Prepare, Prepared, Preparedness
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As a volunteer communications writer for the Red Cross, I was tasked with writing a quick article to remind everyone to be prepared for emergencies and disasters… just in case. So I thought I’d share.
Natural events and disasters are never in the plan, but you can certainly be prepared for them. Being prepared helps to insure your family’s safety before, during and after an emergency. In the aftermath of 9-11, FEMA launched September as National Preparedness Month. The Red Cross has been helping folks prepare and be aware ever since.
Five Quick Tips to Prepare for an Emergency
1. Prepare two emergency kits for you and your family
One kit should be for sheltering in place and the second should be a ‘grab and go’ bag in case you need to evacuate in a hurry. Must-haves in both kits include food, water, flashlight with batteries, cell phones and chargers, medicines, basic first aid kit, important documents, cash, appropriate clothing and any special needs for family members and/or pets.
2. Know the natural disaster risks in your particular area and how to prepare for them.
Here in Nevada, earthquakes, wildfires and flash flooding are our main natural disaster concerns. In your area, it might be these and/or hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, tsunamis or maybe even volcano eruptions that you need to be ready for. House fires, however, can occur any place and at any time. There are ~1,000 house fires a day in the United States.
3. Create an escape plan.
Whether you need to escape from a blazing fire in your home or evacuate from your town, have an escape route planned and ready to execute. Make sure your family knows the plan.
4. Keep your home safe.
Install smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your home and check them regularly. Keep your yard clear of brush, debris and flammables.
5. Communication is key.
Have emergency contact numbers close at hand. Know where to get current local information about a disaster. Sign up for emergency phone alerts from your local government.
This is only a quick reference guide to start you on your ‘preparedness journey’. The Red Cross offers several apps and website articles that provide detailed instructions that can help you prepare and be prepared for disasters and emergencies. Here are a couple to get you started:
Red Cross website article - How to Prepare for Emergencies
