Guest Author - Anita Grace Simpson

Do you tend towards optimism, or pessimism? Is the glass half full or half empty? Surprisingly, both optimists and pessimists may fail to prepare for potential emergencies – unexpected events that can really happen. Hurricanes are somewhat predictable, but most of the time we don’t know when an emergency will occur. Will you be ready?

In order to be prepared, you will need an emergency plan and the materials to carry out that plan. The plan should cover everyone in the household, including college students who might be home for break when the emergency strikes, and your pets. It should specify each household member’s needs and how those needs will be met in abnormal circumstances. Give particular consideration to anyone who takes daily prescriptions, requires medical services (such as dialysis) regularly, or has a disability.

Make a list of all prescriptions your family members take, as well as over-the-counter medication taken regularly. You should keep extras on hand at all times, if possible. It can be helpful for individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or severe allergies to register with MedicAlert (see below) or a similar organization. In the event of a disaster, easy access to information could be crucial for the person’s survival.

If a family member has restricted mobility and uses an assistive device, make sure it will be accessible and always have a backup, especially if the device uses electricity. If your plan includes evacuation, moving to a storm shelter, or other movement from the home, specify in advance how this movement will work for the disabled person.

Most disasters include the possibility of injury or illness, so first aid supplies and the knowledge required to use them are essential to your plan. I recommend taking CPR and first aid courses at your local Red Cross, then keeping your certification current. At least one family member (preferably two or more) should have this knowledge. The Red Cross will also advise you on the contents of a first aid kit, but you may need additional items on hand in the event of long-term disasters.

Your plan should specify how and where you and your family members will meet (if possible) when an emergency occurs. Communication is also important. Make a list of important phone numbers – schools, workplaces, extended family – and give it to everyone who can use a phone. You will also need guidance from emergency services agencies through television or radio. A battery-powered multi-band radio, preferably one that can be hand-cranked, will provide access to TV and radio stations, weather reports, and possibly shortwave. Find out if there are any warning devices in your area (such as severe weather sirens) and become familiar with their sounds. Make sure your children know what to do if the siren sounds.

When disasters occur, normal services such as electricity, clean water, and transportation will be unavailable. Your plan will include substitutes for these or ways in which you can do without. Depending on where you live and what electrical appliances you use, you may wish to purchase a standby generator. You will also require a means to purify water, since drinking or cooking with contaminated water can result in fatal illness. If you live in an area affected by hurricanes, keep your car’s gas tank full in the event of a sudden evacuation order. Otherwise, keep your tank at least half full at all times. It is better for the engine and better for your mental health!

Finally, here is the most important component of your emergency plan – your attitude! A calm, positive attitude will make it easier for you to respond to the emergency appropriately. As much as possible, save your emotions for afterwards. Others around you (particularly children) will be much more positive and hopeful if they see you being positive and hopeful. Your carefully thought out emergency plan, along with the materials to carry it out, will give you a boost on that attitude!