2017 is going to be a good year. As mentioned in our last post, we're going to see some changes in how we do things at the ZSG. The intention, of course, it to help build your own confidence in tackling the chaos that comes with an emergency.  We were very excited to do just that last night st TELUS Spark's Adults Only Night: Off the Grid. If you're connected to us on Facebook or Twitter you would have seen the invitation to join us. It was an incredible time: lots of fun, lots of good conversations, and lots of people!

There's pictures and a summary after the jump, but for those new folks who are interested  in coming to our January Meet & Greet, here are the details: 
Date: Jan 22, 2016
Location: Pearce Estate Park (google maps)

It's been a long time. The past year (or so) has been pretty quiet here on the ZSG front. This little group has been around for almost 5 years, and we've gone through a lot. I am so excited to say that 2017 is going to be one full of adventure, high quality training, and a few surprises!  

Before I get too far, I want to take a moment to thank three guys who have consistently held down the fort for me. Bryan and Mark have both put in countless hours planning, organizing, and drinking beer with strangers in order to help this group stay around. Chris has  managedmtirelessly our social media presence on Facebook, tricking the FB algorithm more than a few times to bring good information to the masses. Thank you guys so much. Next beer is on me. 

So, what's the plan? Out with the old, in with the new! We've got a new look and a new name.  "Find The Exits" will always have a special place in my heart, but folks have been calling the group "the ZSG" almost since the beginning. You have to go with the horde, as they say!  With the name change came a new website, so take a look around, follow our *brand new* twitter account (@YYCZSG) and re-branded Facebook page (also YYCZSG), and prepare yourself for a membership renewal, aka "The Great Purge." I'll be posting some new events on meetup.com in the next few weeks, so keep your eyes on your email! 

For those of you who have just found us: hi! Whether you're interested in the zombie part, or the apocalypse part, or the training part, we're glad to have your interest! Consider putting in an application to join the team. If you want to know what we're about first, we'll be having a Meet & Greet in the next few weeks. Keep your eye on our social media to find out more, or drop me a line! 

For now: stay safe! 
-Jayme

Yesterday, to celebrate Emergency Preparedness Week, we started the conversation around Bug Out Bags, or BOBs. Useful in any emergency situation, they are as unique and special as you are. We continue today with a few more suggestions for the categories of items you might want to consider including in your BOB. 

PERSONAL COMFORT 
Having a few nice things can go a long way in managing your mental health. Items might include a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, or a nice pair of comfy socks. Photos of friends and loved ones can help keep feelings of isolation at bay, and don't take up too much room. 

In honour of Emergency Preparedness Week, we're posting a few tips and tricks to help you better plan for emergencies. 

Today, we focus on Bug Out Bags (lovingly known as BOBs) and how they can help you in an emergency situation. Bugging out is military slang that means to move away from your current location as quickly as possible and usually means your position has been compromised. A BOB is usually a backpack that contains the right gear to help you survive until you reach a specified destination. 

It's  EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WEEK in Canada! We at the ZSG hope you are staying safe and thinking proactively about what you would do in an emergency, be it the zombie apocalypse or your house catching on fire. Here is a good list of starter questions to think about as you create your plan and consider your options for survival.