emergency preparation

When The World Goes To War

2011-07-06T05:03:00.000-07:00

A war is possibly the last thing anybody would want to live to experience. The world has already been a witness to several wars. As students, we have studied different wars and how the people during those times have lived. War times are definitely not good times.

Recently, different parts in the world have gone to war. We see different war footages on television and notice how the number of casualties exponentially rises up. Although almost everybody realize that there are no victors in wars, we can’t seem to totally eliminate the prospect of having to go to war.

Somebody famous once said, if we want peace, we have to prepare for war. But as mere civilians, we don’t have that much power to largely make a difference during war times. The most we could probably do is to prepare ourselves, if in case war breaks out suddenly.

Just like in preparing for natural calamities, we need to stock as much food and water as possible. Equally important are pieces of cloth that we could use to cover our mouth and nose, and sunglasses for our eyes as protection against dust particles brought about by bombings and the like.

On a larger scale, the government planning to involve in a war should have prepared emergency underground facilities. These facilities would contain grain silos and medical stockpiles. Civilians and injured soldiers are usually housed in one of these underground facilities.

Large cities in the United States have several underground centers that they could use during war emergency situations. Examples of these are the underground facilities near major railroads.

Aside from gun and ammo, the government should also equip themselves with machineries such as truck transportable bridges, mobile refineries, mobile decontamination services, and water purification systems. Other amenities such as petroleum supply are especially reserved for times of war.

Of course, the government will have to organize effective cooperation between its different civil services. The police, healthcare service, fire service and other public utility providers are expected to work together to ensure that civilians get as much protection as possible. Sometimes, able bodies might be requested to undergo special training programs to help protect the rest of the civilians.

War is such a large scale event that as individuals and small communities, we could only do so much. Most of the preparations involved are left to the national government and international security institutions. As citizens, we will be left with no choice but to follow where the government leads us in times of war. Collective effort is very important for survival.

Probably the most effective way of preparing for war is to disseminate information effectively and rapidly. Information on self-protection should be disseminated to the public. Concerned international authorities will also be able to benefit from information sharing. A large pool of information resources will be helpful for both parties, and would allow them to hopefully come into an agreement even before war could eventually break out.

Because of high technology, which greatly affects how the world goes to war, preparing for war is getting more and more complicated. We already have nuclear, chemical and biological weapons which can wipe out a continent within a few minutes. High walled palaces made of stone which used to protect early civilizations from war are not enough anymore with the severity of the damage which these weapons can cause.

Tsunami: What to Do and How to Survive

2011-07-03T05:03:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaTsunamis used to be the stuff of movies and until it's devastation in Asia, most people didn’t think it was possible for tsunamis to occur in that magnitude. With that realization, people have become aware of the risk and possible consequences of this natural calamity.

What is a tsunami?
Tsunamis are not caused by strong winds but by tectonic displacements (earthquakes, volcano eruptions, landslides) that occur on the seafloor. Earthquakes that produce tsunamis are those that reach 6.5 or more on the Richter scale. The average speed of the waves is 300 mph and can last from 5 minutes to an hour.

In open sea, tsunamis usually go unnoticed, having amplitudes of just 1 meter or even less. However, in some situations, waves that enter shallow water can swell to several feet and in some rare cases, rise high enough to strike coastal areas with terrible force.

Who's at risk?
People who live in coastal areas located along or near the Pacific Ocean are most prone to tsunamis. This area is most vulnerable because of seismic activity in what is called the Ring of Fire. It has also occurred in Puerto Rico, Alaska, Hawaii and the Virgin Islands.

What to do in a tsunami emergency
When a strong earthquake is felt, leave the water immediately, get to shore and go as far away as you can from the beach, fast. If your location allows it, go to a higher ground. If the area you are in is mostly flat, go as far inland as you can. If you can spot the wave, you are too close to escape it, regardless of its apparent distance.

Tune in to your local radio station, the weather radio or turn on the TV for news and updates. They will inform you if there is a tsunami watch or warning issued in your area and where the emergency centers are.

Locate all members of your family and make sure everyone is informed. Agree on a place to meet in case you're not together and make sure it's safe and as far away from the shore as possible.

If you have family members who have special needs like elderly people, small children or infants and those with disabilities, you might want to evacuate early. You might also want to prepare your pets for moving, so bring emergency supplies for them as well.

Check your emergency supply kits and bring them with you. It would be a good idea if they had been regularly restocked but if not, take what you can or get what is needed if you still have the time and opportunity. Otherwise, opt to get water, food and extra clothes instead.

You might want to secure your house, but remember that this is the last priority. Your life and that of your family's are the most important considerations during a tsunami emergency. Expect items in your house to be swept away and if you could still secure them, do so.

Tsunami watch vs. tsunami warning
A tsunami watch is different from a tsunami warning. A tsunami watch means that the presence of a dangerous tsunami is not yet confirmed or verified, although it is possible there is one. It also includes predictions on what time the tsunami is expected and where it will possibly strike.

A tsunami warning means that there is a confirmed tsunami in your area and it could be close. The warning will include the time at which the tsunami is expected and which areas are affected.

As a last emergency tip…
If you find yourself under the mercy of an incoming wave, climb onto the rooftop of your house or on the highest point of the nearest structure and brace yourself. Hold on tightly to anything that's strong and stable enough. Climb a tree if you have to and don’t let go.

