Natural Disaster Resources for Families

Much of the United States is currently affected by some form of natural disaster. The Northwest and West are fighting fires and Texas and Florida are contending with hurricanes. Mexico is also dealing with the aftermath of an 8.0 earthquake. No matter where you are in the US or in the world, the Basic Preparedness Tips below could be helpful for you and your family. The links included in the tips below provide further details from the Department of Homeland Security website.

Basic Preparedness Tips

Plan your exit

Know where to go. If you are ordered to evacuate, know the local hurricane evacuation route(s) to take and have a plan for where you can stay. Contact your local emergency management agency for more information.

Adequate Supplies

Put together a disaster supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, first aid supplies, and copies of your critical information if you need to evacuate.

If you don’t evacuate

If you are not in an area that is advised to evacuate and you decide to stay in your home, plan for adequate supplies in case you lose power and water for several days and you are not able to leave due to flooding or blocked roads.  This is critical if you rely on power to run medical equipment.

Communicate

Make a family emergency communication plan.

Emergency Alerts

Many communities have text or email alerting systems for emergency notifications. To find out what alerts are available in your area, search the Internet with your town, city, or county name and the word “alerts”.

When to do what

FEMA’s Preparedness Timelineprovides a 36-hour timeline with tips on how to prepare.

Please share this with your family, extended family, friends and neighbors.  You never know when it could save a life.

Until Next Time!

About the Author:  Michele Redmon is the owner of I.C.O.E. Bracelets. She loves the peace of mind these bracelets provide to parents, grandparents and children. With customer service a priority, she loves talking to her customers so drop her a line at mredmon@icoebracelets.com.