Sherri McKinney who is the national spokesperson of The Red Cross, knows just how natural disasters are unpredictable. She was a victim of the deadly Nashville tornadoes of 2020, the sixth most expensive twister ever recorded in U.S. history. 25 people died, and more than 300 were wounded and the city was left with 1.6 billion dollars in damages.
The storm hit the area overnight and abruptly and quickly, leaving McKinney and others without time to get out prior to it striking.
“Emergencies are more frequent than you imagine, and catastrophes can occur at any point and at any time. The worst part is that it can start within the privacy of one’s home,” said McKinney.
McKinney states that a well-planned preparation can make the disaster less stressful.
“Being ready for every kind of disaster or emergency could be an impact on the quality of life or the end of your life,” McKinney added. “We need to stress this point enough. Make a plan, carry the right kit, and be aware of how to evacuate your home.”
In the aftermath of a disaster it can take a few several days before emergency responders can reach out to individuals. It’s typically neighbors or friends in your area who can reach out to one another first.
Lea Crager, FEMA’s Ready Campaign Director Lea Crager, FEMA’s Ready Campaign Director, says there are ways in order to be prepared for scenarios when access to medical aid is not as easy.
“That’s why we advise people to attend the CPR class, and carry an emergency kit for first aid Be aware that if anything occurred in your community or neighborhood it could mean you have to assist some of your neighbors or they might be assisting them,” said Crager.
Crager stated that the better prepared your community is the more comfortable it will be for first responders to be able to assist. Since there are only a limited number of sources available.
A bag for your go is an essential part of your emergency preparedness
The Red Cross is helping recovery efforts in Maui as well as McKinney is stationed in Maui. In the aftermath of a disaster such as those of Maui flames McKinney states that people in the area are the most in need of water, food and clothes.
“I believe that people think they’re prepared when something’s about to occur. But they’ve probably not spent the time to research the location of a few important items are located in their home or other items they may require in emergencies,” said Crager. “You sort of take it for the assumption that everyone knows how to respond. When real-life events occur most of the time people are overwhelmed and can’t think clear.”
In terms of a adequately stocked backpack, McKinney suggests packing several essential items. The bag you choose to take should have an all-day supply of water per person. Be sure to have food items that are shelf stable and do not have expiration dates. Also, you should have first-aid supplies.
“We were told of people leaving the hospital with burning arms and legs. It is important to have an emergency kit that has products in it to treat a minor burn or a minor cut is essential at times,” McKinney said.
It’s essential to start by building a small emergency kit to keep in your home for example, in your closet or garage. Start by purchasing just one item at a. You can also build a comprehensive list of things you’ll require in your bag and then purchase these items in large quantities. Whatever way you decide to design your bag The Red Cross says a go bag should contain enough items that will last for the whole family over three consecutive days.
The amount of water and food you’ll need depends upon where you reside. Certain officials from the state or local level will require you to carry at least three days worth of food items.
“If you reside on an island such as Puerto Rico, they request that you take 7-10 days of food,” said Crager. “If logistical chains break this will mean it takes longer to bring aid and assistance to certain regions. Therefore, if you’re in a rural area likely to require more help than someone located in an area that’s likely to have the resources you need readily available.”
Visit on the Red Cross website to find a complete checklist of the essentials you should have in your bag.
They comprise:
1. One gallon of water per person, daily (3-day supply to evacuate.)
2. Food: Non-perishable, easy to prepare (3-day food supply to evacuate)
3. First aid kit
4. Medicines (7-day package) and medical equipment.
5. Personal documents in the form of copies (medication list and relevant medical information and proof of address, deed/lease to residence birth certificates, passports and insurance policies)
6. Contact information for family and emergency contacts.
FEMA insists that everyone will have their own list since everyone’s needs differ.
“What my mom has in her bag ” or the needs of your coworker will all be different. Do you have an animal? Have you got children? Do you take prescription medications? Take a look at what your needs are and what you’re likely to require to leave your home,” said Crager.
In the process of stocking their bag People often do not think about their medication. In the event of a catastrophe and the Red Cross will replace any and all medicines and eyeglasses, medical equipment and other medical necessities. “We have seen people numerous times when they evacuate and abandon everything to the side,” McKinney said.
Another item that is often forgotten is personal documents such as lease agreements or deed to your home. Crager states that FEMA always recommends that people keep duplicate copies of the documents on the cloud.
If you don’t want create your emergency kits from beginning from scratch, McKinney says the American Red Cross provides go kits and emergency kits available on the website redcross.org. They make excellent gifts for Christmas, weddings and also for those who are planning to become new homeowners.
“It’s vital to think about this type or gift in terms of a present to life” she added. “To ensure that we’re safeguarding our loved family members.”
However, FEMA insists that a pre-made bag must be tailored to meet your requirements. Crager suggests that you take a seat and look through the bag with your family members to ensure it contains everything you require.
Make sure to develop an emergency plan that is detailed
While having an emergency bag is essential, McKinney emphasizes the importance of communicating with your family members and creating an emergency plan in order to stay in contact in the event of a natural disaster.
It’s crucial to include your kids in these discussions as well. Let them know who you can call when they’re unable to contact you, and where they can be, and where they’ll meet you in the future.
“If there’s a catastrophe it’s common for people to think that they’re going to be at home with their children. We’re finding increasing evidence that disasters occur while children are in school or at the after school program. Parents can’t talk to their children,” said Crager. “So engage in those conversations so that everyone knows what roles we’d assume and what we’d need to do in the event that we were separated.”
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