HARD LESSONS FOR THE NORTHEAST

Having lived the nightmare that is the major hurricane, our heart breaks for all the people assaulted by Sandy. We know what it is like to suffer through the fear during the darkness of the storm.  We know the shock of walking outside the morning after to view the unbelievably total devastation.  We have endured the aftermath; no power, roads blocked, houses damaged or destroyed, and life disrupted.  These experiences are truly life-changing. BUT, there are lessons that many folks up north are learning the hard way.  Folks down south learned these lessons long ago.

First and foremost: When the authorities issue a mandatory evacuation for the coastal and low elevation areas, GET THE HELL OUT.  Go to higher ground.  Go inland. No possessions are worth the loss of your life.

Next in importance:  Don't depend on anyone else to see to your needs.  Prepare for your own survival.  

• 1.  If you must evacuate, pack a bag.  If the storm is severe, chances are you will need clothing for several days.  You will need your medication.  If your home is in an area in danger of destruction, take along your important papers. (deed, insurance papers, etc.)

• 2.  If your home is in a relatively safe non-evacuation area and you intend to ride out the storm there, assemble provisions. (a generator, food that doesn't require cooking, cash, water, ice, gasoline for the generator, and anything else you, personally, require for survival. It is, also, a good idea to fill the gas tanks of all your cars)

• 3.  Understand that the government is NOT going to be all things to all people in a major disaster.  In the moments and days post hurricane, the cavalry is NOT right over the hill, waiting to ride to your rescue.  After Hugo, many folks in our area were without power for a MONTH.  We had to fend for ourselves and look out for one another.  No government agency was anywhere to be seen.

Relatively few people died in Hugo.  Without exception, those who did die were doing things they were told NOT to do; riding out the storm on a boat, staying in a trailer, going outside during the storm, or staying in evacuation zones. 

In this latest disaster, we, once again, see that human beings refuse to learn from history.  Granted, the northeast doesn't experience a large volume of tropical storms BUT these occurrences are NOT unprecedented. AND, the weather officials issued a plethora of warnings, advisories, and instructions during a full week before the storm actually hit.  Now, predictably, the same folks who ignored these warnings, advisories, and instructions are in a tizzy because their needs are not being met.  Unfortunately, we know from experience that this situation is bound to get worse before it gets better.  Our prayers go out to all.