What To Do Before, During, And After An Earthquake?

I woke up to the news of a 7.2-earthquake in Bohol. It did not miss the island of Cebu where old churches were trampled to the ground and buildings have collapsed roofs. 

So how do we ensure that we will be safe? Preparation and readiness are keys to survival.

What to Do Before an Earthquake

• Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries at home.
• Learn first aid.
• Learn how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity.
• Make up a plan of where to meet your family after an earthquake.
• Don't leave heavy objects on shelves (they'll fall during a quake).
• Anchor heavy furniture, cupboards, and appliances to the walls or floor.
• Learn the earthquake plan at your school or workplace. 

What to Do During an Earthquake

• Stay calm! If you're indoors, stay inside. If you're outside, stay outside.
• If you're indoors, stand against a wall near the center of the building, stand in a doorway, or crawl under heavy furniture (a desk or table). Stay away from windows and outside doors.
• If you're outdoors, stay in the open away from power lines or anything that might fall. Stay away from buildings (stuff might fall off the building or the building could fall on you).
• Don't use matches, candles, or any flame. Broken gas lines and fire don't mix.
• If you're in a car, stop the car and stay inside the car until the earthquake stops.
• Don't use elevators (they'll probably get stuck anyway).

What to Do After an Earthquake

• Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it.
• Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. Check for the smell of gas. If you smell it, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities (use someone else's phone).
• Turn on the radio. Don't use the phone unless it's an emergency.
• Stay out of damaged buildings.
• Be careful around broken glass and debris. Wear boots or sturdy shoes to keep from cutting your feet.
• Stay away from beaches. Tsunamis sometimes hit after the ground has stopped shaking.
• Stay away from damaged areas.
• If you're at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
• Expect aftershocks. 

Be safe, everyone!

How to Master the 3-minute Speech

Here are some tips on how you can master the 3-minute speech.

1. Expand your definition of a speech.

It’s not just the way you talk for 3 minutes at the front of a room. It’s the way you interact with the audience before and it’s the way you interact with the audience after. Build audience rapport before even delivering your speech. 

2. Do your math.

How long is 3 minutes? Even more basic: How long is 1 minute? Now, the easy answer is: 60 seconds. A minute is 60 seconds. But you need to know much more about “time management” if you’re going to be an effective speaker.

It’s time for a quick lesson on the “rate of speech”. Rate of speech varies by age. Young people talk much faster than older people. It also varies by health. When we’re not feeling well, we prefer to send (and receive) information at a slower pace. Can you see the implications for you as a presenter? A fast pace that’s terrific for an audience of college students would create a disconnect at a retiree gathering.

3. Focus your message.

As Will Durant, the US historian, put it: “One of the lessons of history is that nothing is often a good thing to do and always a clever thing to say.” When in doubt, leave it out.

4. See if you can tie your message into the date in history.

Suppose you were preparing a speech to deliver today. See if you can make any connections to this date in history. 

5. Make adjustments based on audience demographics.

What is the size of the group? The age range? The male/female ratio? How much do you know about their educational backgrounds? Their income levels? Their community priorities? The more you know, the better you can connect.

And remember: In a short speech, you have to connect quickly. There’s simply no time for long prologues. And you have to connect effectively. There’s no patience for irrelevant examples.

6. Be specific.

Audiences remember specifics. They forget generalities.

An example. It’s from Chris Van Gorder, CEO of Scripps Health, speaking at the American College of Healthcare Executives, in his role as Chair-Elect of ACHE:

“San Diego alone has 650 wireless companies, and many are developing advances for health care. Estimates say 50 to 60 percent of primary care will be delivered virtually in the future. 

"Wireless band-aids are being developed to monitor your blood pressure, caloric intake, hydration and heart rate. 

"New drug delivery patches can be radio controlled … from across town, or across country. 

"ECG machines (no bigger than a cell phone, and one-fifth the cost of current equipment) will allow for remote exams. 

"Even pill bottles will include wireless transmitters. Just push a button to alert the pharmacy when you’re running low on medication. 

"Is our future changing? You bet.

"And ACHE will be there to advance our profession – our calling – in these rapidly changing times.”

Did you hear how the use of specific details made this speech more interesting and more memorable?

7. Watch your pronouns

More than anything else, pronouns convey “the friendliness factor.” Pronouns can help pull the audience closer.

Count the number of time you use “we", “you”, and “I”. That ratio tells something about you as a speaker.

For example, “we” conveys camaraderie, cooperation, teamwork. Think of Winston Churchill in 1941: “Give us the tools and we will finish the job.”

“You” builds direct rapport with an audience. President Kennedy knew this when he said: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.”

“I” is important because it conveys the speaker’s voice, the speaker’s commitment, the speaker’s dedication. Too many speakers shy away from using “I” – and they’re missing a powerful technique. Listen to Senator Hubert Humphrey’s voice in this line: “I learned more about politics during one South Dakota dust storm than I got in seven years in the university.” 

8. Give it some style.

Be visual.

When H.R. Haldeman commented on the Watergate affair, he said: "Once the toothpaste is out of the tube, it’s hard to get it back in.”

Here’s a vivid description from Gerald Ford: “A bronco is something that kicks and bucks, twists and turns, and very seldom goes in one direction. We have one of those things here in Washington – it’s called the Congress.” 

