In an effort to help you and your family prepare now, here are some one-minute drills that are short on time, but big on impact.
Drill 1 – Get a Kit
The first move in being prepared it to buy a kit that best suits your family’s needs. There are many places that sell kits or you can buy one online. Once you have your kit, that’s it. You are already done with this step. Easy, right?
Drill 2 – Discuss Kit Rules
Once you get the kit, make sure that everyone knows where it is and that the items are to be used for emergencies only. You don’t want someone taking the water packet from the kit just because they don’t want to make the trip to the kitchen.
Drill 3 – Personalize Your Kit
Have each family member pick their favorite canned foods and personal items and add them to the kit.
Drill 4 – Make an Evacuation Plan
This is much easier and less time consuming than it seems. Pull out a map and highlighter and determine two or three destinations and the routes to get there.
Drill 5 – Be Informed
It is important to know what natural disasters can affect your area and what to do in the event of one striking. Read through the appropriate Disaster and Emergency guides. Watch the weather and stay on top of the news if a hurricane or other severe weather is predicted to come your way. If local authorities are telling you to evacuate, then EVACUATE! If you followed the drills above, then you already have an evacuation plan.
Tomorrow I’ll give you tips on what to do in case of an emergency or natural disaster.
