Do You Have A Plan?

Did you know that after a major disaster you need to be prepared to be on your own for at least the first 48-72 hours?  It is improbable that emergency response services will be immediately available to help you after a major disaster.  In fact, it might be several days before local vital services are restored, so it’s important to be prepared to take care of yourself and your family.  Most people live their lives without a major natural disaster happening to them, but when it does, it is vitally important to have supplies and a plan for an emergency survival situation.

In the next post, I'll talk about emergency kits and bug out bags.  For now, I will list parts of the emergency plan your family will need in an emergency:

• Designate someone outside of your local area that you can contact in an emergency situation.  You want to select someone far enough away that they won't be affected by the same emergency.  Give this person the names and contact information of anyone you want to keep informed of your situation.  Long distance phone service is often restored sooner than local phone service.
• Make copies of important documents and keep them off site.  Good ideas include in a safety deposit box or perhaps with someone you trust.  Documents may include: drivers license, passport, social security card, insurance information, financial statements, deeds, wills, your marriage license, and prescriptions.
• Inventory your important or valuable possessions.  A good way to do this is to take pictures and video, along with having a written log.  Keep copies of this information off site with your other important documents.
• Plan with your family what you will do in the event of a disaster.
• Put together a bug out bag.  A bug out bag is a portable emergency kit.  Prepare or buy a kit that will provide you and your family with supplies, food, and water for at least three days following a disaster.  Some good examples of bug out bags that you could buy can be found at EmergencyBugOutBags.net
• When making your disaster plan, remember the needs of children, seniors, people with disabilities, family members that don't speak english, and pets.

Some simple preparation can be all it takes to provide safety to you and your loved ones in the event of an emergency.  Take some action today!