Survival tips and home hacks for resource-strapped Tennessee flood victims

When disaster strikes, resources are essential, as is ingenuity, especially if you find yourself isolated as thousands were when catastrophic flooding swept through East Tennessee after Hurricane Helene end of September.

Scott Fisher, founder and instructor of the Nolichucky Outdoor Learning Institute, shared with Knox News some of the survival tips he teaches that could be vital for flood victims, as well as some ingenious home hacks that could help you survive the collapse of critical infrastructure, communications and supplies.

What remains of where the institute’s outpost once stood is in Erwin on the Nolichucky River, one of three rivers hardest hit by flooding that killed at least five people in Tennessee.

“We have lived, worked and played right on this river for decades,” Fisher said of his staff at the institute. “We have a great connection with the river and the community, so this has been a very difficult thing for all of us to deal with.”

Note: Not all of the tips below apply to everyone, as flood victims have varying access to electricity, transportation, and resources.

Don’t underestimate these obvious, sometimes difficult tips

Fisher acknowledges that one of his most important pieces of advice may seem “a little Pollyannaish.”

“The reality is maintain a positive attitude is the most important way to overcome these difficulties,” he said, adding that it is important to fight against complacency and to “stay active in your own survival.”

Also, don’t bite off more than you can chew.

“A lot of injuries that happen in these types of emergency situations happen after the fact, and that’s because people are eager to help and do something, and then they forget to take precautions on their own.” , Fisher said.

Wear clothing and equipment appropriate to the situation

You should assume that any contact with flood waters could pose a biological risk, Fisher said, suggesting people wear long pants and long sleeves when you’re out and about.

In addition to their potential toxicity, bodies of water can contain hidden debris that could harm you. Fisher suggests people wear work gloves if you are searching through floodwaters or debris, as well as an N95 mask.

“I spent the last three days in recovery operations and my lungs still feel it,” he said. “And I’m sure other first responders are too because these are toxic, toxic environments.”

When it comes to staying warm, he said: wool and fleece retain heat when wet.

Beyond Clothing, Other Ways to Stay Warm When Temperatures Drop

While clothes are the first line of defense against the cold, Fisher said, you might be surprised how much a candle can warm up a room.

But it is important first make sure your house is closed and not exposed to the elements from storm damage. You want to use something waterproof like a tarp, space blanket, or contractor-grade trash bag.

“Contractor Grade Trash Bags: They’re a survivor’s dream because you can use them to insulate yourself from cold, damp ground” Fisher said.

Place insulating materials (cloths, sheets, etc.) in a contractor-grade trash bag, and you have yourself a mattress.

“I know we had a flood and it was a little wet, but it was so dry for so long before the flood, people should still be able to find dry wood (for a fire)” Fisher said.

It is also important to stay hydrated, he said, because “it allows our metabolic function to work as it should and it will help us stay warm.”

Remember: Blankets are your friends.

How to Generate Lots of Light in Your Home

There’s a reason Fisher and his Army buddies called a bonfire “Ranger TV.” There’s something nice about sitting around a light with loved ones, and it’s important to keep a good headspace in these emergency situations.

“One of the things people often face is when the lights go out, the bogeyman comes out,” Fisher said.

Anyone able to visit a store like Walmart or Home Depot can buy battery-powered disc-shaped lights that can be stuck to walls.

Something like this.

“Put a bunch of them in the house,” Fisher said.

If the lights run on AA batteries and you only have triples, a foil can be placed on one end of an AAA battery to work in AA gadgets.

Use flashlights in the dark, And wrapping a headlamp around a jug of water to light up a room like a lantern.

Need water? How to boil for safety, plus other options

Area communities are under boil water advisories. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention boiling is the best way to rid water of disease-causing organisms before drinking.

While some sources say a 5-minute boil is necessary to clear the water, Fisher said, wilderness medicine guidelines state that it is safe to drink the moment it boils.

He suggests somewhere in the middle: Bring the water to a boil for at least one minute.

Can’t boil water? Bleach is a legitimate disinfectant for drinking water provided that precise ratios are used (see below).

The US Army Reserve suggests:

“If the water is cloudy, filter it with clean cloths or allow it to settle then remove the clear water to disinfect it.”
“Add 1/8 teaspoon (or 8 drops) of regular, unscented liquid bleach to every gallon of water. Stir well and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before using.”
“Store disinfected water in clean containers with lids.”

Ryan Wilusz is the publisher of business growth and development. Phone 865-317-5138. Email [email protected]. Instagram @knoxscruff.