Being Prepared For Disasters

Mother Nature can strike at any moment, and being ready for her fury can not only help save the lives of your family and yourself, but also the lives of others. Recently there has been an increase in reports of natural disasters all over the world.

Disasters like the earthquakes in Japan and the tornadoes in Joplin, Missouri make being prepared essential to your family’s safety. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Sit your family down and have a family meeting. Discussing ways to escape from natural disasters, evacuation plans and locations of relative safety will let everyone feel included in the fight for your family’s safety. They may be able to come up with locations, plans or ideas that you haven’t thought of, and having a family meeting is the best way to make everyone aware of the family’s plan of action for disaster. Other ideas on how to be prepared for the worst can be found at places like Canada 411.

2.   Assign specific duties. Assigning duties for specific family members is a great way to help everyone get involved and feel important, as well as divvying up the responsibilities on your shoulders. Everyone should have their own task. For instance, someone should be in charge of headcount of the entire family once you reach a safe place.

3.  Write down the plan! Keeping track of exactly what your plan is for every situation is integral! Keep it where everyone can see it and knows where it is.

Preparing Your Home for Hurricanes

Satellite image of the New Year Hurricane that...

Image via Wikipedia

It’s the middle of hurricane season, and you’ll want to make sure your home is ready to go should one come your way. There are several things you can do to prepare yourself for a hurricane.

The first step is to pick up a hurricane survival guide for step-by-step directions of what to do before, during, and after a hurricane. You’ll find a list of things to buy, do around the house, and a tracking map you can use when watching your local weather reports if a hurricane comes your way.

The next step you’ll want to take is to put together a survival kit. Include water, food, first aid supplies, batteries, clothing and bedding, and tools. If you take medications, you’ll also want to make sure you have an adequate supply. Check with your doctor or pharmacist about how much you should have for your kit and how you can get the extra refill for it.

If your home does not have hurricane-standard windows, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper materials to board them up if a hurricane is coming. If you live in an evacuation zone, make sure you know the proper evacuation routes and shelters, and be prepared for where to stay. Also make sure your car is filled with gas should you have to evacuate.

It’s important to have a plan of action if a hurricane heads your way. Talk your plan over with your family so everyone is on the same page.