Just taking a minute to put this up before we bail. In a non-rushed fashion, obviously as I've got some time to post for you all!:)
We're getting a live run trial of our bug out equipment. A BC Hydro power relay right near our home has caught fire, (In Chilliwack), and a large portion of the Valley is out of power. BC Hydro says 8 hours to 2 days to power up and get us all running again.
The big black cloud coming from the station? Allegedly is burning generator fuel. So we've tossed our bags in the jeep and we're headed out for at least a day! Will keep you all posted via IPad and stolen wireless signals!
Update,
Were staying at the inlaws about 40 kilometers upwind of the substation fire. According to the local news radio, residents of Chilliwack have been advised to remain indoors with the doors and windows closed, and TURN OFF our furnaces!
More information can be found Between the BC Hydro and Star FM radio websites. Not sure yet what exactly the damage is, or what is burning but apparently local authorities are conducting air quality tests.
As for the smooth operation of the bug out, I definitely found a few kinks in the system. Missing things, critical items that weren't packed etc.
FV_Armouries:
Good thing you've bugged out, up wind. That's pretty scary stuff burning off that substation!
I immediately googled: transformer fire toxins, and came up with many reasons to take flight from that situation:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transformer_oil
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3925096
http://www.kdvr.com/news/kdvr-substation-fire-toxic-smoke-txt,0,5542287.story
Looking forward to you telling us what 'kinks' you need to iron out of your evac plan.
Take care,
DD
Definitely interested in hearing how this panned out for you!
Made it home late last night and was up early today for work. Finally had some dinner, got the baby down, and have some time to post:)
We obviously stayed longer than was really necessary, but was able to do some really cool little experiments on my long weekend.
As for kinks - the biggest was that it probably took me about half an hour after hearing about the incident, to decide to go, then figure out exactley where I should go. I suddenly realized that although my gear is in fairly good condition and readiness, lots of my actual plans are very rough draft.
Upon arriving at our destination, I also realized that I had only about a quarter tank of gas after only traveling 40 kliks. Keep it topped up!
We obviously had access to electricity, heat and plenty of food (Mother in law is a bakery manager), we did efficiently utilize a rationing of snacks and bottled water.
I also did a combined experiment of sleep deprivation and minimal calorie intake. Why? Because I was curious I suppose:) Although I was a little shocked at how durable the body is under those conditions, it made me aware of some shortfalls in my physical fitness, unused muscle groups and all:) Haha.
Anyways, all in all I think it was the experiment I needed to make just to put my mind a little more at ease. Not perfect, but it's something:D