’t much, but it’s more than they have had in Germany.” Little did he know what a transformation had taken place and that many who had participated were inside waiting for our arrival.

The door opened to reveal a newness of life. We were greeted by the aroma of freshly painted woodwork and newly papered walls. Gone was the forty-watt bulb, along with the worn linoleum it had illuminated. We stepped on carpet deep and beautiful. A walk to the kitchen presented to our view a new stove and new refrigerator. The cupboard doors were still open; however, they now revealed every shelf filled with food. As usual, the Relief Society had done its work.

In the living room, we began to sing Christmas hymns. We sang “Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright.” (Hymns, 1985, no. 204.) We sang in English; they sang in German. At the conclusion, the father, realizing that all of this was his, took me by the hand to express his thanks. His emotion was too great. He buried his head in my shoulder and repeated the words, “Mein Bruder, mein Bruder, mein Bruder.”

It was time to leave. As we walked down the stairs and out into the night air, snow was falling. Not a word was spoken. Finally, a young girl asked, “Bishop, I feel better than I have ever felt before. Can you tell me why?”

I responded with the words of the Master: “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Matt. 25:40.) Suddenly there came to mind the words from “O Little Town of Bethlehem”:

How silently, how silently,
The wondrous gift is giv’n!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of his heav’n.

No ear may hear his coming;
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him, still
The dear Christ enters in.
(Hymns, 1985, no. 208.)

Silently, wondrously, His gift had been given. Lives were blessed, needs were met, hearts were touched, and souls were saved. A provident plan had been followed. A precious promise had been fulfilled.

I testify that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ, that we are led by a prophet, that sacrifice does indeed bring forth the blessings of heaven. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

All-Season Driving

Preparing your vehicle for all season travel and knowing how to react if stranded or lost on the road are the keys to safe driving. Auto safety kits are the ideal safety tool for your travels all year round. Severe conditions can happen anywhere, in any season. Stay prepared with items that can keep you warm, provide light, and can signal for help. Here are some suggestions: (from The Earthquake Lady and Safety Kits Plus)

• Flashlight w/ extra batteries
• Flares or hazard reflectors
• First aid kit with manual
• Extra car keys
• Ice scraper
• Cell phone
• Protable radio with extra batteries
• Fire Extinguisher (A-B-C type)
• Jumper cables
• Jack, lug wrench, tire gauge
• Basic tools kit
• Small folding shovel
• Sand or kitty litter for traction (in winter)
• Duct tape and electrical tape
• Gloves, rags and paper towels
• Waterproof matches
• Emergency candles
• Emergency contact phone numbers
• Whistle
• Small mirror
• Paper, pen & pencil
• Cash (including small bills & coins)
• Drinking water
• Non-perishable energy foods
• Can opener
• Medications
• Toiletries
• Emergency blankets or sleeping bags
• Fleece clothing (hat, gloves, scarf)
• Hand warmer packets

ALWAYS maintain at least 1/2 tank of gas.
BUCKLE UP and DRIVE SAFELY!

This list seems long but most items would not occupy a lot of room and would give great peace of mind to your family or others you might share with. I have given out blankets and paper towels to accident victims, I'm always using my bottled water and have treated injuries from simple scrapes to bee stings with my first aid kit. That said, there are still a few items on this list I need to add to my van. Don't get stuck in the cold . . .

A Provident Plan

A Provident Plan - A Precious Promise
April 1986 General Conference
President Thomas S. Monson
Second Counselor in the First Presidency

(Speaking on the 50th anniversary of the Church Welfare system, created April 6 1936)

Fifty years have come and gone. Economic cycles have run their course. Societal changes have been numerous. The Church has expanded beyond the valleys of the mountains to the uttermost reaches of the earth. Membership is measured in millions. The word of God, provided on that historic day [April 6 1830,] is as an island of constancy in a sea of change.

Let us, for a moment, review the moorings, the underpinnings, even the foundation of the welfare program. Said the First Presidency in that year of announcement: “Our primary purpose was to set up, insofar as it might be possible, a system under which the curse of idleness would be done away with, the evils of a dole abolished, and independence, industry, thrift and self respect be once more established amongst our people. The aim of the Church is to help the people to help themselves.” (In Conference Report, Oct. 1936, p. 3.)

The holy scriptures leave no doubt concerning the responsibility to care for the poor, the needy, the downtrodden. The organization has been perfected, the duties defined, and the guidelines given. . . .

. . . Just a few days ago I visited with President Marion G. Romney, known throughout the Church for his ardent advocacy and knowledge of the welfare program. We spoke of the beautiful passage from Isaiah concerning the true fast:

“Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?” (Isa. 58:7.)

. . . President Romney wept as he spoke.

Appearing as a golden thread woven through the tapestry of the welfare program is the truth taught by the Apostle Paul: “The letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” (2 Cor. 3:6.)

President Ezra Taft Benson frequently counsels us: “Remember, Brethren, in this work it is the Spirit that counts.”

What has the Lord said about the spirit of this work? In a revelation given to the Prophet Joseph at Kirtland, Ohio, in June of 1831, He declared: “Remember in all things the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted, for he that doeth not these things, the same is not my disciple.” (D&C 52:40.)

In that marvelous message delivered by King Benjamin, as recorded in the Book of Mormon, we read: “For the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to day, that ye may walk guiltless before God—I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally.” (Mosiah 4:26.)

When we depart from the Lord’s way in caring for the poor, chaos comes. Said John Goodman, president of the National Center for Political Analysis, as reported this year in a Dallas, Texas, newspaper:

“The USA’s welfare system is a disaster. It is creating poverty, not destroying it. It subsidizes divorce, unwed teenage pregnancy, the abandonment of elderly parents by their children, and the wholesale dissolution of the family. The reason? We pay people to be poor. Private charities have always been better at providing relief where it is truly needed.”