If you're already in the water, grab a floating object that can hold your weight and hold onto it until you can reach stable ground or when help is available. Grab onto anything that is firm and strive to get out of the water as much as possible. The current will be strong and there could be heavy and sharp debris in the water that could crash into you.

Tsunamis, like most things nature produces, are uncontrollable. The only advantage is that they do come with a warning (a strong earthquake). The only way to survive it is to be prepared, be ready to go and to keep your wits about you.

Safety Emergency Preparation Tips When There is a Tornado

2011-06-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

From March to May of every year, the southern states are occasionally plagued by disastrous weather phenomenon known as tornadoes. For northern states, the risk comes during spring to the onset of summer.

Tornadoes are considered as storms. And you know that no storm is not violent. The dangers caused by tornadoes are not due to the gustiness of the winds but by sudden and unanticipated occurrence.

Unlike hurricanes, which are comparatively more powerful, the onset of a tornado can not be easily tracked. Satellite weather systems can not easily spot them because of their sudden development and their relatively smaller scale.

Thus, people can only tell that there is a tornado when they actually see one. Tornadoes are massive and destructive mass of air accumulating rapidly is a circular manner. The wind is so strong that almost everything that comes to the way of the tornado is easily flown into it.

How to tell if a tornado is approaching

Before any safety measure, it is imperative that you be knowledgeable about the appearance and the indicators of the presence of the violent weather phenomenon.

Take note that before a tornado hits an area, the wind may not be destructive minutes before the tornado hits the place. Often, before a tornado is observed, the wind may be very still. There may or may not be presence of rain.

Usually, tornadoes occur at the trailing end of a thunderstorm. Thus, if there is strong thunderstorm, be prepared on the possibility that a tornado may come anytime during of before the thunderstorm ends.

Because tornadoes are made up basically of strong and whirling winds, one can not easily see them. Often, reported cases indicate that the tornado appears like a cloud-like structure.

Tornadoes can be seen due to the debris and dust they have accumulated while tracking their courses. You may see the debris rotating in the air in circular, whirling motion.

Before a tornado hits an area, you can also hear loud roaring sound that is almost similar to an approaching freight train. The wind will also become turbulent and destructive.

Safety measures before a tornado

One indicator that a tornado will possibly hit an area is dark and often violet to greenish sky, which is prevalent during destructive thunderstorms.

When you see and feel the indications of an approaching tornado, find a safe shelter right away. Remember, tornadoes are destructive and fatal not merely because of the strong winds but because of the debris they have accumulated.

These debris vary from roof, to large rocks, to large chunks of trees. When people are hit by such debris, that is the time the tornado becomes fatal. So make sure the shelter you find would protect you from any such debris.

Safety measures during a tornado

Homes located in areas that are often hit by tornadoes almost always have basements. Basements offer reliable protection to people during tornadoes, so find one during an attack of a tornado.

If you are in your car, just get out and find a safe shelter. Or simply lie down on sturdy structure. Lie flat and cover the head with hands. Be alert and look out for falling debris coming from the tornado.

After the tornado, make sure any structure in your home is not significantly damaged. Otherwise, seek professional help all at once to ensure your safety.

Tornadoes are phenomenal that one can not prevent it from occurring. However, if you know the how-to's of being safe during such weather disturbances, you would avoid being one of the many casualties arising from such a weather turbulence.

Important Tips For Flood Emergency Preparation

2011-06-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

Strong tropical storms and hurricanes often cause flooding, even in areas that are not prone to such an event. With the extreme weather conditions that we are facing today, everybody should be prepared for anything, particularly flooding.

Here are the things you need to do to safeguard your home for flash floods:

Prevent water from entering your home

If you are expecting heavy rains or storms to hit your locality, particularly if you live in a flood-prone area, you should cover your doors, or even windows, with metal sheets, sandbags, or plywood. You can also use silicone sealant to ensure that water will not enter your home.

Shut off your utilities

You should remember to turn off all your utilities, such as gas, electricity and even water, at the mains. You should also remember to unplug all your electrical appliances and store them at high places, on the second floor, if possible.

Be mindful of your appliances and furniture

You need to ensure that your furniture and appliances are kept on high areas or upstairs. If you do not have a second floor, you can just raise such items on blocks or bricks. Be sure to remove carpets, curtains and even internal doors. Store them all in high places to ensure that they are protected from water.

Important papers, pictures and other personal items should also be placed on higher grounds, particularly on the second floor of your house. If not, you should put important papers on sealed bags to ensure that they are protected from floods.

Make sure that all objects outside your house, such as rakes, are kept in a safe place. Floodwater can easily float these items, which can pose danger to others.

Here are important things you need to do once you a flood warning has been issued:

•    Information is crucial during situations like these. Thus, you need to always listen to the radio for announcements and updates.

•    Be sure to cooperate fully with local authorities and emergency services. If they require you to evacuate, follow them and do not dillydally.

•    Since electricity will almost certainly be unavailable, you must ensure that you do all the things you need to do during the day. It is much more difficult and unsafe to do things in the dark.

•    Share the information with your neighbors, particularly the old people, so that they can also prepare themselves.