There’s nothing new about using visual images to sell your point. Here’s a memorable comment from Teddy Roosevelt about his predecessor, William McKinley: “McKinley shows all the backbone of a chocolate éclair.”

Use rhetorical devices.

Listen to this from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr: “Morality cannot be legislated, but behavior can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless.”

Hear the rhetorical power in this line from Senator Robert Kennedy: “Justice delayed is democracy denied.”

9. Use a light touch of humor.

Don’t use complex jokes. They’re too hard to tell. (Plus, they eat up too much of your limited time,)

Instead, use short one-liners. This is one from Will Rogers: "Alexander Hamilton started the U.S. Treasury with nothing … and that was the closest our country ever was to being even.”

Who knew how to use humor better than President Ronald Reagan? He once quipped: “There were so many candidates on the platform that there weren’t enough promises to go around.”

Listen to this humor from Ann Richards, speaking at the Democratic Convention: “Twelve years ago Barbara Jordan, another Texas woman, made the keynote address to this convention, and two women in 160 years is about par for the course. But, if you give us a chance, we can perform. After all, Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels.”

10. Fix your delivery problems.

You only have your voice, your body language and your eye contact. That’s it. Those are the only delivery tools you have to “sell” your message.

If your voice needs improvement, start improving. And start now. Ditto with your body language and your eye contact.

Read books. Take classes. Get coaching. Attend presentations.  Ask a colleague to critique your speeches and monitor your improvement. If you want really candid comments about your delivery skills, just ask a kid: A kid will always tell you the truth. Your staff might not venture to say that you have a most annoying way of clearing your throat whenever you start to speak but a kid will tell you about this annoying problem flat-out.

11. Consider your A-V options.

You can reinforce a short speech with a wide range of simple audio-visual options: props, letter from a parent or a friend,  music playing as the audience enters, posters made by local school kids, compelling photographs. The simplest of things (free, or very low cost) can grab an audience’s attention and create a hook for valuable media coverage.

12. Don’t run overtime.

Remember: There are very few people who don’t become more interesting when they stop talking!

Think of speeches as “business investments” in the communities you serve. Respect your audiences by staying within their timeframe.

A good speech builds audience rapport and leaves an audience wanting to hear you again.

Take a lesson from Mark Twain. He said: “It takes about 3 weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech.” So get started now: Write down 1 key message, and use these dozen guidelines to polish it.

So, the next time someone asks, “Can you speak for a few minutes?", you’ll be prepared to make every second count.

Excerpted from: 

Trends, Techniques and Tips
Strictly for Speakers: How to handle the short speech

(http://www.vsotd.com/Article.php?art_num=4371)

“When God Created Mothers" by Erma Bombeck

When the Good Lord was creating mothers, He was into His sixth day of "overtime" when the angel appeared and said. "You're doing a lot of fiddling around on this one." 

And God said, "Have you read the specs on this order?" She has to be completely washable, but not plastic. Have 180 moveable parts...all replaceable. Run on black coffee and leftovers. Have a lap that disappears when she stands up. A kiss that can cure anything from a broken leg to a disappointed love affair. And six pairs of hands." 

The angel shook her head slowly and said. "Six pairs of hands.... no way." 

It's not the hands that are causing me problems," God remarked, "it's the three pairs of eyes that mothers have to have." 

That's on the standard model?" asked the angel. God nodded. 

One pair that sees through closed doors when she asks, 'What are you kids doing in there?' when she already knows. Another here in the back of her head that sees what she shouldn't but what she has to know, and of course the ones here in front that can look at a child when he goofs up and say. 'I understand and I love you' without so much as uttering a word." 

God," said the angel touching his sleeve gently, "Get some rest tomorrow...." 

I can't," said God, "I'm so close to creating something so close to myself. Already I have one who heals herself when she is sick...can feed a family of six on one pound of hamburger...and can get a nine year old to stand under a shower." 

The angel circled the model of a mother very slowly. "It's too soft," she sighed. 

But tough!" said God excitedly. "You can imagine what this mother can do or endure." 

Can it think?" 

Not only can it think, but it can reason and compromise," said the Creator. 

Finally, the angel bent over and ran her finger across the cheek. 

There's a leak," she pronounced. "I told You that You were trying to put too much into this model." 

It's not a leak," said the Lord, "It's a tear." 

What's it for?" 

It's for joy, sadness, disappointment, pain, loneliness, and pride." 

You are a genius, " said the angel. 

Somberly, God said, "I didn't put it there.” 

Dear Me In the Future

Would you like to remember how today is like exactly a year or two from now with no one telling you about it but you?

Would you like to remember what you and your kids did today, say, ten years from now?

Would you like just to remember things the way you experienced them?

I often catch myself asking, "What happened a year ago around this time? How was life like then?" And boy, I cannot remember. I am past that stage of diary-writing. What did I feel? What did I do? How did I react? There's that widening memory gap.

Remember the mommy in the movie "Safe Haven" (2013) who, before she passed away, wrote a letter to each of her family members with a note on the envelope telling them when they are supposed to open each letter? She even wrote one for "Her"- the girl who will love and be loved by her husband. Her letters were kept on a drawer until a fire consumed her entire legacy. All is gone.

