National Preparedness Month Tips

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Are you prepared in case of an emergency? Image courtesy of usu.edu

September is National Preparedness Month. This year is critical, taking into consideration everyone’s battle with Covid -19 and the Delta variant. Yet, according to FEMA, only 75 % of Americans have disaster supplies in their home, and less than 50% created a household emergency plan. In addition, 2021 has encountered enormous and numerous challenges, like tropical storms, flash floods, earthquakes, and heatwaves. Learning to protect yourself is the wisest step to safeguard the community and recover faster from a disaster. Here are some recommendations: 

A- Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. 

B- Collect and create a paper copy of the contacts information for your family, including doctors and make sure everyone has it with them all the time. You may post on different locations at home.              

C- Chose a safe and familiar place for emergency meetings, not just in the house, in the neighborhood shelter, even outside of the city in case of a significant situation. 

D- Gather supplies that will last for several days for everyone at home, including your pets, water, food, medication, flashlights, First Aid Kit, whistle (to signal got help), and mask. Take into consideration the unique needs each person may have in case of an emergency evacuation. Plan the evacuation route. 

E- Be aware of the risks of disasters in your area, and make your house safe accordingly. 

F- Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies. And practice what to do if you get separated during any disaster events, selecting a clear meeting place.  

And last, but very important, check your insurance coverage. 

Written by Nury Cardoza