•    Be sure to stay inside your house. Floodwater can kill, especially when it is raging, so do not attempt to go out. It is important to note that rapid flowing water that is six inches high could make you fall, while two feet of water could make your car float.

•    Ensure that your pets and cars are in a safe location. Once you heard of flood warning, you should stay on the second floor of your house.

•    There maybe objects floating in the water, so do not attempt to swim through raging flood. You can either be swept away or be knocked over by objects that are in the water.

•    Floodwater may be dirty and contaminated with sewage, so you should avoid contact if possible. It would be a shame that you survived the flooding, but fell ill because of contaminated water.

•    River bridges, sea defenses, and riverbanks are very dangerous places to be in during floods, so be sure to steer away from them if possible. There have been many cases wherein floodwater have destroyed or collapsed bridges and defenses.

Tips For Preparing Your Family For Fire Emergencies

2011-06-22T23:16:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of people die every year because of fire-related incidents, especially during the Christmas season. Thus, it is very important for us to be prepared for such emergencies. Each member of our family should know what to do in case of fire. More importantly, all of us need to know what to do to prevent fire.

Plan Ahead

One of the most important things that parents forget to teach their children is to prepare for emergencies, such as fire. Even at a young age, children should already be taught how to prevent fire and what to do in case there is fire. Fire drills have often been conducted in buildings and schools to help prepare building occupants and students in case of fire, so why can't you have a fire drill in your home?

The first step is to check your house for possible fire exits. See if the windows and doors in your house are big and tall enough to be used as possible fire exits. Make a floor plan for each room, ensuring that there are at least two ways to get out of the room to escape fire. In making the floor plan, you need to include crucial details, such as stairs, windows and hallways.

After devising a floor plan, you should meet your children and discuss your fire escape plan. You should also make sure that your family has devised a way of warning other members of fire, such as bells, door tapping, etc. It would be best if each bedroom of your house has a flash light and a bell. Lastly, select a safe place outside the house where everyone will go after escaping the fire.

Preparing your family for fire emergencies

It is wise to act out your evacuation plan with the whole family. Teach your children how to stay close to the ground while escaping and is possible, let them memorize the way. Sometimes, the smoke caused by fire would make it very difficult to see the way, so it would really be wise if you and children know the way by heart.

You and your children should also know that during fire, you should feel the door first before opening it. You should not open the door if it is hot. Instead, find another way you could escape your room or house.

If the clothes of your children or any family member catch fire, tell them to fall to the ground and roll. This will help extinguish the fire.

Make your house safe from fire

Make sure that emergency numbers are placed near telephones. Such numbers should always be accessible and visible so that you can call authorities immediately when a fire breaks out.

You should also ensure that smoke detectors are installed in key places in your house. Once smoke detectors are installed, you should check their batteries once in a while. Usually, the batteries of smoke detectors should be changed yearly.

Place fire extinguishers in key locations. If your house has several floors, ensure that there is at least one fire extinguisher per floor.

It would really be best if smoking is prohibited inside the house because many incidences of fire are caused by improperly discarded cigarettes. However, if smoking cannot be helped, make sure that nobody smokes in the bed. Furthermore, let everyone know how to properly discard cigarette butts.

No matter how many times you have taught your children that matches and lighters are dangerous, some will still play with them. Thus, it is advisable to keep all lighters and matches in places that your children cannot access. If possible, put them in locked drawers or cabinets.

Tips on What You Should Do During Earthquake Emergencies

2011-06-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaScientists have not yet really determined a way to predict an earthquake. That is why, when a strong earthquake strikes, a lot of people gets injured, or even killed, and properties gets damaged. The only thing we can do, if we live in an area near fault lines, is to be prepared everyday for such eventualities.

Here are the things you should do to prepare for an earthquake:

Prepare an emergency kit

You will never know what will happen after a quake, thus, you should always have an emergency kit for everyone in your household. Each kit must contain at least one gallon of water, food supply for at least three days (you should select non-perishable food), and first aid kit.

You should ensure that you regularly change the food and water in your emergency kit. The food and water in your kit will be of little use if they are already not fit to eat or drink. Instead of saving your life, such might even exacerbate your situation.

Know the mains of your utilities

Earthquake might cause fire from gas leaks and electricity. Thus, it is important that you know where the main switches of your utilities are so that you can turn them off when needed.

Inspect your house for cracks and fissures

You must regularly check the condition of your house to ensure that it can withstand even a strong earthquake. Be sure to have the cracks on your walls, chimney and even door frames fixed. If you live in an apartment, report cracks and fissures to your landlord immediately, so that he or she can do something about the situation.

Have an evacuation plan

You and your family must make an emergency plan for disasters, such as fire, floods, and earthquakes. Each member of the family should know what to do in case of such incidents. You will be able to protect your family more if you prepare them earlier. Panic and confusion can often lead to injuries accidents.

Here are the things you should do during an earthquake:

The first thing you and your family should do is to stay away from objects that might fall off. Stay away from book cases, cabinets, and hanging objects, such as chandeliers, or ceiling fan.

During an earthquake, it is wiser that you stay put, particularly under sturdy tables or door frames. Do not run around or even attempt to get out of the house. There are more dangerous things outside your house that could injure you, such as lampposts and cars.

Make sure that the emergency kit that you prepared is easily accessible. If possible, place it in a location where you and your family will run into during a quake.

