The EDC acronym may not be one you are familiar with, but I would encourage everybody, especially boaters and builders, to think about some of these suggestions.
I have recently had articles here on Mad Mariner discussing tools and workshop spaces.
Today, I want to mention those tools you always have at hand. No, not a toolbag in the garage or car trunk, but actually on your person.
People carry things from nothing (most common) to firearms and hunting knives. The extremes are probably not appropriate for most of us, but many times, if people have a few handy tools around, emergencies are much easier dealt with, and just day-to-day work is simplified.
Sometimes people kid me about the things I carry, but often, those kidders are the first to come to me when they need something fixed. Cell phone and Blackberry are de-rigor in the tech world, but I always also have a flashlight on my belt, along with a "multitool." A backup flashlight is usually in a pocket, along with a pair of folding scissors and a pocketknife. A decent writing pen and a pocket screwdriver are in the shirt pocket.
All of this can fit in, discretely, in a suit-and-tie environment. Few people realize I have things with me unless I pull a tool out and use it.
I usually have a computer bag/brief case with me which carries "overflow"... obviously the computer and files, but also a small multi-tip screwdriver, a few small trash bags, wipes and even some surgical/exam gloves.
My most used item is the small flashlight. People wonder why, but have you ever needed to crawl under your desk to connect a computer cable? Dropped a coin in a dark spot? Lost something under the seat of your car? All these mundane happenings are much easier solved with a little light available. This leaves out the "emergency" uses during a power outage or leaking stuffing box or some disaster scenario.
The multitool is used less in the office environment (although it can be quite handy with computer connections, etc.). Doing maintenance around the house or boat is another matter. Often I can fix my problem with what is on my belt without going off to the shop to find a screwdriver or pliers.
If you are cruising or working around your boat, having a tool "at hand" can often save a lot of trouble. Once you have crawled into some tight space and then realized you don't have a tool, if you can reach to your belt and make do, it can be a back saver.
Yes, I am probably more "equipped" than many of you desire to be, but I would encourage you to consider the basics of what you have available.
Even if its making sure that your car has a good flashlight and some basic tools to deal with a flat, then you are that much better prepared.
There are online message boards and groups that flashlight and EDC aficionado's hang out in... look them up and see what some of the real dedicated types can manage to haul around:
