Submitted by: Jodi Willemsen, Acute Infectious Disease, Epidemiology & Preparedness Service Manager –
Spring is here… although Mother Nature has us guessing otherwise lately! While spring may bring back the robins, tree buds, and tulips, it can also bring with it, severe weather. If a disaster or weather emergency were to strike, would you and your family be prepared to handle it? Would you know what to do to protect yourselves from harm? You and those you care about could be at home, at work or at school when the unexpected happens. How will you find each other? Will you know your family is safe? If utilities become unavailable, what will you do? Also, take a little time to think about who might depend on you to help them through these types of situations. Maybe family, neighbors, co-workers, pets. What are you willing to do to help protect them during these types of situations?
All of these “what if” questions are very important to think about, discuss, and write down with your family BEFORE disaster strikes. Make sure everyone knows and understands the process and plan in place.
Here are some suggestions to get you well on your way to being ready for these types of situations:
- Review your severe weather safety plans – know where to seek shelter.
- Buy a weather radio.
- Sign up to receive text messages and alerts over your cell phone.
- Store emergency supplies in the area you will seek shelter – show family members where these items are located.
- When traveling, be alert to conditions that may develop.
- Learn about emergency preparedness and response plans for your schools and places of employment. Know the location of these plans.
- Know how to contact public health, medical, and law enforcement authorities.
- Be sure to have working fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors.
We hope none of us ever has to face a disaster or other emergency situation. However, when an event does occur, knowing what to do within the first few minutes or hours can save lives. In a disaster, each of us can make a difference, as individuals, families and communities!