In 1982 it was my privilege to serve as a member of President Ronald Reagan’s Task Force on Private Sector Initiatives. Meeting in the White House with prominent leaders assembled from throughout the nation, President Reagan paid tribute to the welfare program of the Church. He observed: “Elder Monson is here representing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If, during the period of the Great Depression, every church had come forth with a welfare program founded on correct principles as his church did, we would not be in the difficulty in which we find ourselves today.” President Reagan praised self-sufficiency; lauded our storehouse, production, and distribution system; and emphasized family members assisting one another. He urged that in our need we turn not to government but rather to ourselves.

On another occasion in the White House, I was asked to present to a gathering of America’s religious leaders an example of our welfare program in action. I could have chosen many illustrations, but selected as typical our response to the Teton Dam disaster in Idaho. The result was dramatic. As the First Presidency stated fifty years ago, “The eyes of the world are upon us.” While this is a most important consideration, let us particularly remember that the eyes of God are similarly focused. What might He observe?

Are we generous in the payment of our fast offerings? That we should be so was taught by President Spencer W. Kimball, who urged that “instead of the amount saved by our two or more meals of fasting, perhaps much, much more—ten times more [be given] when we are in a position to do it.” (Ensign, Nov. 1977, p. 79.)

Are we prepared for the emergencies of our lives? Are our skills perfected? Do we live providently? Do we have on hand our reserve supply? Are we obedient to the commandments of God? Are we responsive to the teachings of prophets? Are we prepared to give of our substance to the poor, the needy? Are we square with the Lord?

As we look back through fifty years and reflect on the development of the welfare program, as we look forward to the years ahead, let us remember the place of the priesthood, the role of the Relief Society, and the involvement of the individual. Help from heaven will be ours. . . .

Cover Your Cough

These principles of good hygiene should be in use at all times. In the case of Pandemic Flu, personal efforts will be increased and greater precautions will be taken.

Why should I cover my cough?

• Serious respiratory illnesses like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whooping cough and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are spread by:
  • Coughing or sneezing
  • Unclean hands
    
    
• These illnesses spread easily in crowded places where people are in close contact.

How do I stop the spread of germs if I am sick?

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze.
  Throw the used tissue in a waste basket.
  
  
• If you don't have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve.
  
  
• After coughing or sneezing, always clean your hands with soap & water or
  an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  
  
• Stay home when you are sick.
  
  
• Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items.
  

How can I stay healthy?

• Clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  
  
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.
  
  
• Get vaccinated! Influenza (flu) and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines can prevent some serious respiratory illnesses.
  

When you are at the clinic or hospital:

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and dispose of the used tissue in the waste basket.
  

• Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  
  
• You may also be asked to wear a mask to protect others.

Meeting Postponed

Because of a few different reasons, I have decided to re-schedule this Tuesday's meeting. Instead, we will assemble the Pandemic and Shelter-In-Place kits on Tuesday, December 2 @ 7:00 pm.

Remember to record and bring your measurements for cutting the plastic sheeting. Also, containers are not included in the cost of these kits and should be specific to your chosen room (underbed boxes or storage buckets are a couple of suggestions.) Shelter in Place kits should be stored inside your chosen safe room. Pandemic kits could be stored anywhere in your home but it may be convenient to be stored with the Shelter in Place kits.

Personal & Family Preparedness

This booklet was published 30 years ago and is still just as applicapble today as it was then, perhaps even more so today. I think we have all felt a higher sense of urgency in these past few years to prepare our homes and families. These statements re-confirm the need to do as we've been counseled to do.

(From LDS publication "Essentials of Home Production and Storage", 1978, p. 1)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints teaches independence, industry, thrift, and self-reliance.
"As you know, in the recent past we have placed considerable emphasis on personal and family preparedness. I hope that each member of the church is responding appropriately to this direction. I also hope that we are understanding and accentuating the positive and not the negative.
"I like the way the Relief Society teaches personal and family preparedness as 'provident living.' This implies the husbanding of our resources, the wise planning of financial matters, full provision for personal health, and adequate preparation for education and career development, giving appropriate attention to home production and storage as well as the development of emotional resiliency" (Spencer W. Kimball, "Welfare Services: The Gospel in Action," Ensign, Nov. 1977, p. 78)
Latter-Day Saints have been counseled to prepare to care for themselves and their families in time of need. Personal and Family preparedness should be a way of life, a way of provident living. Being provident involves being "wise, frugal, prudent, making provision for the future while attending to immediate needs" (Barbara B. Smith, "Teack LDS Women Self-Sufficiency," Ensign, May 1976, p. 188.) One are of personal and family prepareness is home production and storage.

Essentials of Home Production and Storage
"Home production and storage is a very necessary element of personal and family preparedness; however, it is not the only element, nor is it necessarily the most significant element. Some people have reacted to the theme of preparedness as if it were a doomsday matter. In reality, all six elements of personal and family preparedness are to be emphasized so that the Latter-day Saints may be better prepared to meet the ordinary, day-to-day requirements of sucessful living.
"Our emphasis on this subject is not grounds for crisis thinking or panic. Quite the contrary, personal and family preparedness should be a way of provident living, an orderly approach to using the resources, gifts and talents the Lord shares with us. So the first step is to teach our people to be self-reliant and independent through proper preparation for daily life: (Victor L. Brown, "Welfare Services Essentials: The Bishops Storehouse," Ensign, Nov 1976, pp. 112-12).

Standards for Home Production and Storage
Each person or family should produce as much as possible through gardening, seewing and making household items. Each person and family should learn techniques of home canning, freezing and drying foods, and where legally permitted, should store and save a one-year supply of food, clothing and if possible, fuel.

How to Buy a Space Heater

Five Tips for Buying a Heater (from amazon.com)
Choosing a space heater is a matter of sifting through a bewildering array of types, power ratings, and fuel sources. Let's break it down a little to make the process easier.

