Preparedness Poll Results

Thanks to all who responded to my recent poll. Your interest and input are greatly appreciated. Based on twenty responses, here are the results:

1) I view preparedness as…
a. something for conspiracy theorists and Boy Scouts—0%
b. something I’m actively working towards—55%
c. important but haven’t gotten around to it—45%
d. unimportant—0%

2) I have this much drinkable water stored:
a. none—45%
b. 1 to 3 days—30%
c. 4 days to 2 weeks—20%
d. more than 2 weeks—5%

3) I keep a flashlight within reach of my bed: Yes—55% or No—45%

4) I have the means and know-how to make drinkable water: Yes—35% or No—65%

5) Thinking about preparedness makes me feel...
a. nervous, I don’t like to think about bad things happening—0%
b. unprepared, I know I should prepare but haven’t—50%
c. indifferent, I’ll be taken care of regardless of my efforts or lack thereof—15%
d. confident, I’m doing what I can—35%

6) I have this much non-perishable food stored…
a. not sure, whatever’s on my shelves—65%
b. 3 days—10%
c. 4 days to 2 weeks—20%
d. more than 2 weeks—5%

7) I carry some basic preparedness items (Swiss Army knife, small flashlight, First Aid supplies, etc.), other than a cell phone, daily: Yes—50% or No—50%

8) I try to fill up my car’s gas tank…
a. never, I don’t use a car—5%
b. when the “low gas” light comes on—15%
c. when the tank hits half full (half empty?)—65%
d. whenever I remember to do it—15%

9) I have an evacuation/get out of town bag ready to go: Yes—15% or No—85%

Surprised by the responses? Surprised by your responses? Check back soon for some reflections on the poll. In the meantime, I’d like to hear your Comments.

Update & New Arrival

Thanks for all who've weighed in on the preparedness poll! I've still had a few people responding this week, so I'll give it a couple more days then post the results.

Also, I was going to continue the Building Tangible Margin series with a multi-part entry on Heading Out/Evacuating. In light of the recent fire on the CTA, it occured to me that we should go back to basics and look at Every Day Carry first. There are a couple of very basic items I always carry in my bag that would've come in very handy in those circumstances. Stay tuned for that in the very near future.

And last but not least, there are just some things you're never completely prepared for...


Meet my son, Gabriel Jude. Born June 23rd and doing very well. A daughter and a son both--I am a blessed man.