Stay away from the kitchen. One of the most dangerous places in the house during an earthquake is the kitchen because there are many pots and pans hanging around and drawers full of knives and cutlery. Furthermore, there is a danger of a gas leak in the kitchen that might cause fire.

What to do after the earthquake
Do not attempt to light a match or a candle immediately after the quake; you are not sure if there are gas leaks. Lighting up a match might ignite a fire, so be very careful. If you can, shut off the main gas valve if you smell gas.

If you suspect a gas leak, open the windows and evacuate your house immediately. You should also call the gas company once you are away from the gas leak. Do not try to call, especially using your mobile phone, near gas leaks.

There will sure be aftershocks after an earthquake, so do not let your guard down even if your house is intact and all the members of your family are well. Be sure to check the news for information about the quake and other important updates.

Tips For Emergency Preparation During Severe Climate Changes

2011-06-05T04:53:00.000-07:00

Due to global warming and other factors, the changes in our climate have become drastic. We have seen the devastation of properties and cities. Many lives have also been lost due to super typhoons and hurricanes, which caused flooding, and extremely hot weather condition, which caused heat wave. Since we are no longer sure what type of weather will hit our locality, all of us should be prepared for whatever situation certain climate changes and situations would bring.

Tips for preparing for hurricanes and storms

Check your house

Our house is our sanctuary during storms; thus, we need to regularly check the integrity of our roofs, walls, etc even before the hurricane season arrives. Since our house is our only defense against heavy rains and strong winds, we need to ensure that it can withstand severe weather conditions, especially if we live in hurricane prone areas.

Once a hurricane warning has been issued, we need to start boarding up our windows and doors. We also need to shut off our gas and electricity and make sure that all objects that can fall or fly around must be removed.

Prepare for provisions

When a hurricane warning has been issued, you need to make sure that you and your family has enough water and food to last for days. Be sure that the food you will be stocking up are those that can be eaten even without cooking and does not need to be refrigerated. Moreover, you need to make sure that you have enough potable water for you and your family.

Aside from food, you need to prepare for candles, matches, flashlights and batteries. In order for you to be always informed on what is happening, you need to have a battery-operated radio available.

Heed government warnings

If the government has called for an evacuation, do not think twice. Follow the advice of the government. Just make sure that your home is properly secured before you leave.

Tips for preparing for heat wave

Extremely hot weather can be dangerous, particularly for young children, old people, and those with certain health conditions, such as mental illness, heart and breathing problems.

Listen to the news

We need to closely monitor the situation and wait for warnings and bulletins issued by the government. Many people have died because they did not know that there is a heat wave and it was unsafe for them to go out during the hottest part of the day.

Stay out of the sun

It is really advisable to stay indoors when there is a heat wave. If you must go out, you need to ensure that you are wearing proper clothing and have a protection against the sun, such as a hat or an umbrella. You also need to schedule your day well so that you will be indoors from 11pm to 3pm, the hottest part of the day.

Shower up

Take a cold bath or shower several times a day. If you cannot do that, just wash your face and nape with cool water occasionally or whenever you feel hot.

Regularly check on your elderly relatives and neighbors

Old people are usually the ones who succumb to heat wave, thus you need to check your old relatives or neighbors once in a while. See if they are drinking plenty of water and are feeling well. If you cannot physically visit them, you can always call them during the day and constantly remind them to follow health bulletins for heat wave.

What Do You Do When A Volcano Erupts Tomorrow?

2011-06-01T05:40:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaVolcanic eruptions are one of the powerful disasters nature can bring. Volcanic eruptions are catastrophic enough that it can wipe out several towns in a few hours. They can also cause temporary changes in the Earth’s climate.

Volcanologists are the scientists who study volcanoes. They predict the possibility of a volcanic eruption as well as the severity. However, Volcanologists can not always exactly forecast when and where the next volcanic eruption will occur. That is why, it is important to know the basics in on how to prepare for an emergency volcanic eruption.

1. First, you need to be at least familiar with the terms associated with volcanic eruptions. These will be very helpful in understanding news about volcanic eruptions.

Volcanic ash refers to small dust particles or large pieces of rocks which are erupted to the air and carried down together with volcanic gases. These volcanic ashes can corrode metals, decompose fabrics, clog machineries, block water intakes and drains, and of course kill vegetation.

Pyroclastic flows are those streams of molten volcanic rocks. These flow at hurricane velocity. Because of their high temperature and speed, they can destroy everything in their path.

2. Coordinate with your local emergency team to check for any areas in your region which are prone to pyroclastic flows and volcanic ash.

3. If the volcano is starting to show some signs of eruption, do not go anywhere near it. As mentioned above, Volcanologists could not precisely predict the time a volcano may erupt. You can get immediately killed by a sudden eruption.

4. Follow your local government’s advise when they say you need to evacuate. You should avoid lower areas, especially to those places downwind. Although high infrastructures, such as tall buildings can offer protection from volcanic ash, these are not enough shelter for rock debris and lava flows.

5. As much as possible, do cross a bridge because of the danger caused by mudflows. If you need to cross bridges, look upstream first and ensure that no mudflow is approaching. Take note that mudflows move faster than you can ever run.