What are the different types of space heaters?

• Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation that directly warms the objects in front of the heaters (rather than the surrounding air). If you only need heat by a desk or in a small section of a room, a radiant heater is quiet and will use very little power.
• Forced-air heaters use a fan to blow air that has been warmed by metal or ceramic heating elements. A forced-air heater is appropriate for quickly heating up a small- to medium-sized room, but can be noisy.
• Convection heaters draw cold air from the floor; the air is warmed by heating coils and emitted from the top of the heater. A convection heater is appropriate for quickly heating up a small- to medium-sized room, but also can be noisy.
• Radiators work by heating oil enclosed in a reservoir, gradually heating the surrounding air. If heating speed isn't an issue, you might want to opt for a radiator. These are extremely quiet and effective--perfect for bedrooms.

Should I buy an electric or a combustion model?
If you want a heater that will be available in emergencies, or that can heat areas larger than a single room, choose a "combustion" model--one that is powered by a gas or fuel like propane, kerosene, natural gas, or diesel. Which fuel type you choose depends largely on convenience and local availability. For example, diesel would be appropriate for a heater you take with you on long car trips.

How powerful a heater do I need?
Heaters are rated by BTU, which stands for British Thermal Unit (the amount of heat needed to heat one pound of water by 1 degree F). To find out how many BTU you need:

• Calculate the volume of the space to be heated by multiplying square footage by height.
• Multiply that number by 4 if your insulation is poor, 3 if it's average, or 2 if it's good.

The resulting number is a ballpark figure for how many BTU you'll need.

Do space heaters cost a lot to operate?
As a general rule, electric space heaters are more expensive to use than combustion models. To ensure energy efficiency, a thermostat is a must-have feature for any heater. For radiant heaters, models with a 360 degree heating surface can heat larger spaces. If you need a forced-air heater, models with ceramic elements tend to be more efficient.

Are space heaters a fire hazard?
Space heaters are implicated in about 25,000 residential fires every year. To ensure proper safety, always follow the manufacturer's usage instructions and fill out the warranty card to receive informational updates from the manufacturer. Also, look for extra safety features such as an automatic shutoff switch that can shut down the unit if, for example, it gets upended. In addition, choose a model where the heating element is adequately enclosed within the unit.

Upcoming Preparedness Events

I've learned of a few local events that I have been given an open invitation to share with you.

Reminder dates are posted on the sidebar, here is what I know of the details. If you would like direct addresses, please e-mail me (I don't like posting addresses here)

Saturday, November 22, 9am - 1pm - Hillcrest Stake Preparedness Fair. Topics and classes include Earthquake Preparedness, Winter Storms (prepare for heat & electricity issues,) Shelter In Place and Pandemic Preparedness. The pandemic preparedness will be taught by LDS Church pandemic expert Susan Puls - great information available.

Thursday, January 8 - Geneva Heights Stake. - "The Earthquake Lady."
If you missed this seminar in our stake, your very lucky to have this second chance. Maralin Hoff gives a fantastic presentation including emergency kits for your home, car, school, baby and pet. She also has [mostly] inexpensive tips to "earthquake proof" your home - or at least help your people and belongings be as protected and stable as possible. You can read more about her presentation HERE (there used to be streaming video but it's not working anymore)

Wednesday/Thursday, January 7/8 - CERT Classes - Next course begins. Registration is first come, first served. More information will be posted REALLY soon. If you did not 'graduate' from this most recent course, you may attend to make-up classes this time and complete your training. Please call/e-mail me for registration information.

Pandemic Protection

(From CDC web site)

Taking Protective Actions during a Flu Pandemic

A flu pandemic is an outbreak caused by a new flu virus that spreads around the world. The virus will spread easily from person to person, mostly through coughing and sneezing. Because the virus is new to people, everyone will be at risk of getting it.

During a flu pandemic, you can use simple actions to help protect yourself and others from becoming sick with the flu. No single action protects completely. If used together, the steps below can help reduce the chances of becoming infected.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand cleaner if soap and water are not available.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your arm when you cough and sneeze.

• Stay away from other people if you are ill.

• Avoid crowded places and large gatherings as much as possible.

There may be times during a pandemic when you must be in a crowded setting or in close contact (within 6 feet) with people who might be ill. During such times, the use of a facemask or a respirator might help prevent the spread of pandemic flu.

Wearing a Facemask or a Respirator

Very little is known about the benefits of wearing facemasks and respirators to help control the spread of pandemic flu. In the absence of clear science, the steps below offer a "best estimate" to help guide decisions. They will be revised as new information becomes available.

Consider wearing a facemask if

• You are sick with the flu and think you might have close contact with other people.

• You live with someone who has the flu (you therefore might be in the early stages of infection) and need to be in a crowded place. Limit the amount of time you spend in these crowded places and wear a facemask while you are there.

• You are well and do not expect to be in close contact with a sick person but need to be in a crowded place. Limit the amount of time you spend in these crowded places and wear a facemask while you are there.

Consider wearing a respirator if

• You are well and you expect to be in close contact with people who are known or thought to be sick with pandemic flu. Limit the amount of time you are in close contact with these people and wear a respirator during this time. These recommendations apply if you must take care of a sick person at home.

What is a facemask?

Facemasks are loose-fitting, disposable masks that cover the nose and mouth. These include products labeled as surgical, dental, medical procedure, isolation, and laser masks.

Facemasks help stop droplets from being spread by the person wearing them. They also keep splashes or sprays from reaching the mouth and nose of the person wearing the facemask. They are not designed to protect you against breathing in very small particles. Facemasks should be used once and then thrown away in the trash.

What is a respirator?

