Honey? Have you seen my socks?

They're in your 72 hour kit!
Okay, maybe your only pair of socks should not be in your 72 hour kit.  However, socks are a great item to add! 

This week we want to work on adding or updating the clothing items set aside for that emergency dash out the door kit.

Hopefully you have been working on your "go bags" all along and have started to compile items for an emergency.  The earthquake this week has grabbed the attention of many and caused us to evaluate our preparation level.  Have faith over fear and continue to work toward your goal of readiness.  Beware of false rumors that cause panic and find comfort and calm in being as ready as possible.  Check on your family and neighbors, buoy each other up and remember that prayers are often answered by the actions of another.   

If you are observing the beginning of the 5k, taking Baby Steps... add a pair of socks & underwear.  Dry and clean socks and underwear are usually the first thing needed as well as the most overlooked.  As you build incentive to join the runners, try also adding a knit hat and a pair of those one size fits all knit gloves.  You know the ones... they look like they are for a 3 year old, till you put them on and lo and behold, they fit teens and most adults too!

For the 5k whether you are  walking fast or picking up the pace, now is a good time to check the clothing items in your kits.  Are they seasonal?  Are they the correct size?  Does your 16 year old still have a 3T in theirs?   Time to analyze and update!  Add or update items that are suitable to last a while.  Elastic waist "sweats" a size too large will be okay for a couple of years and still wearable a little loose or a little tight.  Chances are we will be wearing something when we evacuate, so a change to wear while washing or repairing is what to think about.  Even if evacuated while wearing jammies, sweats can be work clothes or sleepwear.  Very versatile.  We don't necessarily need to have fancy, heavy work clothing in our kits.  Consider your own and your family needs and add accordingly.  Think about options for sleeping bag, blanket or a bivy.

For the Marathon runners, some suggestions might be to not only update clothing items, add extra footwear, leather gloves, a few bandanas, sewing kit, and some extra fabric if you so desire.  Consider adding a heavier sleeping bag, camp pillow and a tarp.