6. If the volcano has started emitting volcanic ash, do not go outside until the ash has settled. Also, avoid opening any windows and doors in the house.

7. Once the air is clear, immediately remove any volcanic ash which may have settled on your rain gutters and roofs. Volcanic ash can be disastrous if they have thickly accumulated on your rooftops. In addition, these can cause severe respiratory diseases, especially to infants and old people with lung problems.

8. If you need to drive, avoid areas which have already been heavily covered with dust. Maintain a speed slower than 30 mph.

9. Of course, you need to prepare enough food and water to last for several days. You would also need spare batteries and dust masks. You can use extra clothing to cover your head and thin cloths to breathe with.

When news of volcanic eruption is out, be sure that you are always prepared wherever you maybe. Arm yourselves with enough knowledge to reduce the great impact that a volcanic eruption have. Always listen to the radio for updates and advice on how you can safely overcome this disaster.

Volcanic eruption preparations do not stop after the volcano has erupted. Once the disaster is over, there are a lot of cleanup operations needed. Recovering from a volcanic eruption takes a long time. Cooperation within your community is needed.

Prepare for a flood the best way you could

2011-05-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaBelieve it or not, floods are the natural disasters that is most common in America.
According to statistics, more than a hundred people are killed by floods every year. Also, more than four billion dollars are the cost damages caused by floods.

All this is according to the Red Cross of the United States.

The following are few tips and advice you could do in order to prepare yourself for any flood inevitability.

Expect the expected

It is important that you clearly understand and that you are aware of any damages that a flood could cause. Some of these inevitabilities include boulders that are rolling, trees that are ripped right out from the ground, buildings that are destroyed as well as bridges, sliding debris.

Do not be afraid to ask

It is also vital that you ask around your local zoning and planning office as to whether the property you are on is below the level of the flood or above it. Also, it is always good to know if the area you are in has had a history of being flooded.

This knowledge helps a lot in the preparation of activities and tasks to do in case if a flood does hit.

Familiarize yourself

In your own community, it is best that you familiarize yourself in any or all of the warning signals or signs whenever a flood does occur.

Learn, learn, learn

Know what are your community’s plan for evacuation. This helps you prepare yourself as well as your family and friends as on what to do as well as the step by step drill.

Have an insurance

It helps if you have insurance that is tailored particularly when a flood occurs. Believe it or not, the insurance usually associated with home owners will really not be able to reimburse any damages you may have that are caused by floods.

Keep all vital documents

These documents include any policies for insurance, passports, birth certificates, etc.
All these papers should – as much as possible – be kept in a box that is waterproof and one which could be accessed easily.

Move, move, move

If in case your fireplace, furnace, electricity panel or water heater is in the basement or 1st floor of your house, you could consider moving it up the attic.

In that way it will be a lot less probable for these to be damaged by raging floodwaters.

Plug it all

Plugging all trap sewers you have in your house using check valves actually prevent any floodwater from going into the drains of your house. During emergencies, using large stoppers or corks is also a good idea to plug tubs and sinks.

Check and build

Checking with the local codes of buildings is a good idea as this will let you know whether it is okay to build walls for floods and to be used as barriers around your own house in order to prevent any floodwater from getting in your premises.

Waterproof it all

In order to protect walls of basements, seal them using waterproof compounds so that floodwaters would be unable to get in through any cracks.

Have a radio and some supplies

As much as possible, keep a radio that is operated by batteries if in case the power goes off.

Having supplies such as canned goods is a must as well as first aid kits. Do not forget a can opener of course.

All in all, preparation is always the best defense against floods.

Fire Emergency Preparation for Schools

2011-05-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaA fire can occur at any place even if there are systems in place such as smoke alarms and water sprinklers. Should this happen in the school where the person is working in, it will be a good idea to review the emergency preparation plans.

The fire emergency preparation plan involves two things. These are namely information and delegation. The first thing the individual should do is read the manual and note where are the nearest exits. This is usually posted in each classroom with lighted signage’s showing the way.

This matter should also be discussed with fellow faculty and staff if certain improvements can be suggested. It is only after a well thought of plan is made that this should be explained to the students.

The sad part is there will be some people who will not take the matter seriously. This should be firmly stressed because this could mean a matter of life or death to everyone when this happens. .

There may be fire drills conducted once a year but these are not done on a regular basis. This means that many will panic when the real thing happens so preparedness is something that should not be taken lightly.

Delegation depends on who first noticed the fire until the evacuation has been done. If there is smoke coming out of one room, the individual should not open the door because oxygen will just make the fire stronger causing a back draft and a possible explosion.

The individual should immediately call 911 and pull the fire switch so that the teachers and the students are alerted of the danger. Some classes may order everyone to form a line in the back then proceed out slowly to safety by moving to the nearest fire exit.

There are fire extinguishers usually situated along the hallways or in the classrooms. These can be used to handle small fires but should not be used to handle bigger ones because there is not enough to kill the blaze. The person should not try to be a hero but rather help get other people out.

There will usually be a lot of smoke making it difficult to see what is in front. To avoid suffocating, it will be a good idea to put something to cover the face and then use the sense of touch to get the feel of what is in front.

Elevators should never been used in the event of a fire. The power could short out keeping the person trapped inside and even cause death due to smoke inhalation. All personnel should use the stairs since this is the fastest way to get out.