Photo courtesy of Moldex

A respirator (for example, an N95 or higher filtering facepiece respirator) is designed to protect you from breathing in very small particles, which might contain viruses. These types of respirators fit tightly to the face so that most air is inhaled through the filter material. To work the best way, N95 respirators must be specially fitted for each person who wears one (this is called "fit-testing" and is usually done in a workplace where respirators are used). Most of the time, N95 respirators are used in construction and other jobs that involve dust and small particles. Some healthcare workers, such as nurses and doctors, use these types of respirators when taking care of patients with diseases that can be spread through the air.

If you have a heart or lung disease or other health condition, you may have trouble breathing through respirators and you should talk with your doctor before using a respirator.

Like surgical masks, N95 respirators should be worn only once and then thrown away in the trash.

Additional Information

Neither a facemask nor a respirator will give complete protection from the flu. That is why it is important to wash your hands often, cover your coughs and sneezes with a handkerchief or your arm, and avoid crowds and gatherings during a pandemic. To learn more about these and other issues relating to pandemic influenza, visit http://www.pandemicflu.gov.

Obedience and Blessings

Happy Sunday!

Ezra Taft Benson
When the economies of nations fail, when famine and other disasters prevent people from buying food in stores, the Saints must be prepared to handle these emergencies.” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, p. 264.)

Bruce R. McConkie
I stand before the Church this day and raise the warning voice. . . . It is a voice calling upon the Lord’s people to prepare for the troubles and desolations which are about to be poured out upon the world without measure. For the moment we live in a day of peace and prosperity but it shall not ever be thus. Great trials lie ahead. All of the sorrows and perils of the past are but a foretaste of what is yet to be. And we must prepare ourselves temporally and spiritually.” (Ensign, May 1979, pp. 92-93.)

We do not know when the calamities and troubles of the last days will fall upon any of us as individuals or upon bodies of the Saints. . . . We can rest assured that if we have done all in our power to prepare for whatever lies ahead, He will then help us with whatever else we need. . . . We do not say that all of the Saints will be spared and saved from the coming day of desolation. But we do say there is no promise of safety and no promise of security except for those who love the Lord and who are seeking to do all that he commands.”
( Ensign, May 1979, p. 93.)

Get a Visual

If you are planning to order a shelter-in-place kit, you will need to record measurements of the door/window openings in your chosen safe room. sheeting will need to be cut 6 inches larger than actual measurements to insure proper sealing.


Ready.gov has some good information about planning for sheltering and evacuation. Know before you need to go (or stay put!) Here's a little of what they have to say:

To "Shelter in Place and Seal the Room"

• Bring your family and pets inside.
• Lock doors, close windows, air vents and fireplace dampers.
• Turn off fans, air conditioning and forced air heating systems.
• Take your emergency supply kit unless you have reason to believe it has been contaminated.
• Go into an interior room with few windows, if possible.
• Seal all windows, doors and air vents with plastic sheeting and duct tape. Consider measuring and cutting the sheeting in advance to save time.
• Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to seal gaps so that you create a barrier between yourself and any contamination.
• Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.

Learn how and when to turn off utilities:

If there is damage to your home or you are instructed to turn off your utilities:

• Locate the electric, gas and water shut-off valves.
• Keep necessary tools near gas and water shut-off valves.
• Teach family members how to turn off utilities.
• If you turn the gas off, a professional must turn it back on. Do not attempt to do this yourself.

Still have a thirst for more? Try THIS and THIS :)

Pandemic & Shelter in Place kits

On November 18th, we will be meeting to assemble the Pandemic and Shelter-in-place kits. Remember to review the sign-ups in the RS binder. If you have questions, didn't see the RS binder or just forgot to sign-up, please call or e-mail me. I will need to finalize the count next week before purchasing kit contents.

Lesson on the Garage Roof

Steven K. and Robert S. Patterson, “Lesson on the Garage Roof,” Ensign, Apr. 1988, 55

After the signal from Dad to commence our family’s mock disaster, each person ran in a different direction. We passed each other in the hallways of the house like busy ants, gathering needed items. With no preparation, we were forced to decide on the run just what we needed. Some of us tried to carry too much; others, in haste, forgot essentials. Mother purposely struggled, hoping someone would help her.

Our goal—to reach the safety of the garage roof in ten minutes.

Once assembled there, we looked around self-consciously, hoping our neighbors were all inside. No such luck! There stood Joe, in the yard next door, trying not to be obvious as he observed our every move. How embarrassing!

Earlier, Dad had called us together for home evening and told us that we would work together as a family to see how we would react in the event of a major citywide crisis. It had sounded like fun, because normally we were not allowed on the garage roof. Father had given each of us just ten minutes to gather what we believed were essentials. It had been exciting!

There we sat, wondering what the six of us must look like. Surrounded by our blankets, sleeping bags, crackers, bread, canned food (and no can opener), cookies, books, genealogy records, and scriptures, we soon forgot Joe and the rest of the neighborhood and began concentrating on the lesson.

We reflected on Lehi’s dream as he and his family were ridiculed by those in the spacious building. (See 1 Ne. 8:26–27.) We came to appreciate, at least partially, the feelings they must have had as they were sent from their home on short notice. And we remembered Noah’s persistence amidst peer ridicule. Dad reminded us that our present circumstance was a result of obedience to a father’s guidance, just as Lehi’s and Noah’s families’ had been in days of old.

As we took stock of our provisions, we found that our last-minute scramble had left us ill equipped for such an emergency. Our disjointed, uncoordinated efforts had not only resulted in serious oversights, but had also shown some degree of selfishness and lack of concern for each other.

As we spent that evening on the roof, enjoying a beautiful summer sunset, watching our neighbors cutting lawns and gardening, several lessons were indelibly fixed in our minds because of this unique family home evening experience. We drank our juice, ate whatever food was not in tins, and came to know each other better. We strengthened our family bonds through this evening on the roof.

