Are you prepared for an emergency? Many people assume that they will be able to handle any situation that comes their way, but the truth is that most people are not properly prepared. If you want to be sure that you and your loved ones are safe during an emergency, follow these tips for emergency preparation. By being proactive, you can rest assured knowing that you are ready for anything. Listed below are some tips for emergency preparedness:
PLAN AHEAD
In the event of a disaster, it is highly likely that you will not have access to the conveniences that you use on a daily basis. Consider all of the aspects of your typical routine when you are trying to plan ahead. Make a list of the people who assist you on a regular basis, including their names and the means by which you will get in touch with them in the event of an emergency. Build your own personal support system by getting in touch with people in your life who are willing to assist you in times of crisis. Think about the different kinds of transportation you use and what other kinds of transportation might be useful as backup options. Create a strategy, and then document it. You should always have a list of important information and contacts in your wallet as well as a copy of your plan in your emergency supply kits. You should let your family, friends, care providers, and anyone else who is part of your personal support network know about your plan.
BUILD AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT
The first thing you should do is think about how a crisis could possibly affect your particular needs. You should prepare to do it on your own for at least a fortnight. It’s possible that you won’t have access to any kind of medical care, including pharmacies and even hospitals. It is of the utmost importance that you and your family give some consideration to the kinds of resources that you use on a daily basis as well as the options that are open to you in the event that those resources are limited or unavailable.
First and foremost, you need to give some thought to the fundamentals of surviving, such as food, water, fresh air, and anything else that is required to maintain life. Take into account the two sets. Put together a single kit that contains everything you will require to remain in the same location for some time and manage on your own. In the event that you are required to go somewhere other than your house, you should have a second kit that is portable, lightweight, and of a more compact size.
Include Medications and Medical Supplies
If you have a medical condition that requires you to take medication or undergo medical treatment on a regular basis, you should ensure that you have all of the necessary supplies on hand to administer the treatment on your own for at least seven days. You should also make sure to keep a copy of your prescriptions, in addition to any information regarding dosage or treatment. If it is not possible for you to have a supply of medicines and supplies that will last for a week, you should keep as much as possible on hand and speak with either your pharmacist or your doctor about what else you should do to get ready.
Talk to the people who provide your regular services, such as home health care, treatment, or transportation, about the contingency plans they have in place in case of an emergency. This is especially important if you receive routine treatments that are administered in a clinic or hospital. Collaborate with them to determine which backup service providers are available in both your area and the areas to which you might evacuate. If you use medical equipment in your home that cannot function without electricity, you should discuss with your healthcare provider what steps you should take to ensure that you will be able to use the equipment even if the power goes out.
Include Copies of Important Documents
You should ensure that your emergency supply kits include copies of important documents such as family records, medical records, wills, deeds, a social security number, information regarding charges and bank accounts, and tax records. It is highly recommended that these documents be stored in a container that is watertight. Include in your emergency kit any instructions or manuals that are necessary for operating any life-saving devices or equipment that you rely on, and also make sure that a trusted friend or family member has a copy of these documents. Include the names and phone numbers of everyone in your personal support network, as well as your medical providers. If you have a communication disability, make sure that your emergency information list notes the best way to communicate with you. Additionally, make sure that you have cash or traveller’s checks in your kits in case you need to purchase additional supplies.
ESTABLISH A SUPPORT NETWORK
If you believe that you will require assistance in the event of a disaster, you should compile a list of family members, friends, and anyone else who will be a part of your contingency plan. Have a conversation with these individuals and ask them to join your network of support. You should make sure that every member of your group is aware of every component of your emergency plan. This should include a friend or relative who lives in a different region but who can still assist you in the event that it is required. In the event that there is a disaster, you should make sure that everyone is aware of how you intend to evacuate your home, school, or place of employment, as well as where you will go. Be sure that a member of your personal support network either has a spare key to your home or is aware of the location of the emergency supplies you keep there.
EVACUATE
There may be circumstances in which you will make the decision to flee, or there may be situations in which you may be ordered to evacuate. Both of these outcomes are possible. Make a plan for how you will escape, and think ahead about where you will go. Choose multiple destinations that are located in a variety of different directions so that you have options available in the event of an emergency. Inquire about the procedures for evacuating the buildings where you spend time, such as your place of employment, your school, community organisations, and any other places you visit regularly. If you frequently rely on elevators, you should always be prepared in the event that they are not operational.
STAY INFORMED
Regardless of the nature of the emergency that may befall you, it is important to take precautions by doing things like compiling a list of things to do in the event of a catastrophe and putting together an emergency supply kit. Nevertheless, it is essential to maintain a level of awareness regarding what could take place and be familiar with the kinds of disasters that are most likely to impact your region.
You should be ready to modify this information to fit your specific situation, and you should make every effort to follow the instructions that you are given by the authorities who are currently on the scene. First and foremost, keep a level head, show some patience, and consider your options before acting. You can be ready for anything that comes your way by making a few simple preparations.
Source: Division of Emergency Management Homeland Security
SUMMARY
Although emergency situations can be frightening, by planning ahead and being prepared, you can reduce the stress that comes with them. Having a kit packed and ready to go, as well as knowing who to contact for help, will give you peace of mind in case of an emergency. And if disaster does strike, remember to stay calm and evacuate when instructed to do so. If you want to learn more about how to respond in an emergency situation, consider booking a CPR First Aid course today. With this knowledge under your belt, you’ll feel confident that you can handle any emergency that comes your way. Check out our new venue at Suite 20/1253, Nepean Highway, Cheltenham VIC, Australia.
