Home >> News
Senator Tom Harkin: Be Prepared
9/23/2005
Senator Tom Harkin:
September is National Preparedness Month and in the past weeks we have
seen why having a solid emergency preparedness plan is of paramount
importance. The devastating aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is a
dramatic reminder that being prepared for emergencies can be a matter
of life and death. Disasters – both natural and unnatural – can strike
any place and at any time. It is more important then ever to be aware –
and be prepared.
Allow me to suggest some simple steps that you and your family can take
to prepare yourself and your family for a disaster. First and foremost,
you should have an emergency plan – a plan that every family member is
acquainted with. The Home Safety Council offers the following tips for
getting started:
* Assemble a disaster supplies kit which
may include the following:
– a cell phone and cell phone charger
– bottled water
– battery-operated radio and alarm
– flashlight and extra batteries
– dry and canned foods with a can opener
– first-aid kit
– medications
(ask your physician or pharmacist about how long medications can be
stored and under what conditions)
– copies of important papers and phone numbers
– blankets
– Consolidate
these supplies in easy to carry duffle bags or other protected
containers
– Post in a
prominent place a list of emergency contact phone numbers. Make copies
of this list for each member to carry in case they’re separated when
disaster strikes.
– If local
authorities advise you to leave, do so as quickly as possible, using
the evacuation routes advised on TV or radio. Bring medications, your
disaster supplies kit, personal identification, clothing, rain gear,
and other essentials.
* If disaster strikes remain calm, be patient, and put your plan into
action.
Take a few hours – soon – to prepare a plan, assemble emergency
supplies, and get prepared. And remember: The life you save may be your
own!