We don't want memories and thoughts to turn into ashes, do we? It's good, we now can write letters to ourselves in the future. We can also write letters to our family, friends, and loved ones and we can decide when they will receive it. These letters can be about anything! We can communicate to them and to ourselves in the future. How cool is that?

Ohlife's time capsule can help us remember momentous events, milestones, or simple things that we want to keep in our memory banks. Just indicate when you want to receive your letter to your future self, write the letter, write down your email address, and finally click "Submit". It's that easy and simple. Millions of letters have been written. Why not send one to yourself now?

Ohlife's time capsule

Click here to start writing.

Be safe everyone!

Remembering Our Teachers, Our Heroes

Do you remember that one particular teacher who made the biggest impact in your life aside from your mother? When was the last time you thanked her or him for giving you a grade of 99, for giving you a hug when you needed it most, or for praising your beautiful artwork?

We are observing Teacher's Month from September 5 to October 5 this year to give us all the time to express our gratitude to our beloved teachers. They, who became our second parents in school by default, took us as their very own children. They spend most of their nights thinking of the ways they can better teach us the following day. Moms and Dads don't make parenting plans on an everyday basis but teachers have their custom-built lesson plans. It is a profession that is not paying as good as the other professions when in fact, teaching is the only profession whose influence extends to all generations.

When I was still a little kid, there was no Teacher's Month yet. I and my classmates visit our former teachers during Valentine's Day and pin a cutout heart or a cupid in her blouse. The most loved teacher had the longest trail of hearts in her uniform at the end of the day. Oh, how proud we were to see our favorite teacher with our little hearts!

Kids nowadays can thank their teachers, their heroes the high-tech way - via an online blackboard. You can access the Virtual Blackboard by clicking this on link.

Thank you, dear teachers! You are indeed our heroes!

A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.

- Brad Henry

Please use the comments section below and tell us about your teacher, your hero. 

Be safe everyone!

Why Say No to Coal Fueled Power Plant

A friend e-mailed and asked me about my opinion on coal fueled power plant in Palawan. I replied with a brief "No no to coal plants. How are you?" Honestly, I am not fully aware of the issue until I came across an Inquirer news written by Redempto Anda (Palawan coal plant meets protests anew).

So Narra rejected the project and now they are eyeing Sitio Marikit in San Juan. Dear People of Aborlan, I am begging you earnestly and desperately NOT TO ALLOW this coal fired power plant to be erected anywhere in Aborlan. Please let your voices be heard.

I assume some of you wants to make an informed decision before joining any protests. I compiled the following information and hopefully, it can add to your knowledge on the matter as it did to mine:

WHAT IS COAL?

A fossil fuel, coal forms when dead plant matter is converted into peat, which in turn is converted into lignite, then sub-bituminous coal, after that bituminous coal, and lastly anthracite. This involves biological and geological processes that take place over a long period. Coal is the largest source of energy for the generation of electricity worldwide, as well as one of the largest worldwide anthropogenic sources of carbon dioxide releases.

WHY SAY NO TO COAL PLANT?

These are just some of the environmental impacts of a coal fueled power plant:

1. The combustion of coal contributes the most to acid rain and air pollution, and has been connected with global warming. 

Emission levels of various pollutants are still on average several times greater than natural gas power plants. In modern designs, pollution from coal-fired power plants comes from the emission of gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide into the air.

Fossil fueled power stations are major emitters of CO2, a greenhouse gas (GHG) which according to a consensus opinion of scientific organisations is a contributor to global warming as it has been observed over the last 100 years.

The World Bank president, Jim Yong Kim, said a two degrees Celsius rise in average temperatures would leave millions of people trapped in poverty.

2. Of the fossil fuels, coal is much more carbon intensive than oil or natural gas, resulting in greater volumes of carbon dioxide emissions per unit of electricity generated.

Brown coal emits about 3 times as much CO2 as natural gas, and black coal emits about twice as much CO2 per unit of electric energy.

3. The emission of particulates have a serious impact on public health. 

Studies have shown that exposure to particulate matter is related to an increase of respiratory and cardiac mortality. Particulate matter can irritate small airways in the lungs, which can lead to increased problems with asthma, chronic bronchitis, airway obstruction, and gas exchange.

4. Coal can lead to radioactive contamination. 

As the rest of the Earth's crust, coal also contains low levels of uranium, thorium, and other naturally occurring radioactive isotopes whose release into the environment leads to radioactive contamination. While these substances are present as very small trace impurities, enough coal is burned that significant amounts of these substances are released.

5. Coal ash can contaminate ground water with toxic elements.

A study released in August 2010 that examined state pollution data in the United States by the organizations Environmental Integrity Project, the Sierra Club and Earthjustice found that coal ash produced by coal-fired power plants dumped at sites across 21 U.S. states has contaminated ground water with toxic elements. Ground water sites across the United States are contaminated by power plant-produced coal ash. The contaminants include the poisons arsenic and lead.

Arsenic has been shown to cause skin cancer, bladder cancer and lung cancer, and lead damages the nervous system. Coal ash contaminants are also linked to respiratory diseases and other health and developmental problems, and have disrupted local aquatic life. Coal ash also releases a variety of toxic contaminants into nearby air, posing a health threat to those who breath in fugitive coal dust.

