It’s Only a Matter of Time: Natural Disasters

Natural disasters can have devastating effects on the lives of individuals and entire communities. Preparation is key to minimizing the impact of natural disasters, which is why understanding the potential risks posed by different types of disasters is so significant. According to recent studies, chances are that you will experience the effects of a natural disaster at some point. This article will provide an overview of preparing for such an event, offering practical tips and advice that could be a lifesaver.

Preparation is Key!

In the face of natural disasters, preparation is key. As climate change continues to cause increasingly severe weather patterns, it’s only a matter of time before the next big disaster hits. From hurricanes and tornadoes to wildfires and earthquakes, natural disasters can strike at any moment and can be devastating. When protecting your home from natural disasters such as floods or wildfires, there are measures you can take ahead of time that may limit damage or even save your property altogether, not to mention your life and the ones you love. It’s essential to have a plan in place and be equipped with the necessary supplies before disaster strikes.

Know What Natural Disasters are Common in Your Location

The first step in preparation is to identify the types of natural disasters that are most common in your area. This will help you determine what specific preparations you need to make. For example, if you live in an area prone to hurricanes or tornadoes, you should have a plan for evacuation or shelter during a storm. In the United States, certain regions are prone to certain disasters, though all regions can experience many of the same disasters:

East and Gulf Coasts

The East Coast is prone to many natural disasters, including hurricanes, from Florida to Maine, and the Gulf Coast, which stretches from Florida to Texas. From June to November, hurricanes are one of the greatest threats to those on the East Coast. Hurricanes bring the threat of tornadoes and severe flooding, as well as power outages that could last weeks.

North East and the Mountainous Region of the Western States

Blizzards are a major threat for the North East states and the upper western part of our country, mainly from December – February. Blizzards and ice storms can create power outages that become deadly due to the freezing temperatures during these storms.

Mid West

From March through the fall, though mainly in the springtime, deadly tornadoes are a major threat to the states in this region.

Desert

Flash flooding and severe heat waves are common in the desert region of the states. Due to the dry climate and solid earth, flash floods are common during rain storms and snow melt.

West Coast

While this area tends to have some of the most consistent weather patterns, the West Coast sees its fair share of natural disasters. Wildfires, earthquakes, and tsunamis are more common along the West Coast than elsewhere in the US.

Prepare An Emergency Plan

While we cannot control when or where these events occur, we can mitigate their impact on our lives. The first step in preparation for natural disasters is developing an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting places, and procedures for communication with loved ones. Here are some tips on developing an emergency plan to help you stay safe during uncertain times:

• Establish clear communication channels with family members in case of an emergency.
• Create a list of significant phone numbers, including local authorities and hospitals, so they can be contacted easily when needed.
• Plan an evacuation route – several if needed.
• Plan to meet at a specific, safe location should you be split up during a disaster or if it occurs at work or school.
• Practice the plan and discuss it every few months and at the start of each season

Create a Disaster Preparedness Kit

Once you’ve identified potential risks and created an emergency plan, it’s time to create an emergency kit filled with essential supplies such as food, water, medication, flashlights, and batteries. Make sure your kit is easily accessible and stored in a waterproof container.

Supplies list:

• A first-aid kit
• Water bottles – reusable
• Non-perishable food items like canned goods
• Blankets and warm clothing
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Portable radio
• A gallon of water per person per day – have at least a 4-5 day supply
• Medications – prescription and as-needed meds
• A map of your area in case phone service is out
• Emergency candles
• Camping gear if it is warm enough to camp out if your home is no longer safe
• Medical information and your emergency binder (paper or electronic)
• Extra gas for your vehicle
• Make sure that cell phones are charged during any potentially threatening weather or potential disaster, and keep a charged portable charger in your kit.

Medical Information and Vital Records

It is not good to wait to gather your most vital information until the moment that you may need it has arrived. Be prepared for any emergency regarding your medical information and vital documents.

• Keep your medical information up-to-date on your phone, and make sure to have emergency contacts listed if you cannot contact your loved ones.
• In waterproof bags, it is also important to include personal documents such as identification cards, insurance papers, and copies of vital records like birth certificates and social security cards.
• Keep all vital records scanned into your phone and send copies to trusted loved ones to keep them safe in an emergency.
• You should wear a medical bracelet or tag if you have medical issues that must be known should you be injured or unable to speak – allergies, heart issues, autism, etc.

In Conclusion

Disaster preparedness is an essential part of everyday life. Being aware of the potential risks and taking steps to protect yourself and your family is essential for keeping everyone safe during a crisis. Establishing supplies, creating an emergency plan, staying informed about potential disasters, and practicing safety precautions will help you be prepared for an emergency. There are plenty of resources available to help you get started with disaster preparedness planning. Being prepared doesn’t guarantee that an emergency won’t happen, but it gives you hope that you will be ready if it does.