Should someone be caught on fire, the individual should help by putting a heavy blanket to put out the flames. If this should happen to the person, the right thing to do would be to stop, drop and roll.

The last part of any fire preparation plan is the assembly point where everyone in the class should meet so everyone can be accounted for. Everyone should stay put until someone with higher authority issues the order that it is safe to go back inside.

Everyone should be well aware of the fire emergency preparation plan since this is the only way to get out of a dangerous situation.

Emergency Preparedness For a Hurricane

2011-05-16T03:01:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaThere is nothing anyone can do when nature decides to leash out its fury. There is no way to stop it so people should brace for the worse and seek shelter.

In order to minimize the loss of life, most towns and cities have created emergency plans. Sirens are placed in strategic locations to announce a major evacuation; the emergency broadcast system is in place in the event that power and electricity has been cut off as well as stockpiles of food, water and medicine.

Those who live in the coastal communities will usually be battered by hurricanes. This happens between the months of June until November in the Atlantic and from May to November in the northern Pacific Ocean.

When this is first spotted on radar, the forecaster will already inform the public about it. There is no need yet to panic here since the weather conditions may change in the next few hours but if there are no improvements, it is time to activate emergency procedures.

The hurricane may pack winds exceeding more than a 100 miles per hour that can make cars, pieces of metal or wood cause severe damage to the home. Households can board up the windows and doors of the house with hurricane shutters and plywood.

People will rush to the supermarket to stock up on food, water and other essentials. These include candles, batteries for the radio and the flashlight as well as fuel for the generator.

All of these things are necessary especially water to prevent dehydration so every possible container must be used including the bathtub.

The most important which must never be forgotten is a medical kit. This should have bandages and some antibiotics to be able to treat anyone who is ill or injured until the person can be brought out to a medical facility for better treatment.

Should the incoming hurricane be classified as a category 4 or 5, residents are advised to evacuate and seek higher ground. It will be a good idea to travel light so only a few pieces of clothing, food and water must be brought into the vehicle.

The citizens are also advised to drive slowly and avoid panicking since this could cause accidents on the road.

The hurricane will pass within a few hours. This is the only time that people will be able to go out or return to see how much damage was done.

It is only after assessing the damage that towns and cities can say whether the emergency preparedness procedures that were sent in place were effective or not. One indication that it works is if no casualties are reported. This is because a house or even a building can be repaired but the life of an individual can never be replaced.

The people who live in the household can rehearse the emergency preparedness plan to see if some improvements need to be made. This is because time is off the essence in order to be safe in this type of crisis.

Emergency preparedness is key to ensure the survival of everyone present. People who live through this annually know what to do but those who are moving into the community should learn fast to be able to survive the onslaught of the hurricane.

Tips on earthquake emergency preparation

2011-05-15T02:31:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaThe year 1906 was a determining factor in how future resident of the San Francisco area would live their lives. Will they be able to sleep peacefully at night knowing that anything can happen between the time they slept and the time they will be awake. But the question for most people is the possibility that they may never wake up again.

The same goes for the people in Mexico, Baguio in the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan and other countries that have been victimized by strong earthquakes. Most of these people were caught unaware and this made the disaster more disastrous.

San Franciscans are aware that someday, their city will fall into the depths of the city. But why do they continue to live in a city, which though beautiful, is a catastrophe waiting to happen again?

Most of the people living in earthquake-prone areas prefer to live each day with the thought that they might never wake up again. However, what makes them different from majority of the people living safe lives in safe places is the fact that they are aware that a tragedy like an earthquake may strike them anytime and they are prepared for it.

These people party and live life to the fullest but they made sure they live in earthquake-safe buildings. Most of the high rise establishments were constructed with a strong earthquake in mind

Jason, a technology specialist lives in the Marina area which is the most earthquake-prone area in the city. While he accepts that he is taking a big risk living in that area, he takes no chances and always stores several gallons of water nearby.

He has also prepared earthquake packs and emergency kits containing first aid medicines as well as food packs that can be eaten right out of the packet. He also has extra flashlights, batteries and other thing-a-magics guaranteed to make any normal person flip out.

The most important thing to remember during an earthquake is to duck and keep off everything heavy that may fall on anyone. However, there are other earthquake emergency tips that will benefit any person who would be faced with an emergency earthquake situation at any time in his life.

When faced with an earthquake circumstance, it is always better to seek refuge from tables that can protect a person from heavy objects that are falling from everywhere. When this is however not practical, a person should immediately go out and proceed to an open area without the danger of falling trees, high rises or power cables.

Those who are caught driving when an earthquake occurs would be better off if they stay inside their car. When inside a grocery or a mall, make sure that the person is away from heavy shelves and other objects. When inside a theater or a sports stadium and an earthquake occurs, never run for safety and join the hundreds of people doing the same. Duck under the seat and wait until everything clears up.

A lot of people get hurt or even die not because of the earthquake itself but because of panic and failure to prepare for such an emergency. It is always helpful to have an emergency earthquake plan even if earthquakes are not common in the area.

