Safest Places In Your Home During A Natural Disaster

Disasters tend to strike when we least expect them to. But by having a disaster preparedness plan, you can save the lives of your family members as well as yours. It is important to have designated spots in your home that are labeled as safe zones. In case of an emergency such as fire, earthquake or even a storm, all the family members should seek refuge in those designated places. The following are suggestions of where to run in case there is an emergency of whatever kind.

Tornado

• Stay indoors in case of a tornado and, if your house has a basement, run to it. Hide under a heavy work table or even under the stairs. Avoid standing on top of furniture or heavy appliances that may be on the above floor. • In case the house has no basement, the alternative place to run to in the house would be the center of the house, preferably on the first floor. Once there, get under a bed, desk or a sturdy table. • To avoid being hit by wind-borne debris, you will need to protect yourself with a pillow, books, blankets or even your arms.

Earthquake

• In case of an earthquake, you will need to keep as far away from windows, glasses, loose or breakable objects. Also, take note of flying, falling and sliding objects. • You can also brace yourself inside hallway, in a doorway, or you may have to slide under a strong table, bed or desk. • In the event that you find it difficult to move to a safer place, just sit still and ensure that you have protected your head and body. Use blankets, pillows, books or anything near you that you can grab.

Hurricane

• When there is a hurricane disaster, the best thing to do is to get to the center of your house, especially to small room that is located opposite where the wind is coming from. • Avoid being near windows.

Flood

• When a flood disaster strikes, the point is to get to the raised surfaces that water cannot get to. • You need to buy floatation vests in advance as these will help you when the flood water keeps rising and there is nowhere else you can go.

When disaster strikes, you are your best defense. Before a rescue team is sent, there are certain things you can do to protect you and your family. Always have designated place in advance and let your family members know of them.

After the disaster you will most likely be on your own for several days. Take the time know to build a kit so you are prepared!

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

• Flashlight

• First aid kit

• Extra batteries

• Whistle to signal for help

• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Manual can opener for food

• Local maps

• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Prescription medications

• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

• Glasses and contact lense solution

• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream

• Pet food and extra water for your pet

• Cash or traveler's checks

• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches in a waterproof container

• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

• Paper and pencil

• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

• Keep canned food in a cool, dry place

• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers

• Replace expired items as needed

• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles.

• Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.

• Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.

• Vehicle: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

To be safe your best bet is to consult with experts that will help you identify common problems and make suggestions for change before it's too late. C & A Safety Consultants has over 30 years experience in working with business, government agencies, schools, churches, youth groups, camps (day and sleep away). Group CPR and safety classes are available too.

Be prepared!

C & A Safety Consultants is located in Southern California.

C & A Safety can be reached at:

CNASAFETY1@gmail.com or by telephone: 805-750-0915