6. Coal fueled power plants causes mercury contamination. 

U.S. government scientists tested fish in 291 streams around the country for mercury contamination. They found mercury in every fish tested, according to the study by the U.S. Department of the Interior. They found mercury even in fish of isolated rural waterways. Twenty five percent of the fish tested had mercury levels above the safety levels determined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for people who eat the fish regularly. The largest source of mercury contamination in the United States is coal-fueled power plant emissions.

It's unacceptable that US is blocking coal fired power plants.

"The Obama administration plans to block the construction of new coal-fired power plants unless they are built with novel and expensive technology to capture greenhouse-gas emissions... The only way coal plants could comply is to capture carbon-dioxide emissions and stick them underground—a costly process that hasn't been demonstrated at commercial scale before." 

Even World Bank will no longer fund coal fired power stations.

"In a big policy shift, the World Bank says it'll no longer fund coal fired power stations in poor countries." 

SO WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?

Are we left with a choice between life-damaging brownouts and coal fueled power plant? Say no to coal plant and live in darkness? Not necessarily.

Palawan has the money. Instead of getting tied with DMCI's coal fired power plant projects, why not tap renewable sources? Yes, renewables are more expensive to build but how is it different from the principle taught us by our parents? Buy an expensive shoes or bag because it will last longer than a cheap one. They can tap hydro power, wave, tidal, solar, and wind. Just look at the potential of renewable resources:

"Renewable energy sources, that derive their energy from the sun, either directly or indirectly, such as Hydro and wind, are expected to be capable of supplying humanity energy for almost another 1 billion years, at which point the predicted increase in heat from the sun is expected to make the surface of the Earth too hot for liquid water to exist."

I understand DMCI is conducting information campaigns around. Please don't get swayed by the advantages. The disadvantages far outweigh the benefits. Our leaders in Aborlan should consider the future generations and not just our needs at present. So please convince them not to allow the coal fired power plants.

What's the point of living comfortably today if our posterity cannot see and benefit from the kind of environment we lived in?

I think it better to do right, even if we suffer in so doing, than to incur the reproach of our consciences and posterity. 

- Robert E. Lee

Don't forget to sign the petition by clicking on the link at the right panel above or by clicking on this link HERE.

Be safe everyone!

Emergency Hotlines in the Philippines

Did you know that 117 (pronounced one-one-seven) is the national emergency telephone number for the Philippines? It is managed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and is also referred to by its official name, Emergency Network Philippines (ENP). Colloquially, it is also called Patrol 117, the name used by the Philippine National Police, where the number originated. It is the only emergency telephone number in the world that is accessible through both voice telephony and text messaging.

Here are the emergency hotlines in the Philippines that every household should take note.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Hotline Patrol 

117 or send TXT PNP to 2920

National Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) hotlines 

(02) 911-1406, (02) 912-2665, (02) 912-5668, (02) 911-1873

Bureau of Fire Protection (NCR)

117, (02) 729-5166, (02) 410-6319 (Regional Director, Information Desk)

Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) hotline 

7890 or (02) 726-6255

Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) 

136, 882-0925 (flood control) 

Trunkline: (02) 882-4150-77 loc. 337 (rescue), 255 (Metrobase) Metrobase: 882-0860

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

(02) 304-3713, (02) 304-3904

Red Cross hotline 

143, (02) 527-0000, (02) 527-8385 to 95

North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) hotlines 

(02) 3-5000 and (02) 580-8910

Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) hotlines 

(0920) 96-SCTEX (72839) (traffic hotline) or (045) 459-0522

Skyway System Hotline

(02) 776-7777, 0917-539-8762 (globe), 0999-888-0893 (smart), 0932-854-6980 (sun)

South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) hotline 

0917-6877539 (globe), (049) 508-7509, (02) 584-4389

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) hotline 

(02) 433-8526

Philippine Coast Guard 

(02) 527-3877, (02) 527-8481, 0917-724-3682 (globe), 0917-PCG-DOTC (globe)

Manila Water Hotline 

1627

PHIVOLCS 

Trunkline: (02) 426-1468 to 79, local 124/125 (emergency);
Text/call: 0905-313-4077 (globe)

DSWD 

(632)931-81-01 to 07, local 426 (Disaster Response Unit); (02) 951-7119

Local government units (partial)

Manila Traffic Hotline – 527-3087
Cainta Traffic Hotline – 646-0044, (02) 248-1743 (hotline)
Las Piñas Traffic – 874-5756, 874-3927, 874-5754, 874-5753
Mandaluyong Hotline – 534-2993 (traffic); 533-2225 (Command Control Center)
Taguig Traffic – 838-4301 loc. 7112
Marikina STOC – 646-1651, (02) 646-1633 (traffic)
Pasig Traffic – 643-0000 (Command Control Center); 643-1111
Makati Public Safety Dept – 844-3146, 819-3270 to 71
Makati Command Center- 168

Source: Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines (http://www.gov.ph/emergency-hotlines/)

How to Have Safe Drinking Water At Home

Image from http://bit.ly/128I6Ps

During times of disaster and emergencies  like earthquake, typhoon, and flood, we must be ready with our water supply. The following guidelines must be observed to ensure that the water we drink is clean and safe.

