72-Hour Kits

We often get discouraged about planning for different crises, because we think it involves too much work or preparation. Maybe we get overwhelmed by all we think would be involved. However, some basic emergency preparedness things don't involve too much work, but would be very valuable if you ever needed it.

A 72-hour kit would give you everything you'd need for a three-day period. Chances are, if a catastrophe strikes, it won't be Armageddon. Being prepared to survive  for three days can keep you alive or in good condition until you are able to be located or saved. It doesn't have to be catastrophe either. Sometimes we find ourselves needing to stretch a few extra days until payday. Using the food/items we packed in the 72-hour kit can meet our needs until we get paid.

The best website I have seen for guiding you through the process building your own 72-hour kit is www.72hours.org. There, you will find all sorts of helpful information to help you prepare your kit.

It's a small thing, but it can go a long way.

Where is my money going?

One aspect of emergency preparedness involves the household finances. Sometimes we get to the end of a paycheck cycle or month and find ourselves wondering where all of money went. While the above comic strip may have a more pessimistic view on tracking the household expenses, it can save individuals a significant amount of money.

Today we want to highlight a very important budgeting tool for a household's financial success and preparation. This "Where is my money going?" calculator provides a way for you to keep tabs on where your money is going.

Why using this calculator can help:

• If we know where our money is going, we'll know if we are overspending.
• If we know what our money is being spent on, we know where we can make changes.
• If we make those changes, we can save money to reach financial goals such as paying off loans or other obligations more quickly.

Click here to try it out!

2012 MUNCIE COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS FAIR

What: Muncie Community Preparedness Fair

When: Saturday, September 15, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: In Heartland Hall at the Delaware County Fairgrounds

Cost: FREE!

The Muncie Community Preparedness Fair is an annual event that gives members of the Muncie community an opportunity to learn helpful skills and information to use in times of crisis - whether a community crisis or a personal one. The fair will include demonstrations, a blood drive, and informational booths on 72-hour kits, pet care, employment, preparing family/children for emergencies and more!