Emergency Preparedness Plans
Posted by Surya V on April 25, 2013 0 Comments
The importance of having an emergency preparedness plan cannot be underestimated, as it can save lives. The benefits of being prepared are proven and include:
- Reports show that proper emergency preparedness can help reduce anxiety, fear and the losses that are often associated with disasters. There are a number of preparedness plans that should be implemented, including those for communities, families and individuals. Having a plan is important, whether someone is the victim of a fire, tornado, hurricane or an earthquake. It’s important to have an evacuation and refuge plan that includes basic medical care.
- Reducing the impact of disasters is also helpful, as preventative preparation can help avert severe damage. This includes elevating a home for flood proofing measures and securing items to walls in the event of a massive earthquake.
Natural disasters displace and affect hundreds of thousands of people worldwide every year. Disasters have long-reaching effects, affecting both properties and people. Citizens should never rely solely on disaster-relief organizations, as it can take several days before they can reach those people affected by disasters. It is highly recommended that people be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days if a disaster occurs. This includes having a plan for shelter, food, water purification, sanitation and first aid.
Protecting a family in the event of an emergency is important. To create an effective plan, people need to evaluate the danger signs and risks, purchase necessary homeowner’s insurance, develop an emergency preparedness plan, assemble a supply kit that includes high-purity water and volunteer to help others that are nearby. Having a small, yet effective support system can be extremely beneficial during an emergency.
When an emergency strikes, people need to be prepared to implement and put their plan into action, help neighbors and friends and always follow the advice of community officials. After an emergency, the damaged property should be thoroughly assessed and steps should be taken to prevent any future losses.
Local government offices handle the majority of emergencies, which means that having a community support system is vital. Community organizations typically help assess potential risks and identify possible hazards, enforce required building codes, promote land-use management programs and zoning ordinances, responding to fires and hazardous materials, establishing a warning system, stocking necessary emergency equipment and supplies, offer evacuation programs, help take care of those requiring medical attention, providing shelter and helping aid in recovery efforts.
However, it’s also very important for people to have their own individual preparedness plans. Many government agencies offer detailed guides to help citizens create basic preparedness plans, including those designed for emergencies, disasters and terrorist attacks.