Thursday, January 8, 2009

Prepare for Disasters......TODAY

We are all concerned with the possibility of further disaster emergencies arising in the wake of recent hurricanes, tsunamis, acts of terrorism, and floods, and earthquakes. The winter of 2008/2009 appears to be a severe one...and one that has just started! Though some people feel it is impossible to be prepared for unexpected events, the truth is that taking preparedness actions helps people deal with disasters of all sorts much more effectively when they do occur.
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) says "To survive a natural or man-made disaster we must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when the disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector in the case of a fire, preparing for the unexpected makes sense."
When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.
Hurricanes are among the most dramatic, damaging and potentially deadly weather events. The force of hurricane winds alone can cause tremendous devastation, toppling trees and power lines, closing roads; they cause flooding and severe damage to buildings. Hurricane Katrina hit the southern coast of the United States with devastating effect. The storm surge breached the city's levees at multiple points, leaving 80 percent of the city submerged, tens of thousands of victims clinging to rooftops, and hundreds of thousands scattered to shelters around the country. This past hurricane season left the Gulf Coast in tatters, and many northern states were affected by the power of these storms.
Winter storms can bring heavy snowfall and extreme cold that can immobilize an entire region. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with a major snowstorm or extreme cold. Winter storms can result in flooding, storm surge, closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia.
Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently, and without warning at any time of the day or night. If an earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths and injuries and extensive property damage.
Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighbourhood or community, or if very large, can affect entire river basins and multiple states.
The most disturbing news that the latest surveys have given us is that fewer than 50% of households located in earthquake zones have disaster supply kits at hand. Even after the graphic videos provided by the news media, half of our population makes no effort to prepare! Remember, you will likely be on your own in the hours and days following an earthquake, flood, and severe storm or any major emergency.
It is imperative that you take action NOW, to protect your family. To prepare your family. To survive! There are several disasters which can and may strike you. Make the proper preparations now. Your life may depend on it.
Please note the various vendors, etc. on this page which can help you prepare for any disaster.

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