Survival will always depend on how prepared a person is for emergencies. People who have not prepared for the worse case scenario are the ones who have the tendency to panic. And in most cases, those who panic and lose their presence of mind become the first victims of any emergency,

Stay Alive: Earthquake Emergency Preparation Tips

2011-05-13T18:58:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaEarthquakes are among the most devastating natural disasters. What makes it more annihilating is the fact that there is no precise way of predicting when an earthquake may occur. The most effective tactic to minimize the effects of earthquakes in human lives is to make adequate earthquake emergency preparations.

During an earthquake, you will feel the ground shaking or rolling. If the movement of the
Earth's crust is really violent, you might even hear the ground rumbling or roaring. These earthquake characteristics may cause you to panic and eventually jeopardize your chance of survival. While strong and devastating earthquakes seldom happen, even in places located in the Earth's ring of fire, it is imperative that you have an emergency plan so that you and your family can stay safe. Here are a few pointers to remember to keep you prepared for an earthquake.

Practice Makes Safety

The key to being safe during an earthquake is having quick reaction. As soon as the ground shakes violently, you should know what to do as if by instincts. To be able to react fast during earthquakes, you must regularly conduct earthquake drills. This will keep you on your feet when the real thing comes.

Plan Your Home Structure

If you are living in a place that is frequented by earthquakes, you must plan your home in such a way that it will not become your deathbed. Use light materials for your home and provide ample exit ways to run to during emergencies. Collapsing home and building materials commonly cause injuries and deaths during earthquakes; and to avoid this, you must make sure that most of your home structure and appliances are not heavy enough to crush you.

Make sure also that your place has strong doorways or doorframes; as statistically these places are the most likely places that can withstand earthquakes. Fasten tall and heavy fixtures to the wall. And ensure that your cabinets have latches so that whatever they contain will not fall out during an earthquake.

Plan For Everybody

Everybody in your office or home should know your emergency plan for an earthquake. Make sure that everybody understands the procedures to perform whenever the big shaker happens. Coordination is an important survival aspect particularly after the earthquake.

Know Your Place

Knowing where to run and hide for cover during an earthquake may save your life and limbs. Learn the safe spots of your home or office. And practice going to these safe spots so that you can immediately react by going into these places during an actual earthquake.

Also plan a meeting place for your officemates or family where all of you can gather yourselves up after an earthquake.

Delegate Responsibilities

In your office or within your family, assign duties that everybody must perform during earthquakes. Earthquake preparation should never be a one-man job. Your officemates and family members should be made to understand of what to do, especially if you are not with them during an earthquake.

Have Emergency Kits On Standby

Finally, you must have a number of emergency kits ready in the office or at home. These kits must have the bare essentials that can help preserve life during emergencies. From drinking water, food, to first aid materials, your emergency kits will be your lifelines. Make sure that everybody knows where these emergency kits are kept.

Vital steps in preparation for an industrial emergency

2011-05-11T04:48:00.000-07:00

First things first, the fact of the matter is that there are great benefits to be had when there is guidance and ample preparation in cases of an emergency.

Planning and preparation helps industries and corporation discover any hazardous problems or conditions that could be unrecognized and if not paid attention to could possibly aggravate a situation.

When there is preparation, deficiencies are immediately brought to light.

Some of these deficiencies could include resource-lack (e.g. lack of personnel that are adequately trained, lack of supplies, lack of equipment, to name a few). Knowing these details beforehand helps correct any lack in the soonest possible time.

It also prevents major losses and casualties as well as financial organizational collapse.

Another advantage of preparing for an industrial emergency is that it helps promote appropriate safety and awareness among the workers as well as present a company that is concerned with the welfare of all its staff.

The following are some of the needed steps designed to assist industrial plants as well as businesses in preparing for any type of emergency.

Establish a team

As much as possible, set-up a good planning team. A leader as well as a staff must be chosen as based on their appropriate capabilities and skills.

Particular tasks should also be assigned to teams or individuals.

Analyze hazards and capabilities

It is also important to assess the preparations the industrial plant or the organization currently has against risks such as power failure, damage in structures, among others.

In an emergency such as flooding, contacting the manager of the local floodplain as well as other flood officials helps organization and industries learn the risks involved.

Using building materials that are flood-resistant, erecting a physical barrier as well as anchoring structures and tanks is one of the ways to prepare in advance for flood emergencies.

Meanwhile, preparing against high winds is by reinforcing the roof as well as the side panels. Covering windows is also important, covering the doors and removing any objects that are loose from the industrial plant’s site is a must.

Have a backup

As much as possible, have a backup emergency power such as a battery storage, power and heat system combined. It is also vital that contact utility info be obtained in case of a power outage.

The plan should be developed

It is important that there is a plan developed during, before as well as after a particular emergency. Protocols should be established for the welfare of the employees, especially their safety and similarly the readiness of the site.

Emergency power should also be updated as well as the options for power supply. Communication emergency systems must also be established.

Responsibilities for each staff with regards to the recovery, shutdown and restart procedure should be outlined.

An evacuation plan should also be developed including employee support. Procedures on shutting down the utility and the safe processing of operations is a necessity.

Methods in protecting records, inventory and materials must also be developed.

Plan implementation

Staying in touch with the operations emergency center on your own state is important.

In this stage, the appropriate preparation, shutdown, emergency backup and evacuation should be started.

All in all, the final stage is the recovery process and the assessment of the damages brought by the emergency as well as in prioritizing needed repairs. Hopefully, the procedures above helps in the adequate preparation of industries and organization.

