Steps to take to be ready for any disaster, are you ready?
From floods and forest fires, and other pandemic disease outbreaks worldwide, disaster could strike at any time. Are you adequately prepared? Very few people are. Protect yourself and your family by moving preparations for a disaster up to the top of your to-do list.
These basic disaster preparation tips can put you on the right track for any hazard…
- Build an emergency kit.
Assemble it in advance, including enough basic disaster supplies to last 72 hours:- Water
A gallon per person, per day – for drinking and sanitation. - Food
Canned food (as well as a manual can opener, bowls, utensils, and bottles), dried fruit, peanut butter, crackers, cereal, energy bars, juice boxes, non-perishable pasteurized milk. Avoid salty snacks that increase thirst. - Medications
Include at least a 3-day supply of all prescription medications, as well as a first aid kit and book with essential such as hand sanitiser, plasters/gauze, antibiotic ointment, petroleum jelly, adhesive tape, cold-packs, aspirin/ibuprofen, antacids, antihistamines/anti-allergens, calamine/anti-itch, cough/mucus control medication, laxatives, sleep aids, sunscreen, burn ointment, saline, scissors, tweezers, a sewing kit and vitamins. - Supplies
Including a battery-powered torch and radio, extra batteries, candles, whistle (for help), soap/towelettes/wipes, unopened REGULAR bleach, toilet paper, wrenches/pliers to turn off utilities (learn how in advance), plastic sheeting/contractor bags, duct tape, filter masks (or towels/handkerchiefs) for airborne contaminants, warm/dry clothes, blankets/sleeping bags, and speciality supplies as needed by your family (diapers/formula, kids activities, sanitary napkins, pet supplies, etc.). - Essential documents/copies
Driving licences, passports, birth certificates, credit cards, bank account information, insurance cards, immunisation records, spare keys, maps, phone list, and extra cash.
- Water
- Pay attention.
Listen to local TV and radio for official disaster information instructions as they become available. - Know where to go.
Make yourself and family members aware of established community evacuation routes and shelters for safe, efficient travel in the event of dangerous situations. Become knowledgeable regarding alternate routes/modes of transportation. - Have a communication plan in place in case of separation.
When emergencies occur, your family may be scattered around the area at school, nursery, home, and work. Establish a family communication plan in advance to prevent panic. Choose several locations in different directions. Memorise essential phone numbers, covering how you will get in touch in different situations to ensure a safe and rapid reunion. - Share.
Discuss your disaster preparation plan with all involved parties, including neighbours, schools, carers, and employers.
Prepare for all possibilities
Assemble your kit in advance, keeping abreast of expiration of supplies. Keep items easily accessible in the event evacuation is necessary. You may only have a moment’s notice. Understand officials and relief workers will be working their fastest, but may not be able to reach you for hours or days. Realise the consequences of the loss of basic services for days or weeks, including electricity, telephones, gas, water, and sewage treatment, stocking yourself with items to help you manage these trying times. You will be far better prepared with the help of detailed, advanced knowledge for each event.
Weather the storm with these essential tips and the professional restoration services of Rainbow International and get the help you need in any situation. Contact us today.