Prepare for Disasters & Emergencies. Be Ready.

Emergency planning should be a part of everyone's routine. Know who to call, what to do, where to go, always! Have a plan of action before the emergency. Consider possible emergencies you might encounter at work or home, and then plan for them. You should have a point of contact in case of emergency. This is a person you can communicate with to give and get information or that can do this on your behalf. Next, make some considerations as well as an emergency kit.

During times of emergencies or disasters stress is often high and so are emotions. People need to first remember to stay calm and use common sense. For example don't go out to see accidents, film fires, drive across flooded roads, film severe weather, or walk into an official scene - unless you are there for a bonafide reason. Unnecessary traffic or interaction often causes confusion, delays, and only makes the situation worse.

Getting Ready: At Home & Work
Emergencies can happen anywhere anytime. Don't expect advanced notice either. Planning for and preparing are your best options for survival and protecting your property. First, discuss your options of what resources you will use. Determine how you will start the chain of action which most often starts with dialing 911 or notifying an emergency dispatcher. Whenever you do speak with a dispatcher try to remain calm and don't speak too fast. Give as much detail as possible and be sure to include any relative information such as your location, etc. Then plan on a disaster or emergency kit. For example, a home or business emergency kit may include essentials such as your prescriptions, contact information, important documents, emergency plan book, water/food supply, first aid kit, batteries, flashlight, and any other required items.

If you're driving, the kit would include mobile emergency essentials similar to the items above, only targeted for highway use including jumper cables, a rope, flares, first aid kit, blanket, shovel, etc. You can include any item, but make sure it is the essentials because in a emergency that is all that matters! Be aware of traffic dangers avoiding them if at all possible.

Make sure you have an actual emergency before even calling any dispatcher or 911. Emergency means there is an immediate threat to either life, property, or the environment. You would not call 911 to ask how the weather is or to report that you are unsatisfied with your McDonalds burger. Don't waste their time because they could be helping other people with bigger life threatening problems. On a side note, if you are driving a see an emergency vehicle, yield to them immediately. If you are on the highway - move over! In many states this is a law and is there to protect emergency personnel from being struck by your vehicle or others!

Expect the Unexpected
You should consider where you and your family or employees will meet during or after a emergency. If it is a tornado or dangerous weather, consider the location of the nearest shelter or a safe sturdy interior structure, away from windows, on the lowest floor. If you must evacuate for flooding reasons, consider the height above seal level or higher ground to meet at in order to avoid the dangers of rapid flooding. Never cross roads or bridges where there is unknown water depth covering the area.

Keep your important information or files ready in case you must relocate. Be sure to include any necessary medications you or your family members may need, this includes prescriptions or doctors orders. Create a kit of first aid materials, a blanket, pillows, shovel, flashlight, extra batteries, a portable radio or weather radio, candles, non-perishable food items, toiletries, and ample supply of water (at least 3 days for you and your immediate family). If you are in charge of developing a kit for your business, the size, and materials should be of commercial instructions and proportions appropriate for your employees or business.

Monitor the Weather
Keep a close eye on weather conditions. Never try and outrun a tornado. Seek shelter immediately if dangerous weather threatens your location. DO NOT wait to see a tornado or film it. Dangerous debris, deadly lightning, large hail, and high winds are likely. Be aware of possible flooding. If you are outdoors find a nearby shelter or if not available, lie flat in a ditch covering your head. Consider flooding as a possibility. Generally, there is no such thing as a "all clear warning" so it is important to monitor local weather radio, television, or radio for further information and updates. Our Project Weather 2.0 initiative also promotes weather alert technology in every home that can help you stay informed and react.

You must be proactive and do your part. Doing this will give you piece of mind, better prepare you for emergencies, and increase your chances of survival. In addition, this also aids the entire emergency operations process when people are prepared, act appropriately, follow instructions, heed warnings, and remain clam. Act immediately. Do not wait until the last minute. Being prepared will also save you critical time.

In times of weather emergencies - always follow instructions and pay close attention to watches and warnings (see the severe weather education section of the site). During other emergencies - remain calm, stay out of danger, and call for help (or to give legitimate tips/reports). Never try something that you are untrained for or is unsafe. Many emergencies can be prevented. Always use common sense, courtesy, and good faith.

Community & You
Your author believes it takes a lot of heart, time, and effort to make a difference. However, each individual may be able to contribute in some way. Many ask "what can I do?" You can do much and it's a great public service.

A good community will get involved when it comes to situations or events that directly affect them. Imagine if your neighbor's house was on fire. Of course you would call for help and nock on the door to see if anyone was home. Maybe you would even get your water hose out to try and help. Or maybe you get involved in your neighborhood watch to prevent crime. Maybe you would organize a trash clean up event. You might even join a volunteer organization and help with a cause. The possibilities are unlimited. Especially if you have a special background or training; you may be an asset to an organization or agency.

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