Emergency Preparedness: How to Plan When Faced with a Disaster

Natural disasters and calamities occur all of a sudden. During these trying times, families suffer hardships especially when they do not have the basic necessities to survive. That is why; it is vital to have an emergency preparedness plan ready, so that you can face any disaster that strikes. Emergency Preparedness Plan How well are you prepared if there is an earthquake in your city or an unfortunate terrorist attack? Today, the dangers from natural disasters or terrorists are immense; therefore, it is our duty to prepare ourselves for the unexpected. Your survival will depend on the decisions you had taken in the past. You will understand the importance of an emergency preparedness plan when you stay informed. Be vigilant and updated about the situation; it is good to have a solar radio just in case others fail. Stock your home with the basic safety items. A first-aid kit is indispensible and also other items such as batteries, flashlight, food items such as MREs, blankets, drinking water and storage cans. In fact, it is important to make a list of the things that your need. There are survival kits available for specific disasters such as an earthquake. Emergency Preparedness for Food and Water Emergency preparedness is essential when faced with a disaster. Food and water are the basic requirements for man when a calamity strikes. Therefore, this should be given top priority. In times of crisis, you tend to drink plenty of water; hence, store enough drinking water for your family. Big food-grade plastic containers are ideal to store water. Seal them well and rotate every half yearly. As for food, stock them according to your family’s needs. However, you have to buy foods that need no refrigeration or cooking. Avoid foods that are spicy and salty as you will feel thirsty after having them. If there are babies in the family, ensure that you stock for them too. Do not forget your pets. Ensure that you have a stockpile for a month. If there is no power, which is likely, use charcoal grill or a camp stove. Earthquake Preparedness While California is prone to earthquakes, there are several other faulty zones in the U.S where major earthquakes can occur. Hence, emergency preparedness is all the more imperative in such places. Earthquake kits and supplies have to be purchased. Prepare a plan that entails evacuation details with a practical floor plan for your house. Note where you have placed the safety items, fire extinguisher and utility switches. Breakable items should be kept inside cabinets and latched. Establish priorities and make a note of important telephone numbers, names and addresses of friends and relatives. Important documents have to be stored in an incombustible safe. Identify and secure hazards such as geysers, computers and televisions. Deep cracks on walls or in the foundation should be rectified. Repair faulty electric wiring and gas leaks. Finally, educate your neighborhood too.