Nobody wants to think about an emergency, yet things happen. So, be prepared so for disasters and emergencies can save time and lives when something does happens. September is National Preparedness Month, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and FEMA, and we have five helpful tips to share to help you and your family will be prepared in case of a disaster.
- Family members should know how to contact each other. Who should they call in a emergency? An Aunt or Uncle, or their Grandmother? FEMA has Disaster Plans available to download for both parents and children on their website. These forms are easy to fill out and put on the Frig or just use as an example. One idea I liked was for us to TEXT each if we were ever in trouble because the text can get through faster. Whatever means of communication you use simply have a plan in place so every knows how to find each other if something happens.
- Have a code word for emergencies? Preparing for weather related emergencies is important. It's also wise to have a code word just in case you're family is ever faced with a situation in which they feel threatened. Perhaps, the name of a deceased relative or pet: If you're child calls and tells you not to forget to feed BLUE, or call AUNT JEN, then you know something's wrong!
- Where to meet if there is an emergency like if the cell phones, the internet, or landlines do not work? Select a location everyone in your family knows as a meeting point. This is advisable for children at school or college as well. When everyone knows where to meet, then it's easier to find each other. Leaving a note in the mail box, or other location everyone knows with instructions could be helpful.
- Discuss what to do in an emergency at home. Have an exit plan in case of fire, flood, or other emergency. Establish where to meet, and who to call, and the importance of getting out of the house in such an emergency. Material items can be replaced; lives cannot.
- Children are accustom to fire drills, so have regular families discussions or meetings to review your emergency plans, and then practice.
"National Preparedness Month serves as a reminder that we all need to prepare for disasters and emergencies," said FEMA Region V acting regional administrator, Janet Odeshoo. "Make disaster readiness manageable by taking one step at a time. You can begin by learning your specific risk, then gather supplies for an emergency kit, and finally develop a family communications plan. By taking these small, but critical, steps, over time you can be prepared for disasters."
Look for more information on preparing for disasters and emergencies on the Ready.gov or FEMA.gov websites. Both offers excellent resources. Check out their kids site for more information and news.
Wherever your travels take your have a safe and memorable trip!About The Author
For Melody Schubert, life is simple; embrace moments with family and friends. And, when it comes to traveling, maps are good for returning to the highway. It's more fun to let your imagination be your compass and wander off the beaten track to discover overlooked destinations that express the heart of a region. Where will your compass take you?
