Are You Prepared for a Disaster?

Studies indicate that those who are prepared for disasters have a greater chance of survival than those who are not prepared.

So how can your family be prepared for a disaster?

1. Be Informed.  What are the most likely disasters that could occur in your community?  What are the best safety practices that our family should enact if disaster threats happen in our community?  What risks do they impose on my family?   How can I mitigate the risks?
2. Make a Disaster Plan with your Family.  How will we respond in an emergency? Does everyone know what to do if a tornado siren is heard, if flash flooding is occurring, or what to do in an earthquake?   How will my family get to a safe area?  How will we get in touch after the disaster to ensure everyone is safe and accounted for, or where will we meet if phones or computers are not working? And remember, practice insures everyone understands how to implement the plan.
3. Put Together an Emergency Kit.  An emergency kit should include:

• 3-5-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day).
• 3-5 days of ready-to-eat food supplies
• a first aid kit
• paper plates, cups, and utensils
• toilet paper
• garbage bags
• flashlight with extra batteries
• plastic bucket with tight lid
• disinfectant
• household bleach
• battery operated radio with extra batteries
• 3-5 days of cash
• essential medications
• non-electric can opener
• pliers
• duct tape
• matches in waterproof container
• aluminum foil
• pencil and paper
• signal flare
• wrench to turn off gas and water
• water hose for siphoning
• candles
• good, sturdy shoes
• rain gear
• blankets or sleeping bags
• warm clothing
• box for important papers
• whistle for signaling

No one knows when a disaster will strike.  However, we can and should be prepared in the event a crisis happens. Being prepared, may save you and your loved ones.

One last note, even secular disaster entities concur that those with a spiritual foundation, survive better and recover in healthier ways during disaster events than those lacking a spiritual refuge.  So, the greatest way to be prepared for a disaster is to rest your life on the Solid Rock of Jesus Christ!