What a Girl Scout Can Do about Y2K

Most people are expecting a smooth changeover during the Y2K celebration. However, as Girl Scouts, we know it is best to "Be Prepared," whether we're waiting for a storm or a "millennium bug." Here are some things to do at home or with a troop or group:

1. If you have a computer, that's a good place to start. Check with the manufacturer to find out whether the model and the software is Y2K compliant. Find out what is needed to make it work in the year 2000. Most companies have online information and resources (see our links). Next, find out if any of your other electronic equipment that is run by computer will be affected and what to do about it. (See our list.)

2. Make sure your family can make it a few days without electricity and water. Sit down and draw up a list of preparations for Y2K community has some problems. Consider what you would need to keep warm, how you would cook, how much and what kind of non-perishable food you would need. How would you store water ahead of time? You might even want to lead a sample disaster drill so that your family is prepared for any glitches (like toilets that won't flush or pipes that start freezing).

3. Make a list of safety rules to follow as well. Include rules for avoiding open flames, cooking outdoors, and preventing carbon monoxide poisoning (from lack of ventilation). Discuss what to do if confronted by strangers, how to seek and give assistance, and how and when to evacuate your house in case of fire or extreme cold.

4. Make a checklist for your family to follow in December. It might include:

Renewing prescriptions Filling up water bottles Checking batteries Checking smoke alarms Keeping the gas tank full in the family car Airing out extra bedding Checking the family first-aid kit Having cash or traveler's checks on hand 5. Make a file box to help your parents organize family records for easy access. Include school records, health records and dental records, insurance records, current financial statements, owners manuals for electronic equipment, etc.

6. With your parents, put together a kit that has supplies you'll need for a power failure. Include flashlights, extra batteries, covered candles, matches, and a portable radio with batteries.

7. Volunteer to help distribute information about emergency shelters and emergency preparedness. Check with your local Red Cross, city or community government, and places of worship for emergency plans.

8. Encourage the neighbors on your block or in your building to be prepared. Distribute information, and make emergency plans on what to do if power should go out in your building or neighborhood. Who has fireplaces and would be willing to share their heat? Where are the shelters? Who will need help because they are older, have a disability, or have small children?

9. After you have learned what to do in your own home, share the knowledge you have gained. Help others evaluate their households and small businesses, or help them find assistance in your community. Volunteer at your Red Cross or civil defense department.

10. Make posters about Y2K for distribution in your community. They might include messages like:

Electricity out? Think Smart. Dont cook indoors with charcoal or propane. Need help? Heres where to find it (list local emergency sites). Need a Y2K buddy? Well check on you if the lights go out. Need an emergency kit for Y2K? Heres a checklist http://www.girlscouts.org/girls/Why/Y2K/Y2K.htm

-- G Bailey (glbailey1@excite.com), November 21, 1999

Answers

You just know that the KOS has his finger hovering over the "Contribute an answer" button...

-- squid (Itsdark@down.here), November 22, 1999.

I was pleased to see the Girl Scout page when I was doing the section on Children and Y2k for my website . When doing the research, I couldn't find a single web page on Boy Scout efforts. Anyone know any?

-- Firemouse (firemouse@fcmail.com), November 22, 1999.