YMCA sponsoring survival ‘Bug Out’

YMCA information

Need to learn more about how to survive in an emergency?  The YMCA of Van Wert County has the weekend planned for you. The YMCA’s Camp Clay facility will be hosting the first ever “Bug Out” Weekend October 5-7 at 9196 Liberty Union Road east of Van Wert.

As local residents learned when the recent windstorm emergencies hit without warning, they may not be as prepared as they think to keep their families safe and ready. Come learn what resources are available and what one can do to be prepared to meet one’s family’s needs in an emergency. No need to pre- register, just go out to Camp Clay and ask for Clint.

Participants can either camp for the entire weekend or just come out for the seminars. Camping is $20 per adult, $10 per child, $40 for a whole family for the weekend, with Friday and Sunday bonus classes not available to the public. Primitive skills demonstration, inexpensive food storage, bug-out bag, a visit to an off-grid home to see a fully-functioning, self-providing solar home and lots of community talk time.

Learn and share opinions on all kinds of topics. This is a great way to network with others.  Showers, firewood, indoor restrooms, and catch-and-release fishing are available. No electrical or sewer hookup (it’s a bug out!). Participants have to provide all their own power via generators, solar, batteries or just do without.

The public is welcome to camp at these rates. Or for those who would just like to come for the seminars, Saturday only is the day for them.  The public is invited from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at the cost of $5 each, kids 12 years of age and under free. Guest speakers will be as follows:

• 10 a.m. – Mark Klausing from the American Red Cross Disaster relief Committee. Q&A
• 11 a.m. – Sheriff-elect Tom Riggenbach: legal rights of homeowners during emergencies and suggestions.
• 1 p.m. – County Director of Homeland Security Rick McCoy: Assets and timeframes for local threats. Q&A
• 2 p.m. – Van Wert Mayor Don Farmer. Town-hall type meeting to ask questions about Van Wert preparedness for different emergencies.
• 3 p.m. – Inexpensive long-term food storage
• 4 p.m. – Bug Out Bag (in case one has have to leave home)

“We do not know what kind of emergencies are going to hit us,” said Clint Myers, Camp Clay facilitator. “We do know that ice storms, blizzards, tornados, and wind have caused major power outages just in my lifetime.

“That is why, with some minimal preparations, you can ensure you and your family are safe and ready for what may come our way,” he added.

More information can be found at www.vwymca.org. The YMCA of Van Wert County is partially funded by The Van Wert County Foundation and United Way of Van Wert County.