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Both man and Mother Nature conspire to rain on our parade. Minimizing the damage and paving the road to recovery begins with being prepared for the worst.
There is no question that we live in perilous times - at the mercy of man and nature. And as the stakes get higher, the potential devastation of a man-made or natural disaster is an ever more sobering thought.
What to do, what to do? Be prepared; be stoic; expect the worst and strive to make the best of it.
Let's take a look at three of the calamities that may touch many or all of us going forward. Herewith, we present some of FEMA's guidelines as our source of expertise.
Hopefully, the agency is ready to do a heck of a job the next time around.
Chemicals
Before a chemical attack or leak, ensure that your disaster supply kit contains a roll of duct tape and scissors, and plastic sheeting (pre-cut to fit doors, vents and windows, preferably) to cover openings to outside air.
During an attack, close doors, and windows, and turn off all ventilation including air conditioners, furnaces, vents and fans. Seek shelter in an internal room and seal the room with plastic sheeting.
Post-attack, use extreme caution when helping others who may have been exposed to the chemicals. Remove all clothing and seal in a plastic bag. Clothing that is removed over the head should be cut away to avoid contact with eyes, nose and mouth. Remove eyeglasses and contact lenses and flush eyes with water. Put glasses in a pan filled with household bleach, then rinse and dry. Wash hands and skin with soap and water. Change into uncontaminated clothes - those that are kept in drawers and closets should be safe to wear. If you own an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) suit, wear it.
Flood
First of all, purchasing flood insurance is an excellent idea. Other preparatory steps include elevating the furnace, water heater and electrical panels well above floorboards. Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home. Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds. Keep a flood kit containing waterproof apparel and footwear, boots and flashlights. Construct barriers to keep floodwater from entering buildings.
If flooding has occurred and you must leave your home, secure the building by moving essential items to an upper floor and shutting off all utilities and electric power. Disconnect all electrical appliances.
When leaving your home, do not walk through moving water. Use a stick to check the firmness of ground that is under water. Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around the vehicle, abandon the car and move to higher ground.
It usually takes only six inches of water to reach the bottom of many cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many vehicles.
After the flood - Listen to news reports to learn when the community's water supply is safe to drink. Remember that floodwaters may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. It may also be electrically charged. Avoid moving water. Stay away from downed power lines.
Hurricane
Prior to the big H, consider building a safe room. Also, permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows, but alternatively, board up windows with 5/8" marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Install straps or extra clips to more securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
During a hurricane, monitor the radio and/or television for updated information. Be prepared to turn off utilities and propane tanks. If you do not have to shut off utilities, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting. Avoid using the telephone during a hurricane. Keep a large supply of potable water for cleaning and sanitary purposes. Fill your bathtub and large containers with clean water.
Stay indoors and away from doors and windows. Close all interior doors and brace external doors. Keep curtains and blinds closed. Lie on the floor under a table or other sturdy object.
If evacuation seems likely, keep a full tank of gas in your car. Bring along a battery-powered radio. If evacuation becomes necessary, leave as soon as you can. Do not hesitate! Be sure to follow only the recommended evacuation routes.
Upon returning to your home after a hurricane, approach with caution. Do not enter the home if you smell gas, if the home was damaged by fire or if you must walk through floodwaters to reach the home. Be wary of wildlife and stray pets. If you enter your home, stay away from frayed or broken electrical wiring.
If your basement is flooded, pump out the water gradually, about one-third of the water per day. The walls may collapse and the floor may buckle if the basement is pumped out while the surrounding ground is still waterlogged.
For complete survival and emergency preparation, keep a comprehensive first aid kit and make sure that its contents remain fresh and viable.
Store a one week supply of bottled water and canned food and MREs. Buy extra batteries for your emergency flashlights and for portable radios.
author: BY MARK HAWVER