By Jean Ince
Ice storms, tornados, floods, earthquakes…all are potential natural disasters. Most of us can remember a time when we were without electricity, water, and heat for days due to a natural disaster. Living in the south, it is bound to happen at some point. Are you prepared in the event a natural disaster happens?
Being aware and prepared for potential disasters includes understanding the threats and taking actions to protect your family members and friends, pets, livestock and properties. So, how can you prepare yourself and your family for these events? Here are some suggestions.
- Make a plan. First and foremost, put together an emergency plan. Work with your family and neighbors to make an emergency plan for the types of disasters that can affect you. Make sure everyone in your family understands where to go and what to do in case of an emergency. You can download an easy-to-use planning guide at www.ready.gov.
- Assemble an emergency kit. Your emergency kit should fit your family’s needs. Basic items to include are water (1 gallon/day/person), at least three day’s worth of nonperishable food, first aid supplies and prescription medicines, flashlights, battery powered radio, clothing, blankets, insect repellent, personal hygiene supplies, cash, emergency contact numbers.
- Update contact information. Having accurate records for family, friends and neighbors will help you stay in contact and may possibly help those in need. Make sure you have up-to-date phone numbers.
- Check your insurance policy. It is recommended to review your insurance policies annually and make any necessary changes. When a disaster strikes, you want to know that your coverage will be available.
- Plan your purchases. You can save money by thinking ahead. Don’t buy preparedness items just before a storm when they are expensive and supplies will be in high demand. Buy items when they are on sale and throughout the year.
- Have extra blankets and sleeping bags. If you lose power due to a winter storm, you will need extra blankets and a way to stay warm. Stay in one room as much as possible and dress as warmly as you can. If you must use an alternative heat source (fireplace or gas heater), make sure it is ventilated to the outside. DO NOT use charcoal briquettes or grills inside your house.
- Keep your car prepared. Keep a full tank of gas, blankets, shovel and emergency food in your car, but stay off the roads if you can. If you must drive, let someone know where you are going and what route you are taking and what time you plan to be back.
- Stay indoors. Stay inside as much as you can. If you must go outside, wear layers of clothing instead of a single heavy coat; this will keep you warmer and drier. Wear gloves or mittens, hats and scarves to prevent loss of body heat.