Preparing a home disaster plan... just in case

By Jean Newton

When disaster strikes, as it did with the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, the fear of potential future threats can become a focal point for stress. While the recent color-coded alert for terrorist activities issued by the newly created Office of Homeland Security is designed to keep people informed, it also adds to the worry factor. Putting together a disaster preparedness plan can help alleviate uncertainty and provide some sense of security for individuals and families.

Whether it's an earthquake, a terrorist attack or another kind of disaster, it's important to be prepared with an action plan and necessary supplies. The American Red Cross, well-known for its disaster relief efforts around the world, has prepared some guidelines to help meet disaster straight on. Their website , at www.redcross.org, provides detailed information about what to do in case of a disaster or emergency.

The first step is to determine which potential disasters could strike, then discuss them with family members and develop a plan of action. In California, the possibility of an earthquake is high on the list, while in the Midwest tornadoes might take the top disaster spot. After the events of Sept. 11, it is all too clear that the unexpected is possible as well.

Making sure communication lines are open between family members is important. Choosing an out-of-town contact for each family member to call in case of an emergency or disaster will facilitate contact since local phone lines may be jammed. Every family member should carry a list of all contact information, including email addresses, in case phones are not an option. It's a good idea to post important phone numbers as well as emergency numbers beside every telephone and teach children how and when to call 911.

In addition, selecting two meeting places--one outside the home and one outside the neighborhood--will alleviate confusion, especially if the affected area must be evacuated. Thinking ahead about what to do with pets is advised, since many shelters or hotels will not accept them.

While sometimes areas are evacuated, other times people are asked to stay at home. Packing a disaster supplies bag will satisfy either option. When faced with making a home into a shelter, it's good to be prepared with essential supplies.

The American Red Cross recommends putting disaster supplies into an easy-to-carry duffel bag or a small plastic trashcan. Items should include first-aid supplies, a change of clothing for each household member, a sleeping bag or bedroll for each, and a battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries. Additionally, special needs items such as infant formula or prescription medications should be included, along with food, bottled water and tools.

Putting some cash and copies of important papers such as birth certificates, passports, and licenses in the kit is recommended. Copies of these important papers should also be kept in a safe location outside a home, either in a safe deposit box or at the home of a friend or family member who lives out of town.

There are other proactive steps to take to prepare for a disaster and minimize damage to a home. Taking a home safety check will help identify whether there is anything that can become a potential hazard in the event of an earthquake or other disaster.

The American Red Cross, in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, provides the following tips for identifying and fixing hazards in the home: Repair defective electrical wiring or leaky gas connections; securely fasten shelves; put large, heavy objects on lower shelves; hang pictures and mirrors away from beds; brace overhead light fixtures; bolt bookcases, china cabinets and tall furniture to the wall; secure water heaters and strap them to wall studs; repair cracks in ceilings or foundations and clean and repair chimney flues, pipes and vents.

In addition to securing the home, every family member should know how to shut off the utilities and know where the main switches are for water, gas and electricity.

Developing a home evacuation plan that identifies the best escape route as well as knowing which is the safest place inside the home for each kind of disaster is important. Practicing evacuation for fire and other emergencies is recommended. It's also a good idea to test fire extinguishers and smoke detectors on a monthly basis and be sure to change the batteries once a year. Stored water and food should be replaced every six months.

When disaster strikes, it's time to remain calm and put the plan into action. After checking for injuries and giving first aid, listen to a battery-powered radio for news and instructions, then check for damage in the home. Use the phone only for life-threatening emergencies, after calling the family contact number. Follow the advice of local emergency officials.

While no one knows when the next disaster will occur, the potential is always there. That's why, in addition to developing a good disaster preparedness plan, the American Red Cross urges community members to also prepare by taking a first-aid or CPR class. One of the organization's main goals is to have at least one person in each of the nation's 75 million households trained in first aid, CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). In 2001, the organization prepared millions to respond to emergencies.

"Having millions of people trained in vital lifesaving skills makes every one of us a little safer, at home and at work," said Harold Decker, interim president and CEO of the American Red Cross.

Photo: Fishing at Vasona

Carl Heintze: The Third Place

West Valley students can earn certificates online

Local Home Sales Listings

Engagements

Picture From the Past

Sports Briefs

Tennis team tries to get back on winning track

Volleyball team finishes third at Leland

Dodson wins twice to lead Wildcats to win over Wilcox

Fritsch homers, but Cats lose