Are You Ready?
The billboards have been around since 2009. I am just starting to notice. They give a shout out to disaster preparedness. Some are disconcerting in their directness, showing folks wearing gas masks and families with backpacks, ready to escape.
The national emergency preparedness awareness campaign is sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security. But state and local emergency management agencies are also sounding the alarm. And the message is clear -- those who are prepared for a disaster will fare better than those who will have to rely on others for help.
Catholic Charities staff members have recently attended meetings held by the local county health department and met with community emergency leaders. Local leaders are well prepared for natural, health and other disasters. They are asking that your family be also.
What can you do to prepare? First, have a plan. If your family is separated at the time of an emergency, where will you meet? Pick a local spot familiar to all and easy to access. How will each family member "check in?" Who will take roll call, knowing who is safe and who is missing? What about pets? How will you manage their care and safekeeping?
Second, prepare a "to go" pack. Pack a flashlight and batteries. Add food and water for three days. A manual can opener will make opening food cans a snap. Prescription medicines should also be included.
Moisturized wipes and small plastic garbage bags will be necessary for safe personal hygiene. A first aid kit is a must. A whistle will allow you to call for help.
A battery-operated NOAA radio will keep you in the loop. Carry your cell phone, an electric and/or solar charger and an inverter. Include some cash, in small bills, as large denominations may not be easily converted into smaller bills or change.
A dust mask and heavy sheet plastic with duct tape may protect from environmental hazards. A wrench will be handy for turning off utilities.
Keep the emergency kit in an easily accessible central location. Make sure children know where it is. Be sure it is light weight for carrying or on rollers if heavy (there are some nice rolling coolers around). Consider having multiple kits for the home, car and workplace.
Emergency management personnel in southern Indiana suggest that a natural disaster is the most likely cause for concern. Tornadoes and earthquakes cause physical destruction and power loss. However, medical emergencies, such as a heavily communicable virus or flu can create havoc in a community as well.
Emergency preparedness is not just about one family, but about a commumity. Consider volunteering with the American Red Cross, Vanderburgh County Health Department, FEMA or the local Emergency Management Agency. All of these agencies will require trained volunteers with general and special knowledge and skills to respond in an emergency.
For more information visit www.ready.gov and http://www.redcross.org/in/evansville.