Water Storage

We can purchase commercially bottled water in plastic containers. Avoid containers that are not made of polyethylene terephthalate plastic, commonly abbreviated as PET or PETE. Take note of the "best before" date so we know when to replace our stock. Almost every neighborhood has a water purification station and a 4-gallon container costs around 35 to 40 pesos. 

.

If you choose to stock water yourself, consider the following:

• Use only food-grade containers. Smaller containers made of PET plastic or heavier plastic buckets or drums can be used also. Do not use containers previously used to store non-food products. 
• Clean, sanitize, and thoroughly rinse all containers before use. A sanitizing solution can be prepared by adding 1 teaspoon of liquid household chlorine bleach (5 to 6% sodium hypochlorite) to 1 liter of water. Do not use household bleach with thickeners or scents. 
• Label and put a date on the water container so you know when to cycle. Ideally, do not keep drinking water longer than 6 months. Supermarket supplied water needs to be cycled within 6 months to a year with fresh supplies.

Water Pretreatment

If water was obtained from a chlorinated water supply, there is no need for further treatment when stored in clean, food-grade containers. Non-chlorinated water should be treated with bleach  (5 to 6% sodium hypochlorite). Add 8 drops of liquid household chlorine bleach for every 4 liters (one gallon) of water. Use only household bleach without thickeners, scents, or additives. 

Storage

• It is recommended that you have a variety of containers of varying sizes so in case of home evacuation, everyone can possibly carry a water container.  
• Ensure that water containers are emptied and refilled regularly. 
• Store water only in areas where potential leakage would not damage your home.
• Store the water away from anything that could contaminate it such as pesticides, fungicides, insecticides, gasoline, paint, or any other chemicals.
• Protect stored water from light and heat. Use opaque containers.
• Fill the containers with water to overflowing and then place the lid on top. Don't leave an air gap. 
• Store water where it can be easily accessed.  

Water Purification

If your water supply is unsafe or has become contaminated, it should be purified before use. Generally, water purification consists of two-step process. 

Step 1: Clarify

Use filter paper, fine cloth, or some other filters to clarify cloudy or unclear water.  It should be allowed to settle and then the clear water on top can be carefully drawn then disinfected. 

Step 2: Disinfect

• Boiling Method. Boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes will kill most water-borne microorganisms. Do not prolong boiling of small quantities of water as it may concentrate toxic contaminants if present.
• Bleach Method. Adding 8 drops of fresh liquid household chlorine bleach (5 to 6% sodium hypochlorite) to every 4 liters (one gallon) of water will kill most microorganisms. Only household bleach without thickeners, scents, or additives should be used. It should be noted that the use of bleach does not address toxic contamination. 
• Commercial Water Filters. Commercial water filters can effectively filter and purify water contaminated with microorganisms, toxic chemicals, and heavy metals. Their effectiveness depends on design, condition, and proper use.

Sources:

Bradley, A.T. (2010). Handbook to Practical Disaster Preparedness.

Drinking Water Guidelines. https://www.lds.org/topics/food-storage/drinking-water-guidelines?lang=eng

The 72-Hour Kit

It's now typhoon season. At times like this, our readiness to live through the rains and floods must be checked. In case, are we ready to survive for three days of incessant rains? Can we sustain ourselves for three days during a calamity? 

To increase our chances of survival, we are advised often to be ready with our food storage and emergency survival skills. This includes having the handy 72-hour kit. In case there is a need to evacuate, this kit should be easy and light enough to carry. For practical reasons, each family member should have prepared and be able to carry his own 72-hour kit.

72-hour kit

Image from http://tx.english-ch.com/teacher/jun/kit.jpg

Here is a list of items to include in a 72-hour kit. Be sure everyone knows the content of his or her kit and never lose sight of it in the event of an evacuation from home.

Food and Water

(Must be good for a three-day supply for each member of the family)

• Protein or Granola Bars
• Dried Fruits
• Crackers/Biscuits/Cereals
• Canned goods like corned beef, corned tuna, pork and beans
• Candies and chocolates that wouldn't melt in storage
• Other foods that will not require cooking or heating
• Water (1 Gallon/4 Liters Per Person)

Bedding and Clothing

• Change of Clothing (short and long sleeved shirts, pants, jackets, socks, etc.)
• Undergarments
• Rain Coat/Poncho
• Blankets 
• Cloth Sheet
• Plastic Sheet

Fuel and Light

• Flashlight
• Extra Batteries
• Candles
• Lighter
• Water-Proof Matches

Equipment

• Can opener
• Dishes/Utensils
• Battery-operated Radio
• Pen and Paper
• Pocket Knife
• Rope
• Duct Tape
• Cellular phone
• Whistle 

Personal Supplies and Medication

• First Aid Kit and Supplies
• Toiletries packed in a plastic bag (feminine wash, baby wipes, toilet paper, soaps, toothbrush, etc.)
• Medication (Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Antihistamine, children's medication etc.)
• Prescription Medication (for 3 days)

Personal Documents and Money

• Scriptures
• Birth/Marriage Certificates, Wills, Passports, Contracts, etc.
• Vaccination Papers
• Insurance Policies
• Cash
• Credit Card
• Pre-Paid Phone Cards

Miscellaneous

• Lightweight, waterproof bags to put 72-hour kit items in
• Infant supplies (if needed)

Reminders:

• Check for expired items and update your 72-hour kit every six months. Be sure that personal documents and credit cards are up to date.
• Pack in some small toys as they will provide some comfort and entertainment during a stressful time especially to children.
• Some items and/or flavors might leak, contaminate other items, or break open. Group items and put them in sealed containers or plastic bags.
• Include other items in your 72-hour kit that you feel are necessary for your family's survival.

