Hurricane Helene and "Stay Safe"

I call Hurricanes Boris Trump   They are out of control.

People write and say "stay safe".  That's a lovely sentiment, but in truth none of us are promised complete safety. We all live in a world in which random or planned events might come our way and destroy our illusions of guaranteed safety.

"Be Prepared" -  that's the best we can do. So I've learned in the eighteen years I've lived in Florida.

I have an emergency box which contains a battery operated lantern; flashlights/torches; a "miners" head lamp -  more useful than a flashlight/torch when two hands are needed; and a propane fueled Camping stove.

I have adequate supplies of food - enough not only for the duration, but also for the following days when supermarkets may still be closed. Many are foods which can be eaten cold.  

The greatest risks come from winds; from flooding; and from the tornados which are sometimes spawned by these storm.**

I'm far enough inland that major flooding is unlikely.  There will be street flooding of course.  There's nowt I can do about 65mph winds and tornadoes! 

A big "what if" has to do with the potential loss of power  - perhaps for days, and widespread, Many business may be closed.

To prepare for that possibility I filled my petrol tank this morning; got an extra supply of dog food; and withdrew cash from an ATM/Cashpoint.

If power is off there could be no running water so I have four one-gallon bottles of water.  Essential to make Coffee (!); for Cooper; and to brush my teeth and wash my face and hands.

Oddly enough -  a bathtub filled water,  and a bucket with which to flush the loo.

Outdoor trash/recycling bins; and potted plants must be brought indoors -  they could become dangerous flying projectiles.

If power is off I have a battery/mains/windup radio. 

 I can charge my phone in the car (and have an air conditioning splurge while I'm at it).

** Many of you have been on my so-called lanai.  In truth it is a screened in porch, with "windows" made with mylar. It's a rickety place. 

Cooper has gashed the Mylar in his attempts to drive strangers away,

My good neighbour Cheney, using his amateur skill and expertise (!) has fixed the gashes for now with Duct Tape. What else!

The Porch is safe from the storms for now.

For now?    Maybe.

Wednesday and Thursday will reveal all.

So please do not pray for my safety, without praying for the safety of the millions in Helene's possible passage.

And be grateful for the vigilant and well prepared emergency services,