Emergency Preparedness

Terrible earthquakes have recently rocked Haiti and Chile, and many people are wondering, "What if a natural or other disaster hit my community, or my family?" Unfortunately, in a disaster scenario with many people affected, first responders such as firefighters and police officers will not be able to help each and every individual.

Try to keep disaster supplies on hand, both inside and outside your home, and in your car and office. Have first aid supplies, including bandages. Count on having about two weeks' worth of food and water supplies, including a gallon of water per person per day. Remember practicalities such as having a can opener everywhere you keep emergency cans (stores now also sell innovative food packaging that does not need an opener). Keep a supply of medication in case you cannot go back to the pharmacy for a couple of weeks -- just ask your doctor for an extra prescription for disasters; he or she will usually be quite willing to help. Also, keep emergency supplies of food, water and medication for your pets.

In case of earthquake, stay inside if you are already there. More injuries occur outside with falling objects. Look for a corner to stand in, and cover your head, or look for a "void," the empty area next to an object such as a bed or a couch. Crouch down and cover your head, and wait until the shaking stops. If you cannot find a void, duck under a table, but be careful because it might collapse if a heavy object falls on it. The new thinking is to avoid standing in doorways, because of injuries due to the swinging door. If you are outdoors, stay there, but try to get to a clear area away from items that could fall and injure you -- including trees, buildings, and poles. Watch out for electrical wires.

Memorize the phone number of a person who lives out of state, as local lines and cell phones might not be functioning. Pre-arrange a place to meet family members, but follow any guidance by emergency personnel if they tell you to go to a place of safety.

More information can be found online, including from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/.