Basics of Emergency Preparedness
How To Develop a Personal Disaster Plan
Ideas on how to develop a personal disaster plan for use in a manmade or a natural disaster.
When Disaster Strikes: The Basics of Emergency Preparedness
By Cheryl Curtis, MSN, RN, CNN
In recent years we have seen how disaster can strike quickly, and have devastating results. Whether disaster comes in the form of terrorism or natural occurrences, emergency response systems can be overwhelmed. We may find ourselves without the usual level of support from public agencies. It is important to be organized and prepared to rely on our own resources in case of need.
A disaster can be natural or manmade. Some examples of disasters caused by nature might be a flood, hurricane, earthquake or fire. A man-made disaster is one that is not caused by a natural event and can be accidental or intentional.
There are three common elements of disasters. Disasters are usually unexpected, the emergency services network may be overwhelmed, and the lives and health of people may be in danger. It is important to make a plan around all of these commonalities. If the emergency service personnel cannot reach you, even minor emergency situations can cause harm or injury to your loved ones.
Transportation, food and water supplies, utilities, and communication systems are some services that may be disrupted during an emergency situation. We should consider each of these resources, and think about the effect it would have on our lives if these services were compromised. As we do that, we can gather information to structure our own personal emergency plan, and compile a list of supplies to assemble into an emergency supply kit.
So how do we prepare for an emergency situation? Have a plan! Obviously, we cannot prepare for every potential type of disaster, but depending upon your location, you will know which types of natural disasters would be the most likely. If you live in California, you may put together an earthquake kit, but if you live in Iowa, perhaps you have a tornado plan. Assess issues that are pertinent to your family and develop a plan for action.
When putting together your emergency plan, ask the following questions:
- How will you get out of your home?
- Who will be responsible for children, elderly, and pets?
- Where will you meet your family?
- How will you communicate with each other if you are separated?
Make sure you open discussion about emergency preparation with your family. Determine and communicate the plan. Conduct family drills. Determine a contact that lives out of the immediate area, and ask that person to be your lifeline in an emergency situation. Educate appropriate members of your family on how to shut off electricity, water and gas. It is helpful if all members of your family know basic safety practices.
Comprehensive lists of emergency supply kit items are available on many websites, and at libraries, schools, fire stations and emergency service locations. Pre-packaged emergency kits are also available. Have specific necessary items such as prescription medications, eyeglasses and infant care items readily available. We have included some emergency preparedness websites of interest.
Personal emergency preparedness will allow us a measure of independence and confidence in the event of a disaster. Taking the time to develop a plan of action and to compile a few emergency items, can mean the difference between panic or control during a disaster until emergency service teams can reach you. Having a plan could make the difference for your family.
Websites of Interest:
References:
City of Phoenix Homeland Defense Bureau (2005). Community Emergency Response Team Participant Manual. McLean, Virginia: Human Technology, Inc.
Langan, J. C. & James, D. C. (2005). Preparing Nurses for Disaster Management. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
