Information About Disaster Planning
Disaster planning and being prepared for any crisis, whether it is financial, or from a hurricane, flood, fire, earthquake or many other hazards, is one of the most important tasks you need to complete for you and your family. There are many tools available to help you prepare for many unexpected disasters that you may encounter. There are many basic steps that you can take to help you in your disaster planning. First, and foremost, one of the most important steps you should take is to get informed about the hazards that are relevant to your particular geographic location. Consultants from your local emergency management offices can help, or you can contact your local branch of the American Red Cross. They will be able to give you information about food storage, emergency tools and accessories, and safety precautions. They will also be able to give you a list of classes and seminars being held in your area to help you decide how you should prepare your family and neighbors for your potential disasters. The next step you should take is to inform and teach your family of your plan. Post the emergency contact phone numbers, and explain when each should be used. Teach your family members how to turn off the home utilities such as water, gas, and electricity. Find a class to train you and your family members how to administer CPR, and other first aid procedures should the need arise. Also learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Disaster Supplies should also be stored in a portable backpack or suitcase, and in an area that is easily accessible for kids to reach. Emergency kits can be purchased as a whole unit, or you can assemble one yourself. A basic disaster kit should include a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable, battery operated radio with extra batteries, first aid kits, credit card and cash, waterproof matches, signal flares, a map of your area, diapers (if applicable), a fresh change of clothes, prescription medications, personal hygiene items, and key food items such as canned, ready to eat fruit and meat, trail mix, protein bars, and dried foods, enough to last about 72 hours. Each person in the family should have their own emergency supplies kit tailored to their age or their own personal needs. This will help each person to be able to cope with the crisis at hand. |