Steve Lyston | Survival in disaster

It is critical to understand times and seasons and what to do in a particular season. Preparation is the key to survival. It is not if we are going to have a disaster, it is when. Understanding the significance of the number nine in 2019 is critical. Haggai 1: 11 reveals to us that there will be drought upon the land.

Natural disasters come in many forms and include floods, fires, tornadoes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tidal waves, tsunamis, landslides, monsoons, hurricanes, cyclones and many other systems. Not being properly prepared for survival in any of these circumstances can lead to death, starvation, riots and total economic collapse. When the nation is given bulletins, there is no in-depth information given on how to survive during and after the disaster, especially if a disaster should occur suddenly. For example, some will say that we are to have water, cash and food for up to three days for each person. But what happens to the poor who don't even have one meal per day? My point is, we need to know how to use the natural resources we have around us daily to save lives.

Things you should know

The styrofoam boxes and even the disposable plates, cups and other such containers can be used to make floating devices by tying them in a plastic bag or backpack, and that can become your personal floating device in a flood.

You can also use any pants as a floating device by tying the foot of the pants together, and flap it to get air in it and then tying the waist. Although it is not as easy to do as other things, nothing beats trying.

Minimising the use of plastic in our society today is not a bad idea, but the timing is wrong, because we are going to need all these plastic items for safety and security in times of disaster. The plastic is not the major part of the problem - it is our discipline to dispose of the plastic items properly.

Tree stumps can be kept instead of destroying them, because both tree stumps and logs float in the water.

Always have a flashlight and a few batteries.

Always have your things in order and in one place in case you have to make a hasty retreat. For example, your shoes, your keys, your medication, a packed bag/suitcase, your dentures and any other personal items should be together so it is easy to grab and go.

Never forget, when danger comes, listen to the still, small voice - the Holy Spirit; and never forget Psalm 91 and Psalm 121, as well as Jeremiah 33:3. Call upon his name - it works!

In a fire, the key thing is to have a wet towel or wet clothes over your nose to protect your lungs from smoke. The smoke is often more dangerous than the fire itself. Also, stay close to the ground. Don't run through a door, because you don't know what is happening on the other side.

Have all your important papers in one place at all times, and, if possible, in a fireproof container.

Things to have at all times

Bleach, lime juice, baking soda, salt, honey, skimmed milk powder, canned goods, rope, water filter (if no there is no filter, keep sand and a large enough piece of white cloth to strain the water). Also, have shovels to dig and matches and lighters.

Boil the water for three minutes and add six drops of chlorine bleach per gallon of water and wait for 30 minutes before drinking.

To preserve meat, salt it and smoke it by placing it over a low fire.

Where you don't have cash, try the barter system. Offer to give something in exchange for what you need.

In case of a tsunami, head to higher ground. If you are in traffic, abandon the car and run.

You can also make your own baby wipes by using almond oil, olive oil, soap and warm water.

Also remember that honey, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, peanuts, granola and crackers cannot be spoiled.

In an earthquake, head for open spaces if your building is not safe and you don't have refuge within.

Knowledge is power.

- Steve Lyston is a biblical economics consultant and author of several books, including 'End Time Finance' and 'The New Millionaire'.