We were each impressed deeply with the lessons of the evening: the need to follow parents’ inspired counsel, be prepared for emergencies, care for family members, follow commandments—even under the uncomfortable observation of others—and have faith in the Lord.

Some time later, at a stake conference, our father shared our experiences with an amused congregation. Our faces reddened at the time, but we still find today that there are people who remember us as the “garage roof” family.

I know this phrase is very often used (overused?) but I liked this article from President Hinckley in Oct 2005 Priesthood Session of General Conference. This was just after the devastation in New Orleans following hurricane Katrina.

I have included an excerpt most applicable to this group but the entire article is a great reminder of our role as brothers and sisters on earth to prepare to follow "the pattern of the Nephites as recorded in the book of Alma: “They did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need” (Alma 1:30).

If Ye Are Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear

President Gordon B. Hinckley

We can so live that we can call upon the Lord for His protection and guidance. … We cannot expect His help if we are unwilling to keep His commandments.

Someone has said it was not raining when Noah built the ark. But he built it, and the rains came.

The Lord has said, “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).

The primary preparation is also set forth in the Doctrine and Covenants, wherein it says, “Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come” (D&C 87:8).

We sing the song:

When the earth begins to tremble,
Bid our fearful thoughts be still;
When thy judgments spread destruction,
Keep us safe on Zion’s hill.
(“Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah,” Hymns, no. 83)

We can so live that we can call upon the Lord for His protection and guidance. This is a first priority. We cannot expect His help if we are unwilling to keep His commandments. We in this Church have evidence enough of the penalties of disobedience in the examples of both the Jaredite and the Nephite nations. Each went from glory to utter destruction because of wickedness.

We know, of course, that the rain falls on the just as well as the unjust (see Matt. 5:45). But even though the just die they are not lost, but are saved through the Atonement of the Redeemer. Paul wrote to the Romans, “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord” (Rom. 14:8).

We can heed warnings. We have been told that many had been given concerning the vulnerability of New Orleans. We are told by seismologists that the Salt Lake Valley is a potential earthquake zone. This is the primary reason that we are extensively renovating the Tabernacle on Temple Square. This historic and remarkable building must be made to withstand the shaking of the earth.

We have built grain storage and storehouses and stocked them with the necessities of life in the event of a disaster. But the best storehouse is the family storeroom. In words of revelation the Lord has said, “Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing” (D&C 109:8).

Our people for three-quarters of a century have been counseled and encouraged to make such preparation as will assure survival should a calamity come.

We can set aside some water, basic food, medicine, and clothing to keep us warm. We ought to have a little money laid aside in case of a rainy day.

Now what I have said should not occasion a run on the grocery store or anything of that kind. I am saying nothing that has not been said for a very long time.

Let us never lose sight of the dream of Pharaoh concerning the fat cattle and the lean, the full ears of corn, and the blasted ears; the meaning of which was interpreted by Joseph to indicate years of plenty and years of scarcity (see Gen. 41:1–36).

I have faith, my dear brethren, that the Lord will bless us, and watch over us, and assist us if we walk in obedience to His light, His gospel, and His commandments. He is our Father and our God, and we are His children, and we must be in every way deserving of His love and concern. That we may do so is my humble prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Shelter In Place Kit

We will be working to help you create shelter in place kits including the plastic sheeting and duct tape.

To participate, you will need to decide upon a sheltering place in your home and record the measurements of all doors, windows, vents and other openings in that room, as mentioned in the previous post. Bring those measurements to the Wheat Watchers November meeting where we will cut sheeting to size and label for your home kit. Remember to add 6 inches around for taping allowance.

Pricing will vary as need of plastic sheeting will vary per home.

Shelter In Place

Sheltering in place is meant to give you and your family a safe place to stay indoors for a few hours in the event of a chemical, biological or other airborne hazard that will enter your general airspace. The first thing to think about is where your shelter room will be. You need to choose a room in your home that:
1. Has few windows, doors or other openings to seal from outside air.
2. Is large enough for all family members to turn a circle, with arms extended in a "T", without entering another's space. This ensures enough available oxygen while sheltering.

Then -

From Tooele County, Utah
Be prepared for an emergency such as a chemical agent incident or hazardous materials accident near your home. Make your Shelter-in-Place Kit now so that you can seal your shelter immediately if your local officials instruct you to shelter-in-place. (In our area, we could have only 20-30 minutes to seal our shelter. Less should there be such an accident on the nearby interstate.)

The basics: Store them in your shelter room.

• A large bucket (and another container if needed) with lid [or under bed box] to hold your supplies
• Pre-cut and labeled [heavy duty, clear] plastic sheeting to cover doors, windows, vents and inset cabinets, mirrors, electrical outlets and switches, etc. (Make sure you cut the plastic at least six inches larger than openings so you can tape it to the wall or floor.)
• Duct tape (a couple of rolls) to cover smaller openings and cracks that can’t be covered with plastic sheeting and to tape plastic sheeting to walls, ceiling, floor and doors
• Extra plastic sheeting in case the pre-cut sheeting tears or you need more
• Scissors to cut the tape and sheeting
• A radio with extra batteries
• Bottled water (at least one gallon per person)
• Toilet tissue (The bucket can be used as a toilet.) OR use your Luggable Loo!
  
• A large plastic bag for any contaminated clothing (Seal it with the duct tape.)
• A bath towel. Wet with water and place under door BEFORE sealing with plastic.
  

The last-minute additions: Make a list of these items and put it in a prominent place so you can find it and the items quickly on your way to your shelter room.

• A cordless or cellular phone, if you have one
• Any special health and safety items you can’t store in advance but would need if you have to stay in your shelter for several hours, such as medications and eye glasses
• Pets

Items you may need or want (depending on who will be in your shelter): Put any of these or other items you feel you’ll need or want with the basics in your shelter room now. Don’t delay taking shelter to search for them. Remember, you won’t be asked to Shelter-in-Place for more than a few hours.

