News

November 26, 2024

You Might Change Your Mind About Emergency Planning

You Might Change Your Mind About Emergency Planning

The media has long shaped public perception of preparedness by promoting a stereotypical image of preppers, sensationalizing them as conspiracy theorists or extremists driven by paranoia, all for the sake of attracting clicks and views.   True reality is not that extreme. There are various levels of readiness that range from basic supplies to comprehensive self-sufficiency. Emergency preparedness is fundamentally about protecting what matters most, your family's safety and well-being. Some people keep a few extra batteries and water bottles. Others develop entire systems to weather any storm. Here are some brief examples of different levels of preparation you might see:...

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November 19, 2024

Life Saving Medication: Protect Your Lifeline in an Emergency

Life Saving Medication: Protect Your Lifeline in an Emergency

Sara never expected a landslide would cut off access to the only pharmacy in her mountain town. As she checked her refrigerator that rainy morning, her heart sank – only one insulin pen remained, enough for maybe three days if she managed her son’s diabetes carefully.  The roads were blocked in both directions, and the local news reported it could take up to a week to clear the debris. Her calls to the pharmacy went straight to voicemail; their power was out too. As she watched her neighbors gathering to discuss the situation, Sara realized how quickly an ordinary Tuesday...

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November 11, 2024

When Disaster Strikes: A Pet Owner's Evacuation Nightmare

When Disaster Strikes: A Pet Owner's Evacuation Nightmare

"Daddy, Cooper's breathing funny," Emma whispered, watching their elderly Golden Retriever pace anxiously in the backseat. Their German Shepherd Luna whined softly, picking up on everyone's distress as Mike made what felt like the hundredth phone call from the gas station parking lot. The hurricane evacuation order had come just hours ago, it’s getting dark, and every pet-friendly hotel within 200 miles was booked solid or would only accept small animals. Their aunt had offered to take in the family, but also has severe pet allergies, "Maybe the dogs could stay somewhere else?" Cooper and Luna weren't just pets –...

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November 05, 2024

Emergency Reality Check: Planning for Unexpected Guests

Emergency Reality Check: Planning for Unexpected Guests

A severe storm knocks out power in several cities including yours. Roads are blocked and stores are sold out of most everything. It’s been multiple days and there is still no update on when power will return. You are very relieved to have emergency supplies ready to last and keep your family comfortable until power is restored. Just as you're settling in for the evening, there is a knock on your door. Friends have shown up seeking your help. The real test of your emergency preparedness begins, how long can you last with the additional mouths to feed? How will...

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October 29, 2024

How Risk Management Can Fail: Identifying Critical Assets for Business Preparedness

How Risk Management Can Fail: Identifying Critical Assets for Business Preparedness

One might wonder why it is crucial to identify the right standard when there are so many to choose from.  Let me illustrate with a past client's experience. They wanted to build a program based on NIST 800-53  security and privacy controls. However, our initial assessment revealed that this standard was not suitable for their assets and threats. Despite our advice, they chose to work with another company that was willing to use this standard. The consequences of this decision were significant, leading to a severe financial impact and a loss of reputation. When they lost power and the refrigeration...

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