Emergency Procedures Checklist

I was running with Supermodel this morning.  It's getting darker and colder.  We run on the rural outskirts of our small town at the base of spectacularly beautiful mountains.  When we mountain bike we obviously venture into the foothills, although the darkness is bringing an end to our early, weekday morning rides.

There are bears and cougars in our area - which is neat - they were here first.  I don't want to encounter one while riding or running though.  When Supermodel and I were riding this summer I wanted to discuss our plan in case one of us (me) was attacked by a bear or cougar.  Unlikely, but it could happen.  She didn't take me seriously, so I discussed at her on every ride, reminding her what she should do if there was an animal on me, and where to find my cell phone in the bike pack so she could call the medics.  She never seemed concerned about how I would handle her attack, probably because I was clearly on top of the situation by initiating these conversations.

When Dad was here a few weeks ago, we saw bear scat (we think) exactly where Supermodel and I ride.  My next ride with Supermodel, I said we really must review again what to do in the event of a bear or cougar attack.  I reviewed at her.

I carried a flashlight this morning when we ran, and wore flashing lights on my chest and back.  The flashlight helps us see potholes, and dead animals in the road (I almost fell into a deer carcass last year without my flashlight - true), but most importantly, the tiny, high beam light allows me to investigate any rustle in the bushes - so we can prepare for an attack.  I attempted to review the attack procedures this morning.  I'm not convinced Supermodel's listening.

I was a tech editor at an airline for many years.  Pilots live by procedures and checklists.  I told Supermodel that I would make us a pocket-sized checklist so we wouldn't have to think about what we're supposed to do in the event of an attack.  Experienced and accomplished pilots routinely use FAA approved checklists.  I would create a CAR (Christina Ann Ross) approved checklist.

For you Supermodel:

And for me:

Chris reminded me this morning that I don't need to be faster than the bear or cougar, just faster than the other guy.