Preparedness is Positively Powerful!
Preparedness is the most positive and proactive part of the Emergency Management Cycle.
Recently the news has been flooded with natural disasters.
From the multiple hurricanes in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, USVI, Texas, and Florida, to the giant earthquake in Mexico City, and here at home the wildfires, it has been a busy time for first responders, and a challenging time for those in the areas hardest hit. As we get images and stories from these areas, we are hearing of the response phase of the emergency management cycle, and starting to learn what, if anything, we can do to help with the recovery.
Ever since I earned my degree in Emergency Management my friends have family have joked about my being the “doom and gloom” guy, but being prepared is all about resiliency. It’s about hoping for the best, planning for the worst, and putting yourself in the best possible position, whatever comes your way.
Being prepared is not just saying “what can I do to help?” in times of disaster, but asking what you can do now to make your community stronger, your neighborhood more resilient, your family safer.
These Photos Of Mexicans Helping Each Other After The Quake Will Restore Your Faith In Humanity
Florida’s Keys, hit hard by the Hurricanes, are already open and welcoming visitors back.
Other than giving to relief agencies, the best thing you can do to help, is get yourself prepared and trained.
Have a plan
Build a kit
Store 14 gallons of water per person
Get a HAM license
Learn about volunteering for the Red Cross , local community emergency response team CERT, or just go to a neighborhood meeting some time, walk the block, meet those who live next to you.
There is so much you CAN do, now, right at home, and while it may not help with those affected in the South and the Caribbean, it will make a very positive contribution to your family, community, and for yourself as well.