• Baby supplies (diapers, formula, etc.)
• Pet supplies
• Pillows, blankets
• Toys, books, magazines, puzzles, etc.
• Snacks with a long shelf life.
• Change of clothing for each person in your shelter

Ready, Set, Act:
Be Ready. Have your Shelter-in-Place Kit Set in your shelter room. Act immediately if instructed to shelter-in-place.

Burn Free

In celebration of fire safety month I have available bottles of BURN FREE. This is a great item to have in your family first aid kit as well as emergency kits.


It will cool, soothe and moisten the burn as it relieves pain. It’s also completely non-adhesive, nontoxic, and won’t irritate skin. BurnFree carries trace amounts of a natural extract called Melaleuca Alternafolia, or Tea Tree Oil. This extract is considered in many countries to have natural anti-germicidal features, which help to prevent infection and promote healing.

Dissipates heat on contact; Cools the burn site, relieves pain, calms the burn victim, help stop the burn progression; Covers the burn, helps to prevent contamination, begins the healing process; Does not evaporate, cools through transference of the heat into the gel system; Portable, easy to use, completely water soluble; Meets ANSI standard for water- based burn treatment; BurnFree contains no drugs

I have used this on minor kitchen burns and sunburns in my family for many years - I love this stuff!

I have 21 bottles available @ $3 each. First come, first served. You may call or e-mail me or I will have them at church Sunday, come find me in the Nursery :)

Meeting Tonight!

7:00 pm.
Room next to Bishop's office
Please come if you can!

If you didn't get to assemble your 72 hr basics kit or portable toilet kit at Super Saturday-come tonight! We will have all the supplies available to "fill your bucket."

We will also learn about how to prepare for a pandemic flu outbreak. The information is based upon the counsel given on the providentliving.org web site.

Learn what sheltering-in place means and how and what you need to do it.

After our discussions, we will decide what items we may want to include in a pandemic and shelter in place kit. Guess what? THAT's our November project-building the kits!

Jeffery R. Holland

Elder Holland again discusses the recent worldly woes happening all around us. He expressed a different tone in comparison to the 2004 fireside previously posted.

The transcripts are not yet available. Please enjoy listening or watching the broadcasted talk originally given September 7 2008.

October Meeting

Please come if you can!
Tuesday, October 21
7:00 pm

We will have the materials available for you to assemble your 72 hour basics and portable toilet kits if you missed Super Saturday.

We will learn about how to prepare for a pandemic flu outbreak. We have been told by Prophets and apostles to expect and prepare for a pandemic avian flu outbreak. I have heard the phrase "Not if, but when pandemic illness comes" over the pulpit a few times. Of course, NOW is the time to prepare. A ward member attended the pandemic seminar given in Spanish Fork in August and will be here to share her knowledge gained in that meeting. The information is based upon the counsel given on the providentliving.org web site.

Did you know we live 20-30 minutes downwind from ? Both these facilities use highly toxic chemicals that if leaked into the air would force much of our area into their homes to "shelter in place." Learn what this entails and how to do it.

After our discussions, we will decide what items we may want to include in a pandemic and shelter in place kit. Guess what? THAT's our November project-building the kits!

FIRE Safety Month

OCTOBER IS. . .
A friend and neighbor some of you may know attended a fire safety presentation last week shared this information on her blog. I asked permission to share it here too. These are all good reminders to keep ourselves and our family safe in a fire. Thanks L for letting me post this again.

Top 6 Rooms/Areas Fires Start

1. Kitchen

2. Laundry Room/Furnace Room

3. Bedroom

4. Family Room

5. Garage

6. Attic

Things You Need to do Every 6 Months

1. Change the batteries & test smoke alarms

2. Clean Behind your Refrigerator,

3. Clean the dryer hose

4. Shake up your Fire Extinguisher (that red thing)

5. Practice Fire Drills

Misconceptions about House Fires

1. A fire is not going to happen to me. (Fact: In your lifetime you will encounter an average of 3 fires at home)

2. There is plenty of time to escape. (Fact: You have about a 1-5 minute time frame. 5 if you are lucky)

3. Only large fires kill. (Fact: the small fires are just as deadly)

4. My smoke alarm will always sound in time. (Fact: 55.8% of smoke alarms fail to work in the event of an actual fire.)

Yep, you read that right 55.8% of smoke alarms fail to work in the event of an actual fire. When he said that everyone there freaked. That is a scarily high number.

Did you know that 4 1/2 Million homes are destroyed in the USA every year because of house fires?

You should have a minimum of 1 working, up kept in your home all the time.

Most home fires occur between midnight and 6 am.

The first danger in a house fire is the lack of oxygen.

One of the things they kept stressing is doing a with your family. They suggest 2 times a year, but the more often you practice, the more likely your family will escape unharmed. And, using the excuse that you have little children is just that, an excuse. Your babies are never too young to know the importance of a fire drill, and if you practice, they will get it too. Along with that, they explained to do as you say...meaning, don't say this isn't a real fire....but act like there really is a fire. And, especially if your kids spend the night at Grandpa and Grandmas house...encourage your parents to have a fire escape plan as well.

They told a story about a woman who attended a presentation in Nov of 2004, and 6 days later her 6 year old daughter was killed when their home caught fire. That really hit home. We don't know when things are going to happen. Tonight, next week, in ten years. But, if we prepare ourselves (as our prophet has been encouraging us to do) then instead of loosing what is most important to us we might just loose our house or maybe our big screen TV.

Make a fire escape plan.

Practice with your whole family...drill it into their heads.

Protect your family by making sure your smoke alarms are up to date and working properly....and just hope yours isn't one of the 55.8% that fail.

