With more and more military families buying the Go Stay Kit, we decided to post some useful information for them because they already know the value of being prepared.
Unlike the civilian population that has to be taught the value of emergency preparedness and resiliency, military families are ahead of the curve in this respect, they understand the importance of preparing themselves and their families for an emergency situation.
For Military Personnel here at home:
- Every time you’re posted to a new city, state etc., learn the types of emergencies that could happen there. Update your emergency kit accordingly, add new supplies if needed.
- Know that mass warning systems may not be the same everywhere in the U.S. It could be a “Giant Voice” outside speaker, siren, telephone alert, or some other system or process.
- You may or may not have family stationed with you, either way think carefully about a good meetup point or family check-in phone number.
- If you live off base, threat levels or other conditions may keep you from getting back on base after the emergency, plan for this eventuality.
- Gathering and recording important personal and financial documents is already a part of getting ready to deploy. Be sure to include these documents in your family’s emergency kit.
For Military Personnel stationed overseas:
- The emergency number is probably not 911. There may be different emergency numbers for on and off base/post. You and your family should know the right numbers to call.
- Your emergency kit should absolutely include things like passports, birth certificates for children born overseas, cash in the local currency, a card with local translations of basic terms, and an electric current converter.
- If you live off base, learn a few key phrases in the local language, and get to know neighbors who could let you know about an ongoing emergency.
- For an emergency that happens “outside the fence,” response (e.g., evacuations or shelter instructions) will be led by the local government. Cooperate with the local responders and follow their instructions.
