Preparing for Natural Disasters

photo: 1906 San Francisco earthquake - public domain

 

My heart is heavy as I witness the devastation and despair being experienced by those who have survived Haiti’s horrific earthquake this week. While we can never been fully prepared for a natural disaster, there are things that we can do to be more prepared while awaiting for assistance from others.

 

Bare Essentials  

• Water: We can survive long periods of time without food, but we can’t survive without water. Properly store a minimum of 6 gallons of water for each family member. Don’t forget your pets, too.
• Food: Being the only nourishment that your family may receive, store away a supply of non-perishable canned and packed items that won’t require cooking. It’s wise to select a wide variety of items. Also remember to store away a manual can opener.
• Survival Kit: Fill a waterproof tote with important items like flashlights, batteries, radios, clothing, bedding, and various tools. Inside keep an on-the-go bag that holds basics like clothes, cash, and important papers. It’s good to have on hand should you need to leave your home quickly.
• First Aid Kit: Keep an up-to-date first aid kit in your home at all times. One that contains bandages, gauze, aspirin, and antibiotic cream.
• Medications: Have an 3-5 day emergency supply of your important medications, and check the expiration dates on them regularly. If you have complicated medical issues, discuss an emergency plan with your doctor.

 

While the odds of a disaster striking are fairly low, it’s always wise to be prepared … just in case.