Emergency Disaster Survival
 |
No items matching your keywords were found.
Disaster Survival Essentials – What to do immediately after a disaster strikes
There are some things you should do when an event occurs even if you have prepared survival essentials in advance. Remember that each situation is different and these steps do not have to be taken in the order listed. Safety is always the first priority.
If you are at home when an emergency occurs immediately check to see if the water is still on. If it is still on then fill every possible container you have that will hold water. Pots, pans, plastic containers, and every sink and bathtub should be filled. If the water is off, there is still some water inside the water pipes in your home that can be obtained. This water can be drained from the pipes by opening the LOWEST cold water faucet in your home, which will usually be on the first floor, or the basement, or an outside water faucet. However, you will also need to open the highest cold water faucet in your home to allow air to enter the water pipes so the water can flow out the lowest water faucet into your collection container. This will drain all the water out of your pipes using gravity.
Check your home for damage and determine if evacuation is necessary. Check for gas leaks with a flashlight and if you smell gas turn the gas main off. Check electrical wiring and if necessary turn off the main breaker.
Check your food supply to see what you have available in the way of non perishables. Hopefully you have a cache of survival food already prepared. Save these for last and only consume what is in your refrigerator for now (even if the power is still on) as these foods will spoil first. Gather all coolers that you may have to get ready to empty the fridge.
Try to determine the extent of the disaster to gage the areas affected and the duration. Battery operated radio or TV should be used sparingly if disaster looks widespread or extremely severe. This will help you to determine whether to stay where you are or bug out to a safer location.
Gather clothing, medicines, personal hygiene products, first aid kit and other needed items together in case you need to leave or the situation becomes worse forcing evacuation. Get you Bug Out Bag (BOB) ready or start putting one together with whatever items you can gather from tackle boxes, tool storage, camping supplies and other resources.
If you have pets do not forget their food and medications.
These are the first steps I would take once I had checked for injuries of family and pets. Situations always seem to escalate over time so it is best to be prepared as soon as possible to take action to ensure your safety. These steps would also allow you to determine the extent of your resources and how long they will last.
About the Author
With all of the severe weather events seemingly on the increase I have been stocking some canned goods for an emergency. Last year when the wind storm from the hurricane came through my house was without power for two weeks. After this I began looking for ways to better prepare for my family and found a lot of good advice and products. You may find more information on my web page Family Survival Essentials or read one of my other articles on this subject Have you thought about preparing your Family Survival Essentials.
Comments