Disaster Prep For The Rest Of Us

Seasoned Preppers

    I have written this column for nearly three years hoping to raise awareness of the need to prepared in the face of a disaster. Tools have been provided, information made available and I find there is a widespread impact.  Although the forum is public, I find it curious that most feedback is from my, shall we say, fellow “mature crowd”.  Some exceptions are police officers, firefighters and medical professionals all of whom are of a “prepared” mindset as a matter of routine.  Their very livelihood depends on being prepared to respond to our private disasters whether it be a structure fire, medical emergency or matter involving the police.

    This week’s column is provided especially for our “seasoned citizens”.  As mentioned before, when disaster occurs, the first responders are overwhelmed.  Y.O.Y.O then becomes a reality.  (You’re On Your Own).   The American Red Cross recommends you create a Personal Support Network made up of several folks who will check in on you, ensure your wellness and give assistance if needed.  This network can consist of friends, roommates, family members, relatives, personal attendants, co-workers and neighbors. Ideally, a minimum of three people can be identified at each location where you regularly spend time, for example at work, home, school or volunteer site.

    There are seven (7) important items to discuss and implement with a personal support network:

1.  Make arrangements, prior to an emergency, for your support network to immediately check on you after a disaster and, if needed, offer assistance.

2.  Exchange important keys.

3.  Show them where you keep emergency supplies.

4.  Share copies of your relevant emergency documents, evacuation plans and emergency health information card.

5.  Agree on and practice methods of contacting each other in the event of an emergency.  Do not count on the telephones working.  (Dave’s note:  Check out FRS radios.)

6.  You and your network should always notify each other when you’re going to be out of town and when you will return.

7.  The relationship should be mutual.  You have a lot to contribute!  Learn about each other’s needs and how to help each other in an emergency.  You can even collaborate on making preparations to be ready for a disaster.  

As always email your questions and comments to disasterprep.dave@gmail.com.