Staying alert and being knowledgeable about emergencies is very important these days with the onslaught of fierce weather disturbances as well as fierce people.
Gone are the days when we shrug off an incoming storm, or a community disturbance. Those are all in the past now. Today, these incidents can no longer be disregarded because they cost human lives.
Take campus terrorism for example. Statistics from January to July 2019 counts the number of reported shootings to 22 all over the US. That is a staggering and an alarming number. And is a real cause for concern. We can no longer afford to be careless, and getting ready is imperative.
Here’s background information on all possible disasters or emergencies that could happen, and what you can do.
Natural Disasters
Storms, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, earthquakes, heatwave, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and mudslides are natural disasters that cost lives when they happen. The global warming affecting earth has also intensified storms, hurricanes, and heatwaves.
If you frequently face natural disasters, you need to know basic preparations like unplugging all your appliances, storing food and water, having handy charging devices for phones, flashlights, safely storing important documents, filling your gas tank, and more.
You also need to store baby needs, old people’s needs, and your pet’s needs.
Bioterrorism and Chemical Exposure
People are vulnerable to any and all forms of chemicals brought about by bioterrorism. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has enumerated about 50 bioterrorism weapons, the most popular of which are anthrax and ebola virus.
The government has teams in place to readily respond to cases of chemical attacks. There are active monitoring of activities that may cause such attacks, and residents are often warned of impending or possible attacks. In such cases, be sure to follow instructions very well.
Radiation Exposure
If there is a threat of radiation, the affected population are advised to hide and seek shelter, stay inside, and stay tuned for updates.
If you have basements, stay there. Keep away from doors and windows. If you think you’ve been exposed, take a shower right away, or wipe the exposed body part with damp clothing.
Keep track of the news with your radios, TVs, or mobile devices, and only come out when the government says it’s already safe to go out.
Disease Outbreaks
If there is an outbreak, you have to find out what the disease is so you’ll know what to do. Some may require getting booster shots so you don’t get infected. And never ever forget alcohol or hand sanitizers with more than 50% alcohol content, as well as soaps, face masks, gloves, etc.
If you have children or infants, or seniors at home, keep them indoors to avoid exposure as some diseases are airborne. Avoid holding them or having hand contact without first washing your hands and changing your clothing if you’re coming from the office or grocery.
Watch the news to monitor what is happening, what safety measures to take, and when it is safe to go out.
