Natural disasters, terrorism or pandemic
If faced with an unexpected natural disaster, unthinkable act of terrorism, or pandemic influenza, would you and your loved ones be prepared? If your answer is “no,” you are not alone. The potential threat of these dangers is something we all should be prepared for, but most of us are not.
During the month of September (Emergency Preparedness Month), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and local response agencies, like the Mid-Michigan District Health Department (MMDHD), will be encouraging individuals, families, businesses and communities to prepare for the unexpected.
In Michigan, the unexpected can include extreme weather emergencies, such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, power outages, extreme heat and cold, and crippling winter storms; all of which can occur with little or no warning. Knowing what to do and preparing for these and other emergencies can make all the difference when seconds count.
While preparing for the unexpected can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to. The Resolve to be Ready campaign divides preparedness into the following steps:
1. Get an emergency supply kit- When disaster strikes, you may need to survive on your own until help arrives. That’s why it’s so important to keep enough emergency supplies at home and in the car to last everyone in your household at least three days. The basic kit should include water, food and first aid supplies.
2. Make a family emergency plan- Plan in advance so you know how you would communicate with and find your loved ones if a disaster hit.
3. Be informed- Learn about the types of hazards and risks (both natural and man-made) that are most likely to happen in your area and their appropriate responses.
4. Get involved- Become active in preparedness efforts in your community. Visit www.mivolunteerregistry.org for more information.
Please visit www.ready.gov or www.do1thing.com for a list of additional items to include in your emergency kit and sample family emergency plans, as well as guidance on how to become more informed and getting involved in your community.
Emergencies can range from inconvenient to devastating, but by following these simple steps in advance, you will minimize the impact on you, your family, your business, and your community as well as give yourself greater peace of mind.