Be safe, everyone!

Reference: http://lds.about.com/od/preparednessfoodstorage/a/72hour_kit.htm

Bored at 40? Start a New Hobby!

Turning 40 is a new milestone. It means you've established yourself in your career, kids are off to college, and you're tired of the usual stuff you're doing around the house. Or, you are momentarily in a situation where your time is all in your hands. Days are getting boring and tiresome. You feel so unproductive. Lying in bed with your gadget the whole day does not count as a productive endeavor.

It is never too late to get up, move around, and try new things, no matter how silly you think they are. It is the right time to start a new hobby, in addition to pruning your roses in the garden and changing the wall paper of your cellphone.

Here's a short list of possible hobbies and hopefully you can pick one or two that you will enjoy tremendously.

Learn a new language.

Not only it is challenging, but learning a new local or foreign language gives you a skill that can break barriers between neighbors.  It can create new friendships and can open you into new possibilities. It is a great exercise for the brain as what crunches do to your abdomen.

Paint or draw.

Everyone of us harbors an artist within. With a box of crayon or a good set of brushes and paints, you can create works of art. It may not attract buyers but the feeling of relaxation that it renders you is priceless. When I was in college, I buy children's coloring books and I feel relaxed and stress-free every time I color fishes, flowers, and Bugs Bunny.

Start a new sport, exercise, or physical activity.

If you're living a sedentary life for the last two decades, it would not be easy to start a new sport. The best physical activity to start you off is walking. It is free, easy, and good for anyone. Later, when walking is no longer challenging, try running with a buddy. You can always pick a sport or physical activity that you like and enjoy and meets your level of physical fitness. I suggest badminton, tennis, or volleyball. You can go swimming, hiking, biking, and trail running if you are more adventurous. You will be amazed that a year later, you are a new person because you are healthier and fitter.

Enroll in a self-improvement course.

It might be the best time to enroll in a speech class. You might want to get a tutor to teach you how to play a musical instrument or dance the Cha cha cha. You can develop new homemaking skills like cooking and baking or learn basic accounting and other business skills. You can also learn about car repairs. No one knows what these new skills can do to you and to your family. It is also a nice opportunity to meet new friends who share the same passion with you.

Start writing.

A good notebook and a good pen, or a laptop, can unleash the writer in you. You can start writing a journal or a blog about things that you are passionate about. It may be hard to put thoughts into words at first but writing constantly helps in unlocking those difficulties.

Start a collection of seemingly mundane things.

It may look absurd to others but collecting things can be therapeutic. I was an avid collector of rocks, bottle caps, stationery, mugs, stickers, fans, and pens. I tell you, it gives a different kind of satisfaction just to find a unique item to add to my growing collection.

Be a local tourist.

What? You're living in your city for two decades and you haven't visited the museum? You're not aware of the local tourist spots in your province? If your budget permits, you can visit one or two tourist attractions each month. It will open your eyes to the beauty of your place and be more aware of the local culture. Who knows, you might be of help in promoting ecotourism in your place. So pack those bags for a weekend and be a local tourist.

Be a photographer.

Almost everyone has a point-and-shoot camera but not everyone is a photographer. You can take photography seriously by learning the craft by heart. This can later become a full-blown career of yours. Prenuptial shoots are in and so with baby photography, food photography, and much more.

Make DIY a part of your vocabulary.

You can learn to make something out of some pieces of wood, nails, and hammer. With a can of paint, you can do some crafts for the home. You can beautify the garden with some DIY projects. So visit the hardware and find what you need to build tables, bench, and other simple furnitures. It takes practice to become creative.



These are just some of the things that you can take up as a hobby. I'm sure, there are some more based on your interest and capability. Start, keep at it and it will become a habit!

Six Ways to Keep Busy With Kids On Rainy Days

So rainy days are here again and it seems there's no let up with the drizzles. Kids are tired of bundling up in the bed. The little one is starting to bite the bigger one. Going out is a no no. We can't stop the incessant rains. What to do??? 

Aside from yelling and shouting, moms can do something to introduce peace at home on rainy days. I have two little toddlers and I can totally relate with you. So when these monsoon rains started pouring, I have to think fast and see what I can do to keep them busy.

Here's six of the things we've tried so far. You can try these with your kids or you can do something out of your imagination.

Bring out those scratch papers and build paper planes.

Kids love paper planes! The squeals as the plane soar in the confines of your room is music! The wonder is endless as they try and try to make the planes fly. You can try making different sizes out of old newspapers and try changing the wings by making small folds on the tips. You can teach your little kids to make one and let them throw it in the air. You don't know how to make a paper plane? There's a tutorial on YouTube.

Image from http://bit.ly/17BVKso

Draw anything.

