When Was The Last Time You Were in A Disaster?
By Tom Herrin
Chances are that most people have not experienced a real disaster. It is not that common unless they live in an area known for them. For many, the closest they come to a disaster is to watch coverage on television. Many may feel that they are closer if they have that kind of contact. Too many times, people relate to something like that only from what they are shown. Real disasters can have a devastating effect on large populations from the homeowner to the store proprietor. Everyone should prepare for difficult situations as if they were expecting it. Emergency plans, when developed right, can mean saving lives, whether it is their own or someone else’s.
You Are Not Alone
There are ample resources available regarding emergency plans that can serve as a model for anyone who has a desire to make their own. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, is probably the best known. Once they begin to put together their own plan, it may be best to personalize it by having all family members contribute. Every family has needs that vary according to their location and individual makeup of the family. This uniqueness can enable every member to take ownership in seeing that their plan is implemented.
There Will Be Some Commonalities
Basic needs are pretty much the same for everyone. Bottled water for at least a few days, food that does not require cooking, first aid supplies, and copies of important papers should be in every kit or bucket. If these things are together and kept in a place where they can be picked up and carried out quickly on a moment’s notice, they don’t have to scramble around to find supplies. In an evacuation, time is of the essence, and anytime decisions can be made ahead of time, they will are more likely to be good ones.
Educate Everyone On How To Turn Off Utilities
In severe circumstances in which physical damage has been done, there may be a risk of downed power lines, broken gas lines, and loss of water. If every family member could be shown how to safely turn off the utilities safely, you can minimize the risk of serious accident or death. You may not have personally experienced a disaster, but they can happen anytime without notice. Developing a working plan can save lives, maybe your own.
Also important is being in good health to withstand the turmoil your life will be in. Don't take your health for granted, either. It may save your life.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sparks, Nev.