Fall 2008
Vol. 10, No. 4
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Fall 2008 |
Your family disaster plan can keep you snug and safe!
Teresa L. Mareschal, MAT
Human Development Specialist
If you knew a disaster was coming, wouldn’t you make preparations to protect yourself and your family?
Many potential disasters could impact your family. A hazardous material accident could force your family to evacuate your home. A winter storm, earthquake or tornado could cut off basic services, such as gas, water, electricity or phone service.
Creating a family disaster plan
The first step is to update your family’s disaster plan. You should pack six basic types of supplies in a special container (such as a large trash container, backpack or duffle bag) in case of a natural or man-made disaster. These supplies include:
} Water (store one gallon per person per day)
} Ready-to-eat
food
(canned food, canned juices,
high-energy foods,
vitamins, comfort foods, special foods for infants or family members on a
special diet)
} First
aid supplies (bandages,
antiseptic, soap, latex gloves, non-prescription drugs such as aspirin, antacid,
anti-diarrhea medication, etc.)
} Clothing
and bedding (include sturdy shoes, rain gear, blankets, hats, gloves,
thermal underwear,
sunglasses)
} Tools
and emergency supplies (battery-operated radio, flashlights, fire
extinguisher, pliers, shut-off wrench, matches in waterproof container, liquid
soap, toilet paper,
feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, household chlorine bleach)
} Special
items (for an infant, medication for family members, books and games for
entertainment, important family documents).
Preparing for a winter storm
Although you may not know when the first ice storm is coming, you can take steps now to keep your family safe.
A key rule is to listen to the latest weather
reports on local radio and television. To prepare for a severe storm or
blizzard, you should have the items listed above readily on hand at home. Be
sure to check for an adequate supply of heating fuel. Be aware of fire hazards
posed by prolonged use of stoves, fireplaces and space heaters.
The safest place to be during a winter storm or cold snap is indoors. Dress properly before venturing outdoors. Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded. Avoid overexertion when outdoors, including when snow shoveling. Be aware that cold weather itself, without any physical exertion, puts an extra strain on the heart.
Safety checking your vehicle
} Before
severe storms and cold arrive, winterize all vehicles. Pay
special attention to engine, fuel, ignition and exhaust systems.
} Make sure tires and brakes are in good condition and that the heater, windshield wipers and lights work properly. Check the antifreeze level.
} Equip each vehicle with an emergency winter storm kit that includes non-perishable foods, extra clothes, blankets, flashlight, fresh batteries, shovel, booster cables, flares and bags of sand.
Winter driving safety
tips
} Always keep the gas tank filled.
} If you become stranded in your vehicle, stay in your vehicle. Never try to walk to safety.
} Conserve fuel and heat by running the heater and engine sparingly.
} To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, open a car window slightly. Periodically clear snow away from the exhaust pipe.
By following these safety measures and staying prepared during cold weather and storms, you can avoid the fatal effects of winter during the next few months.
For a more detailed checklist, contact your local Red Cross office, or visit MU Extension’s Web site, extension.missouri.edu/cemp/preparedness.html.
Adapted
in part from a disaster preparedness handout created by
Beverly Maltsberger, Community Development Specialist, University of Missouri
Extension.
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Editor: Roxanne T. Miller MillerRT@missouri.edu |
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