West DFW News

In a recent family letter, a former police officer and Texas State Guard member shared insights on disaster preparedness. The timing of the letter coincides with National Preparedness Month.

"I promise I'm not a prepper but…" began the letter, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Drawing from personal experiences during Hurricane Harvey and winter storm Uri, the author stressed the potential consequences of being unprepared.

"I have always advised preparation," the author noted, citing their background in law enforcement and emergency response. "Deployed around the state during Hurricane Harvey and other destructive storms, I have seen first-hand the impact."

The letter highlighted various risks, including natural disasters and security threats. The author referenced a statement from an FBI Director: "I've never seen a time where all the threats or so many of the threats are all elevated, all at exactly the same time."

Practical advice was provided to help families prepare for emergencies. Recommendations included keeping mobile phones' location services active, having backup meeting locations, storing several months' worth of food and essential medications, learning basic first aid and self-defense techniques, and ensuring vehicles are fueled.

"Think about the medicines you may need," urged the author. They also suggested having tourniquets available: "Learn some basic first aid… Buy some tourniquets."

Additional tips covered maintaining situational awareness, using whistles for safety, carrying hand tasers, keeping extra fuel and propane tanks at home, considering portable generators for power outages, and storing emergency cash.

"The key here is plain common sense," concluded the author. They emphasized focusing on basic necessities rather than trying to prepare for every possible scenario.

The letter also touched on faith: "For those of us who follow Christ… God gives us wisdom and He expects us to act with prudence."