Weather can change dramatically and often quite suddenly, causing severe destruction, injuries, and even fatalities. In the last few years especially, we have witnessed increasingly violent weather phenomena. Fortunately, today's improved weather alert services are often able to warn us of impending natural disasters well before they occur. This advance warning allows people to prepare themselves and their homes to weather the storm.
Every year in America, over 4000 people die and more than 20,000 are injured in fires. Statistically, that may not sound like very many, but if you’ve ever met a burn victim, you know that you want to do everything in your power to make your home safe, and prevent the possibility of a fire. Sadly, around 80% of fire deaths occur in homes. What’s even sadder is that most of these deaths and injuries could have been prevented, with a few simple safety measures.
Learn about the types of emergencies and disasters that can occur in your state. Prepare for hazards and threats in your area with these resources. Gather the supplies you need to have on hand in order to be prepared for all emergencies.
The time to put an emergency kit together is before a disaster.
An emergency kit is a container of items your family may need in or after an emergency. Most of the items can be found in your house.
It is important to put them in one place. Be sure every family member knows where the kit is kept.
You need to put enough water, food and supplies in your kit for three to seven days for each person and pet.
You may be on your own for hours or even days after a disaster. Fire fighters and police cannot always reach everyone quickly. Basic services like water, gas, power, sewage treatment and phones may be not work for several days or more.
Being ready for an emergency helps you and your family to survive. It also allows police, fire fighters and emergency medical workers to help those who need it most.
Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.