Tip - Plan Now for Emergencies
By Hklbrries
Q: I wanted to write and remind your readers to have a plan in place in case of natural disasters. I live in a hurricane-prone area, so I keep what I call a “hurricane kit” ready at all times. It’s stocked with first-aid supplies, food, water and other items that I can grab and throw into the car in case my family needs to evacuate. I also know the location of important papers so I can grab those, too. And I reserved a corner of my garage to store post-hurricane supplies like tarps, a generator and basic tools. I learned to do all this several years ago when a Category 3 hurricane passed through my town, but not until after the storm. Now I’m prepared before the storm. — Curtis F, Orlando
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A: Thanks for reminding us all, Curtis! Organization is key to surviving during and after a natural disaster, fire or other calamity. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Prepare your family for the most likely scenario depending on your geographic location: hurricane, tornado, blizzard, wildfire, flood or other event.
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Learn about and prepare for household emergencies, including fire, a gas leak, carbon monoxide leak, etc.
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Create an escape plan and rehearse it with your family.
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Create an evacuation kit that includes important papers, food, water, first aid, blankets and other essential items.
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Include pets in your plans! Add pet food and medicines to your evacuation kit, along with a copy of their vaccination record and license. And keep their carry crate accessible.
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If you must shelter in place during a disaster, designate your home’s safe spot (basement, central room, closet or bathtub, for example), and make sure everyone knows to get there quickly.
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Create a post-disaster supply stash that includes several tarps (to cover damaged roof areas or create temporary shelter), a generator, canned foods, water and first aid, and store in a reinforced area if possible. Store gasoline away from the house at all times.
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HOME TIP: The University of Missouri offers a free disaster plan template. Download it here: http://extension.missouri.edu/p/EMW1011
Ingredients
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Preparation
Step 1
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