Contributed by Debra McGhan
In 2020 we all watched our country shut down completely. The supply chains are still a mess. Our food security remains at risk. And indications remain strong, this can easily happen again. Living in Alaska means preparedness is even more vital than in other parts of the US. Procrastination is not your friend. Ask Lawrence Agosti and his riding partners.
In the spring of 2019, Agosti and his pals set out on the Kenai Peninsula for a day of snowmobile riding. They were familiar with the area and Agosti felt confident he could handle anything that might come their way. But he put off checking his survival supplies and ended up forgetting to do that all together. His in-action nearly cost his life and those of his friends.
Agosti realized they survived only because they are a strong team. “We kept encouraging each other and we kept a positive attitude. When I was ready to give up, Ben kept me going. Mark knew some arctic survival skills and we were able to improvise with the few things we did have to stay alive.”
He also understands the decisions you make when out riding with others will affect everyone in your group and potentially your family and community. Having a positive attitude is critical.
“We got through this because we helped each other and we stayed focused on surviving. I hope we all learned something from this so we never have to spend another night out like this again. I know for sure I’ll check my survival gear from now on. And I’ll be prepared with the simplest things like a flint and steel, hot packs and a survival blanket for each person.”
Every year the Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Mountain Rescue Group and other professional agencies and organizations respond to dozens of search and rescue calls when people find themselves in situations they are not prepared to handle.
If you love to ski, board, sled, hike, ride snowmachines, dog mush, fish, climb, boat or otherwise get out to explore this beautiful state, you owe it to your family and friends to make sure you are prepared.
September is National Emergency Preparedness month. And we know, Alaska truly delivers a land of big adventures, wild open spaces and vulnerable to a host of potential disasters and emergencies. Ask yourself, are you ready? Do you have an up-to-date emergency kit in your car? Do you have enough food and water for yourself and your family for at least three days? Are you prepared to treat a medical emergency if you are the only one there to help?
If you answered no to any of those questions, or maybe you’re not sure, you should plan to attend the free 14th annual Emergency Preparedness Expo at the Menard Sports Center. This event is made possible thanks to Mat-Su Borough Emergency Services, Alaska Safe Riders, Local Emergency Planning Committee, American Red Cross, AARP Alaska and the City of Wasilla.
This year Iron Dog champions Tyler Aklestad and Chris Olds, along with other professionals, will be on hand to share tips and tricks to help you enjoy great experiences exploring Alaska. Scouts 2359/359 will be demonstrating how to put together a safe campsite. Or go on a scavenger hunt to learn, get prepared and earn a chance for two round-trip tickets on Alaska Railroad.
This event is completely free and the first 100 guests will receive an emergency preparedness gift bag thanks to AARP Alaska and other great sponsors.
The popular youth Poster Contest, for everyone 5 to 18 years-old, invites youth to draw a picture and show what being prepared for disasters and emergencies means to them. All entries receive a free ice cream thanks to McDonalds. People’s Choice Award top winner in five age groups receive a gift card thanks to the Mat Valley Federal Credit Union, a three-day emergency back pack thanks to American Red Cross and a community service award presented by the Mat-Su Borough Assembly.
If you enjoy exploring Alaska or just want your home to remain a safe, cozy haven even in the worst of times, don’t put off getting prepared. Mark your calendar and plan to attend the 14th annual Emergency Preparedness Expo on Saturday, September 24, 2022 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Menard Sports Center in Wasilla. Learn more at www.ready.matsugov.us