Surviving the Imperfect Storm: Tips for Emergency Preparations

2011-05-10T05:20:00.000-07:00

Emergency Preparedness Evaluation-Urban Survival Part 1/4

2011-05-03T03:07:00.000-07:00

Importance of climate change emergency preparation

2010-10-27T04:47:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

The world is getting smaller everyday because of the technological advancements of mankind. However, the same factors responsible for making human life and the human race better is also responsible for the degradation of the environment.

Man has been exposed to a more comfortable life and he wants more. He may have everything he needs to live a better and more comfortable life but he is becoming greedy to the point of wanting more than what Mother Nature can afford.

The environmental disasters that are reported in different countries almost every day should serve as a wake up call to humanity that perhaps, they should now be more considerate of the environment. Mother Nature may be generous but she can also become angry and vindictive when she has reached the saturation point.

The strong typhoon, earthquake, soil erosion leading to the collapse of residential areas are just some of the common disasters that are actually caused by men. Illegal logging, the throwing of industrial wastes in the rivers, increased used of un-biodegradable materials are only among the few sins mankind has committed against nature.

Evidence will point out to the fact that environmental retribution will most likely behold mankind soon and he should be prepared for a major disaster brought about by climate change anytime now or in the future.

The issue on the greenhouse effect is not just propaganda in order for environmentalist groups to earn their funding requirement. Global warming is upon us and this can be gleamed from the major environmental changes like too much heat, too much cold and other phenomenon that mankind is faced with.

But no matter what mankind does now, he can ever revert global warming; he can only delay it. What is important is mankind knows the possible effects of climate change and what can be done to alleviate the negative effects.

Climate change can lead to emergencies like the increasing level of the sea water, forest fires and other manifestations. When this happens, the scientists and world leaders should have an emergency program that they can implement to make sure that lives are not lost and properties are not wasted.

The first thing to do is to launch a massive information campaign to make the whole world aware of what is happening in the environment as a result of climate change. People should know what to expect in terms of the possible environmental disasters as well as the possible diseases that may be caused by climate change.

The best emergency preparation kit for people all over the world is knowledge. Knowledge on what is about to befall them once the effects of climate change becomes manifest in our environment would help societies lessen the brunt of the anger of Mother Nature.

Every country should prepare for any emergency brought about by climate change. Even the first world countries that have all the technology would have a hard time facing this disaster. How much more the third world countries that are not even past the problem of providing food resources for their citizens?

Every household should be taught how to prepare for climate change emergencies. They should no longer rely on their governments to see them through the effects of climate change because once that happens, there may be a possibility that even government will become debilitated to act.

Everyone has to act now. They do not have a choice.

The Basic Guide on Civil War Emergency Preparation

2010-10-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Peace has become an elusive dream for the whole world especially now that the world powers are scampering for world supremacy. Each powerful nation seems to have a secret nuclear arsenal that is on standby in case some other super country is prepared to expose its own nuclear power.

While people all over the world should be concerned about a third world war that will surely be swift considering the use of the nuclear arsenal of every powerful country, people however have to be prepared for something just brewing around the corner.

The risk of a civil war erupting in just about any country is an ever present risk that should be looked into not only by world leaders and the church but also by every person concerned about the safety of his community.

Some countries like Africa have become numbed to strife including civil wars that they no longer anticipate when it is going to happen again. War has displaced more than twenty five million Africans, most of whom live in evacuation camps, with nary a decent roof to shelter even the children.

Like any other war, Civil war can be deadly and can affect majority of the population especially children who could not fend for themselves. Every civil war carries with it human rights abuses from both military and civilians.

The tragedy resulting from every Civil War the world has known is so encompassing. Take this: four million Sudan residents displaced, more than two million lives lost; more than 70 million people in Ethiopia hungry; add the millions of people suffering in Somalia and Ethiopia. This is the face of civil war and every person has to prepare for such an eventuality.

Every family should create an emergency plan no matter what emergency should arise. They should not rely on their governments if they do not want to suffer separation, suffering and death in the government-designated evacuation camps.

Families should consider taking survival courses which may include self defense lessons as well as gun firing lessons. Gun firing can be a family affair although children should be cautioned against the dangers of using guns in ordinary circumstances.

A family would b e better off preparing an emergency first aid kit which should contain the basic medicine for ordinary illnesses. However, a family should from special illnesses like diabetes or asthma and include the basic lie saving and maintenance medicines in the safety kit.

People who live in places that are susceptible to civil war and other emergencies should also pack a special kit which should contain sturdy shoes for family members, maps, all-purpose knife or a Swiss Knife would be better, canned goods, and basic toiletries like soap.

Take every important thing but take only the basic necessities because when a civil war erupts, there may be a chance that the family would be displaced and may b e forced to survive for weeks or even months on the road escaping violence.

Preparing for the eventuality of a civil war is not like courting danger or wishing for it to happen. Rather, it is making sure that the family increases its survival rate when such event happens. It is always better to be prepared for any emergency and if it does not happen at all, then who cares of the family has spent hundreds or perhaps even thousands for the emergency kit. It is all well worth it.

emergency preparation

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Tsunami: What to Do and How to Survive

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Tips For Preparing Your Family For Fire Emergencies

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