What to Do if Disaster Strikes
Posted on: June 18, 2007
Photo by Sarah Harmon of Hood Photography
No part of the United States is free from disaster. Here’s what you need to know about being prepared:
- Maintain a disaster preparedness kit. Items should include 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least three days; at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food; $100 in small bills; a lighter for fires; a battery-powered or hand-crank radio; flashlight; extra batteries; first aid kit; a whistle to signal for help; dust masks; plastic sheeting and duct tape to secure a shelter; moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation; wrench or pliers to turn off utilities; a can opener for food; and local maps. Keep a change of clothes in a backpack for each household member.
- Emphasize the importance of a plan. Family members might not be together when disaster strikes, so they should know the evacuation destination of their community. It might be easier to make a long-distance phone call than a local call, so clients should have an out-of-town contact who can relay messages. Every family member must know that person’s phone number and carry coins or a prepaid phone card. Worksites also should be prepared and clients’ vehicles should contain emergency kits.
- Be informed. Take the time to learn the disaster preparedness plans of local schools, cities and states so you can pass this information to your customers.
Disaster Preparedness Week is August 30 to September 5. For more information visit www.ready.gov.
Contributed by Mitch Carpenter of American Home Mortgage.