This is a video shown at the Fire Suppression CERT classes. Watch the time carefully.


Here's another one that shows flashover happening.

The Wedding Feast

I will post excerpts as pertaining to this blog. I heartily encourage you to read the entire article or watch the video stream from lds.org.

Terror, Triumph and the Wedding Feast

Elder Jeffery R. Holland, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
CES fireside September 12, 2004

The Wedding Feast
When will all of this finish? When shall Christ appear publicly, triumphantly, and the Millennium begin? I have already told you that I don’t know. What I do know is that the initial moments of that event began 184 years ago. I do know that as a result of that First Vision and what has followed it, we live in a time of unprecedented blessings—blessings given to us for the purpose of living faithfully and purely so when the Bridegroom finally and triumphantly arrives, He can personally, justifiably bid us to the wedding feast.Is there a happy future for you and your posterity in these latter days? Absolutely! Most assuredly you have a beautiful future. All wedding feasts are happy occasions. Will there be difficult times when those ominous latter-day warnings and prophecies are fulfilled? Of course there will. There always have been. Be prepared. Will those who have built upon the great rock of Christ withstand such winds, such hail, and the mighty shafts in the whirlwind? You know that they will. You have it on good word. You have it on His word! That “rock upon which ye are built . . . is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men [and women] build they cannot fall” (see Helaman 5:12).

My beloved young brothers and sisters, I leave you my love and my testimony that God not only lives, He loves us. He loves you. Everything He does is for our good and our protection. There is evil and sorrow in the world, but there is no evil or harm in Him. He is our Father—a perfect father—and He will shelter us from the storm.

Ready Kids!

No one wants to instill fear in their child, so it may be easier to avoid the conversation with them of what to do in an emergency. Usually though, talking with them and teaching them what to do in case of an emergency will actually have the opposite effect. Knowledge is power (Thanks Schoolhouse Rock!) and children will feel confident with their abilities to handle an emergency situation, be it an auto accident, fire, or natural disaster. We also need to remember to teach them to have faith in themselves and include prayer and listening to the spirit when dealing with an emergency.

There are two great resources to help parents talk with and act with their children to Get Ready:

PRE-SCHOOL - Ready.gov and Sesame Workshop have teamed up to provide GET READY TOGETHER activity kits directed at parents and children ages 3-5. First, Parents should read through the magazine to get tips on everyday things we can do to prepare our kids anywhere, anytime. Then, read and do activites with your child in the activity book. There is a story about Grover and Elmo working with Grover's mom to be ready for an emergency. There are songs and activities to help your child have fun while learning important information. You may also want to print a short 1-page summary to review often, post on the fridge or pack in an emergency kit.

GRADE SCHOOL - ReadyKIDS is an online program from ready.gov directed at kids 6+ years old. It is set up like an adventure, and helps you get your kids involved in a fun way. Kids themselves navigate through 4 easy steps to learn how they can get their family prepared and allow them to "graduate". Step 1 - Create a Kit, Step 2 - Make a Plan. Step 3 - Know the Facts. Step 4 - Graduate from Readiness U! In addition, there is a "fun and games" link your children will enjoy. There are also fun facts on natural disasters. Like did you know " "Tornado" was a 14th-century sailor's word for a voilent, wind thunderstorm. It may come from the Spanish word tronada, meaning "thunderstorm" " (from Ready.gov).

Check them out and empower your kids as your family GETS READY!

This Great Dispensation

I will post excerpts as pertaining to this blog. I heartily encourage you to read the entire article or watch the video stream from lds.org.

Terror, Triumph and the Wedding Feast

Elder Jeffery R. Holland, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
CES fireside September 12, 2004

This Great Dispensation

We are making our appearance on the stage of mortality in the greatest dispensation of the gospel ever given to mankind, and we need to make the most of it.

Here is a favorite quote of mine from the Prophet Joseph Smith: “The building up of Zion is a cause that has interested the people of God in every age; it is a theme upon which prophets, priests and kings have dwelt with peculiar delight; they have looked forward with joyful anticipation to the day in which we live; and fired with heavenly and joyful anticipations they have sung and written and prophesied of this our day; . . . we are the favored people that God has [chosen] to bring about the Latter-day glory.”²

Note this similar affirmation from Wilford Woodruff in1894. Perhaps I do not need to remind you of the staggering challenges President Woodruff faced. Those years here in the West were, I suppose, every bit as fearful in their own way as were the ones I described in Missouri: prophets in seclusion, apostles in prison, fear (in President Woodruff’s words) “that the whole nation” was turning against our people, preparing to “make war upon” the Church.³

Nevertheless, President Woodruff said in the midst of such troubles: “The Almighty is with this people. We shall have all the revelations that we will need, if we will do our duty and obey the commandments of God. . . . While I . . . live I want to do my duty. I want the Latter-day Saints to do their duty. . . . Their responsibility is great and mighty. The eyes of God and all the holy prophets are watching us. This is the great dispensation that has been spoken of ever since the world began. We are gathered together . . . by the power and commandment of God. We are doing the work of God. . . . Let us fill our mission.”⁴

Lastly, let me share this from President Hinckley, our modern prophet, who currently guides us through the challenging times of our present hour. Citing just last April conference that very theme struck by President Woodruff, he said to all of us:

“We of this generation are the end harvest of all that has gone before. It is not enough to simply be known as a member of this Church. A solemn obligation rests upon us. Let us face it and work at it.

“We must live as true followers of the Christ, with charity toward all, returning good for evil, teaching by example the ways of the Lord, and accomplishing the vast service He has outlined for us.