Give each of your kids a big pencil for easier manipulation. Help them trace their hands on a white paper and do it a few times until they have superimposed hand drawings. Color the hand drawings and see who's got the most creative drawing of them all. You can try superimposing your mommyhands with their little hands. The first time we did this activity, my daughter marveled at the size difference of our hands that she kept on touching mine.

Image from http://bit.ly/1dk9ZXq

Invent Something in the Kitchen

See what is in your cupboard and refrigerator. Try to see what you can combine to make something edible and palatable. We got tired of the usual bread-and-egg snacks so I took a good look at my pack of oatmeal. I still have some Milo packets, a handful of Flat Tops chocolate, powdered milk, and sugar. Normally, my kids would not touch oatmeal but when I carried them to the kitchen and they saw what I was cooking, their level of anticipation soared up! Wham! Oatmeal Champorado was an instant hit! Sometimes kids need to feel involved in the kitchen so they will like what's prepared. You can try your own recipe. Anyway, the thing is, you need to invent and let them assist you with as simple as putting in an ingredient on the bowl. You all can become busy while enjoying each other's company. The opportunity is endless. Just trust your kids that they will be of help.

Image from http://epi.us/15pGy0W

Watch and Learn 

Instead of just passively watching a recurring show on tv, make it a learning experience by letting them dance or sing along with Ryzza Mae. You can also let them watch educational cartoons from YouTube. You can pop in a DVD of their favorite movies. Be mindful of what they watch, first and foremost. You wouldn't like your kids imitating undesirable behaviors on tv or online. Watch with them and take it as a learning moment. You can teach them about emotions. Try asking, "Is she sad or happy?", "Why do you think she is sad?" You can also teach them about reasoning. Ask questions like "Was he right in doing that?", "Do you think it is okay to do that?" Parents are always the best teacher.

Image from http://n.pr/19Cwubd

Theater and Awards

The bed can be the greatest stage where your kids can showcase their theatrical prowess. Baby girls can be little princesses while little boys can be princes or lions or tiger. Mom could be the witch or the wicked stepmother. Or you can all switch roles. The pillows can be the walls of the tower and the blankets can be the prince's cape or the princess's gown. But before going into the show proper, you can all plan together. Let your kids develop the storyline and mom or dad should not get in the way. Let their imagination direct the show. Daddy can be the lone audience or whoever did not land any roles. Don't forget to give out special awards at the end of the presentation. The best actor and best actress must be recognized. Don't forget to give each one an award. Follow it up with a warm soup for snacks. Make the show short but fun and memorable for everyone! Let this be an opportunity for the kids to use their imagination, experiment, and play at the same time.

Image from http://bit.ly/14Z4ytH

Story-telling with a Twist

This one is my personal favorite. When everyone is tired, washed, then fed, lie comfortably in the bed or spread out a mat on the floor and have an instant camping right in the middle of the room. Mom or Dad can be the storyteller. In our home, I am the default storyteller and I tell the story like this: "Once upon a time, there was a farmer who lives in a far-away land. He has thousands and thousands and thousands of cows. Everyday, he has to bring the cows in the river so the cows can drink water. The farmer has no helper so he brings the cows to the river alone. He has a stick in his hand and a hat on his head. He is old but strong. One day, he leads his cows to the river. They walked far, far, into the forest until they reached a bridge. The bridge is old and rickety so the cows must cross one at a time. (Here comes the twist) "Okay children, let's wait for a while. The cows are crossing the bridge one at a time. Keep quiet so they won't get startled or else they will fall from the bridge."  Then I stop, I close my eyes and let them wait a few minutes. Then I tell them, "Close your eyes, let's sleep while the cows are still crossing the bridge". When someones asks if the cows have all crossed, I tell them, "there are thousands and thousands of cows and only 76 have passed so sleep some more." Mind you, this is effective in keeping them quiet, anticipating the continuation of the story, while making them fall asleep. Sometimes I succeed in stretching the story for an entire week! Well, it was how my father did when I was the little one.

Image from http://bit.ly/1cRHNO4

These are just some of the activities we've done at home on a rainy season. I'm still discovering new ways of making good use of our idle time so they won't grow restless and rowdy. There are many more things we can do on a rainy day and it's just our imagination that sets the limit. Enjoy the monsoon!

How to Shop Safely and Securely Online

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Shopping is every woman's feel-good exercise. We feel better after making a payment. It makes us feel powerful, having full control of our wallets. We have this feeling of satisfaction that only buying can give us. Our purchasing power is greater than our self-restraints at times to the chagrin of our husbands. Whether we purchase things in the mall, in a department store, in an ukay-ukay, or in a flea market, we are doing it in way to satisfy one of our basic feminine needs, that is, to be relieved of stress.

At this modern era of heightened dependence on information technology, even shopping is done online. With the convenience of cashless transactions, cellular phones, and Internet-based stores, shopping can be done at the convenience of one's home.

Getting Hooked and Getting Disappointed

I was at first adamant about buying things from a total stranger lest from a virtual store. But upon receiving my first ever eBay purchase in 2010, all my fears evaporated. It was nice to know that the seller thought that it was a "fast & hassle-free transaction for first-time eBayer". Aside from eBay, I tried Human Heart Nature, Metrodeal, CashCash Pinoy, and Lazada. If it was not "hassle-free", it was a "easy, fast, painless transaction." I got hooked and it feels nice in a way. The feeling of being trusted and trusting in return has a good effect to my purchasing power.

