The new year is less than two weeks old, and the last seven days have seen devastation in various forms in the country. First, a winter storm hit from Kansas, to Missouri, Indiana, and further east. It dumped large amounts of snow, closing many roads and leaving motorists stranded on the roads.
Second, wild fires in southern California went through suburbs of Los Angeles burning multi-million dollar homes to the ground. Some of the residences were right on the beach with a clear view of water, but they still couldn't be saved. Occasions like these make me think what I would do in these situations and consider how to prepare.
Thankfully, Iowa was spared from this latest winter weather, but we're not unfamiliar with it. For the most part, if you stay home and don't try to head out, it won't be a big issue. In my situation, it likely means no caregivers for a day or two, but that's about it. My town mostly has underground power lines that aren't affected by snow and I try to make sure I have plenty of supplies on hand. Fire is a completely different situation though.
In California, some residents waited until the last minute to evacuate, or chose to stay home and try to protect their house with garden hoses. I saw reports that people were filling their cars with belongings, only to abandon them in grid-locked traffic and flee on foot. The vehicles then had to be bulldozed out of the way for fire trucks to get through.If I had to evacuate quickly, it would be a mess, especially if I was in bed. Using my lift takes about 10 minutes to get me in my chair. Along with my wheelchair, I would also need my backup diaphragm pacemaker and the wires and brackets that go along with it. After breathing and locomotion, I also have equipment for bathroom needs as well as clearing out my lungs. Just thinking of it all would likely take more time than I had.
I can be thankful that God has not allowed such a situation to occur in my quad life. However, it's something all of us should probably have in mind, and prepare an emergency kit, just in case. Now that we're starting a new week, I pray it will be calmer for everyone. Whatever may come, it's good to remember that God is in control.