“May we live worthy of the glorious endowment of light and understanding and eternal truth which has come to us through all the perils of the past. Somehow, among all who have walked the earth, we have been brought forth in this unique and remarkable season. Be grateful, and above all be faithful.”⁵

It is interesting to me that in those three quotations, over a representative period of time, our prophets have focused not on the terror of the times in which they lived and not on the ominous elements of the latter days, in which we are all living, but they felt to speak of the opportunity and blessing, and above all the responsibility, to seize the privileges afforded us in this, the greatest of all dispensations. I love the line from the Prophet Joseph Smith saying that earlier prophets, priests, and kings “have looked forward with joyful anticipation to the day in which we live; and . . . have sung and written and prophesied of this our day.” What were they so joyful about? I can assure you they weren’t concentrating on terror and tragedy. Brother Woodruff’s words were: “The eyes of God and all the holy prophets are watching us. This is the great dispensation that has been spoken of ever since the world began.”⁶ Let me repeat President Hinckley’s words: “Through all the perils of the past, [s]omehow, among all who have walked the earth, we have been brought forth in this unique and remarkable season. Be grateful, and above all be faithful.”

I don’t know how all of that makes you feel, but suddenly any undue anxiety about the times in which we live dissipates for me, and I am humbled and spiritually thrilled, motivated at the opportunity we have been given. God is watching over His world, His Church, His leaders, and He is certainly watching over you. Let’s just make sure we are the “pure in heart” and that we are faithful. How blessed you will be. How fortunate your children and grandchildren will be.

Think about it. No earlier people down through the gospel ages—including our own parents, in many cases—have had anywhere near the blessings that you and I have been given.

Think of the help we have been given to take the light of the gospel to a darkened world. We have approximately 55,000 missionaries—obviously far more than in any other age in the history of the world since time began. And that number is repeated every two years by those going out to replace their predecessors! But we need even more. We have an LDS presence in some 170 countries. We publish our scriptures in more than 100 languages.

Over 6,000 years or so ago there was one temple in the old world (it was rebuilt two or three times, but it was always the same temple on the same mountain: Mount Moriah in Jerusalem) and two or three temples in Book of Mormon history, but now we live in a time when temples are multiplying so rapidly we can hardly keep up. As of a few minutes ago we had 119 active temples with more, I am sure, to be announced and put under construction.

Add the miracle of the computer, which helps us document our family histories and systematically perform saving ordinances for the redemption of our dead. Add modern transportation, which allows the First Presidency, the Twelve, and other General Authorities to circle the globe and personally bear witness of the Lord to all of the Saints in all of the lands. Add that where we cannot go we can now “send,” as the scriptures say, with satellite broadcasts like the one we are using tonight (see D&C 84:62).

Add all the elements of education, science, technology, communication, transportation, medicine, nutrition, and revelation that surround us, and we begin to realize what the angel Moroni meant when he said repeatedly to the boy prophet Joseph Smith, quoting the Old Testament prophet Joel, that in the last days God would pour out His spirit upon “all flesh” and that the whole world, all humankind, would be blessed by the light coming in all fields of endeavor as part of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Joel 2:28; italics added; see also Joseph Smith—History 1:41).

We consider all these blessings that we have in our dispensation, and we pause to say to our Father in Heaven, “How great Thou art”⁷ and “How good Thou art.”

In fact, I have a theory about those earlier dispensations and the leaders, families, and people who lived then, of those whom the Prophet Joseph, President Woodruff, and President Hinckley spoke. I have thought often about them and the destructive circumstances that confronted them. They faced terribly difficult times and, for the most part, did not succeed in their dispensations. Apostasy and darkness eventually came to every earlier age in human history. Indeed, the whole point of the Restoration of the gospel in these latter days is that it had not been able to survive in earlier times and therefore had to be pursued in one last, triumphant age.

We know the challenges Abraham’s posterity faced (and still do). We know of Moses’s problems with an Israelite people who left Egypt but couldn’t quite get Egypt to leave them. Isaiah was the prophet who saw the loss of the 10 Israelite tribes to the north. Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel were all prophets of captivity. Peter, James, John, and Paul, the great figures of the New Testament, all saw apostasy creeping into their world almost before the Savior had departed and certainly while they themselves were still living. Think of the prophets of the Book of Mormon, living in a dispensation ending with such painful communication between Mormon and Moroni about the plight they faced and the nations they loved dissolving into corruption, terror, and chaos.

In short, apostasy and destruction of one kind or another was the ultimate fate of every general dispensation we have ever had down through time. But here’s my theory. My theory is that those great men and women, the leaders in those ages past, were able to keep going, to keep testifying, to keep trying to do their best, not because they knew that they would succeed but because they knew that you would. I believe they took courage and hope not so much from their own circumstances as from yours—a magnificent congregation of young adults like you tonight gathered by the hundreds of thousands around the world in a determined effort to see the gospel prevail and triumph.

Moroni said once, speaking to those of us who would receive his record in the last days:

“Behold, the Lord hath shown unto me great and marvelous things concerning that which must shortly come, at that day when these things shall come forth among you.

“Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing” (Mormon 8:34–35).

One way or another, I think virtually all of the prophets and early apostles had their visionary moments of our time—a view that gave them courage in their own less-successful eras. Those early brethren knew an amazing amount about us. Prophets such as Moses, Nephi, and the brother of Jared saw the latter days in tremendously detailed vision. Some of what they saw wasn’t pleasing, but surely all those earlier generations took heart from knowing that there would finally be one dispensation that would not fail.

Ours, not theirs, was the day that gave them “heavenly and joyful anticipations” and caused them to sing and prophesy of victory. Ours is the day, collectively speaking, toward which the prophets have been looking from the beginning of time, and those earlier brethren are over there still cheering us on! In a very real way, their chance to consider themselves fully successful depends on our faithfulness and our victory. I love the idea of going into the battle of the last days representing Alma and Abinadi and what they pled for and representing Peter and Paul and the sacrifices they made. If you can’t get excited about that kind of assignment in the drama of history, you can’t get excited!