So far I have purchased a tool set for hubby, various hair and skin products, a kid's play tent, cellphones, curtains, a power hose, a shoe rack, and a personal Shake and Take smoothie make. I also bought vouchers online for shows and special events for my kids.

It was good until this latest purchase. I bought an underbed shoe storage which, upon delivery, was discovered to be slightly damaged. The delivery boy left the package to the guard of my daughter's dorm contrary to the agreement that it will only be handed to her and not to anybody else since she is required to present an identification and a copy of the voucher. So when she discovered that the zipper is damaged, she have no chance to report it to the delivery boy. To return the item is not a practical option since it would be more expensive to pay for the freight. She opted to keep the item and live with its damaged zipper. I vowed never to buy from that online store ever again.

Tips for a Safe and Secure Online Shopping

So how can we avoid a similar incident in the future? Before you buy anything online, take note of these:

1. Never buy from an online store that do not publish their physical address or even their contact information. 

Who wants to communicate with one-named persons via email who has the habit of apologizing first why their response was delayed for 2 weeks? Where would you return the item in case it is defective? First and foremost, ensure that the identity of the online store is known, as well as its location and contact details like email and phone number.

2. Buy only from refutable sellers.

Don't hesitate to check the reputation of a seller. What do other buyers say about the seller? You can do this in eBay where the customers' feedback on the sellers are published. Personally, I don't want to buy from a seller who's reputation is below 99% positive. I also look for signs like how he responds to negative comments. If he appears rude, it's a no no. I cannot do the same with the other stores so I rely mostly on online reviews and prior experience. If you were disappointed once, don't let them give you a second serving of heartbreaks.

3. Check the fine prints. 

Look for the FAQ or similar page and pay attention to "delivery fee", "billing", "mode of payment", "guarantee", "warranty for defects", "additional charges", "cancellation of orders", "refund", "return policy", etc. Be familiar with these things. You might be surprised when you find out that you cannot return a paid item even if it arrived at your door in a damaged state.

4. Do not pay at once if you have the option to pay COD. 

Paying cash on delivery gives you the option not to pay for the item in case it is damaged. It gives you the opportunity to inspect the item, check for missing parts, and test whether it is functioning. Paying by COD also forces the delivery personnel not to leave the item to the guard or to your neighbor in case you are not at home at the time he arrives.

5. As much as possible, do not pay via Globe Gcash, SmartMoney, Western Union, credit cards, and the like. 

Better safe than sorry. I am lucky not to have been victimized by scammers but warnings are not wanting about people sending payments via the above mentioned methods and never receiving their bought items. So beware. Choose payments via bank deposit which is more secured since you have a legitimate bank account name and account number to start with. If the seller does not allow bank payment as an option to pay, better doubt and stop transacting with him. If not through bank, I pay via secure payment websites like PayPal. I pay via PayPal when I am confident that the store I am purchasing from is reliable. Be cautious also in providing your personal details. Check that you are using https and not just http. Beware also of credit card scams.

6. Keep a printed copy of your order's acknowledgment email or voucher ready. 

One time, I ordered a pink tablet of a particular brand from this tried and tested online store, COD. I was surprised when a white tablet of another brand was delivered. I did not accept it. I told the courier to return it to the store because it was not the item that I ordered. I showed him a copy of the acknowledgment email I received from the store which specified the item, color, and model of the tablet. Without the printed proof, I could have paid for the item which I did not want in the first place. If you don't have a printed copy, be ready with a screenshot of the transaction confirmation as proof.

7. Be suspicious of special discounts and promotions.

Ask yourself, "What could be the reason why the item is being sold at a cheaper price?" Is it damaged? Is it outdated? Is it an old model? Is it second hand or pre-owned or pre-loved? The reason must be clear to you. Do not buy right away if you are not given a satisfactory answer to this simple question. 

On the other hand, asking "Why is this so cheap?" fast-tracked one of my transactions. When I bought the power tools for hubby, I was attracted by its cheap price. I called the seller and asked why the price is way below the market price. She said that it was a gift they received almost 5 years ago and has been sitting in their garage in its unopened box. Since her husband is not the kind who works with tools and gets his hands dirtied, he never got the interest to use the power tools. Instead of giving it away, why not sell? Oh, okay. I did not hesitate to deposit the payment. My gut feel tells me that the person I am talking with is sincere and an honest person. It turned out her office/clinic is within our neighborhood. When I picked up the item, I learned that the tools were from the States. Of course, I inspected the box and true, it was unopened and unused. What a gem of an online find! So don't be embarrassed to ask a question.

8. Keep your line of communication open.

Let the seller know of the fastest way to contact you and vice versa. Let him know that you appreciate that he tells you in advance of any possible glitch in the delivery. Similarly, inform the seller of any observed delays but do it in a respectful manner. Avoid being nasty. Once the package arrives, check the item at once, contact the seller and inform him of any concerns. If none, don't forget to thank him for the prompt delivery of the order. You can do this via SMS, email, or by voice call. It is important to be nice so you will be valued as a customer also. Don't forget to leave a positive comment and you will be leaving a positive impression also.


These are just some of the most important things I learned so far as an online shopper. I hope these simple tips can make online buying a pleasant, painless experience for you.