Emergency Preparedness
Posted on September 2, 2013 by bob in April 2010
Autumn in Alabama is often associated with tornadoes and hurricanes, and rightly so when we recall events of the past several years. Since these events unfold rapidly, we need to put into practice the old saying: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Start by knowing what emergencies are most likely to occur in your community.
Do you live in a flood plain? Are major highways usually blocked during bad weather? Find alternate routes for evacuation, and be familiar with the emergency alert systems in your community.
— Develop a preparedness plan based on family needs, taking into account special medical or other needs.
–Write the plan down, with current contact information, and give a copy to everyone involved.
— Practice the plan with family members, friends, and those for whom you provide care.
— Decide how contact will be made if land lines and cell phones are not working.
— Select a location or shelter where everyone will meet, and select an alternative to that location.
— Provide spare keys if these locations will be locked.
— Know locations of emergency shelters.
— Before evacuating, unplug appliances, turn off utilities and lock your home securely.
— Make copies of important documents, including health records for each family member.
— Make the following lists and keep them in a waterproof container or bag:
* contact list of all family healthcare providers
* names, doses and frequency of administration of all prescriptions and over-the-counter medication taken by each family member.
— Keep an emergency supply of medications on-hand, rotating monthly to assure freshness.
— Keep a basic first aid kit ready for travel and alert everyone to its location.
— Keep a supply of non-perishable food, rotating it every 3-6 months. Take water based on one gallon per person per day. Don’t forget pet food. Also, have a container with the following:
* flashlights
* portable (and weather) radio
* extra batteries
* matches in waterproof container, can opener, aluminum foil, plastic food bags, plates, utensils, trash bags, strong tape
* personal hygiene items including hand sanitizer, toilet tissue, unscented bleach
* extra clothing, raincoats, maps.
When you hear a warning, gather cash, cell phones and chargers, eyeglasses and personal items, any bedding and pet supplies such as leashes, carriers, and medications.
Your preparedness plan needs to be reviewed every year. Autumn in Alabama is a good time to do that.
Arlene Morris, EdD, RN, CNE
Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.
