Preparing for an emergency

National Safety Month is observed annually in June with the primary focus on providing education on how people can reduce the leading causes of hazards and disasters that occur in their homes and communities. Because an emergency can happen any time of year, organizations such as the National Safety Council help individuals, families, and communities become more aware of the dangers that can occur around them. Emergencies and disasters are on the top of the list of those hazards that many are not always fully prepared for.

Disasters like tornadoes and floods can strike with little to no warning. Some can be seasonal and easier to predict, while others can be unpredictable and occur without any notice at all. To ensure that you and your family are fully prepared, there is no time like the present to create an emergency plan. Being aware of the potential disasters that could occur in your home is essential, and understanding how you can best prevent them from causing damage is the first step to creating an emergency disaster plan.

How to plan for potential home disasters:

• Research and prepare for natural disasters common to your area, such as floods, earthquakes or tornadoes
• Create an emergency kit for both your home and car
• Create a home emergency plan with your family and learn how to shut off your utilities
• Be a good participant in emergency drills at work and school by following instructions and paying attention to lessons learned
• Store important phone numbers, including those of family members, with other important documents in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box
• Learn first aid and CPR for children and adults; check out the NSC First Aid app

To ensure you are fully prepared for any disaster you may encounter, make sure that your disaster plan encompasses any possible disaster that could occur in or near your home. By planning ahead and recognizing disasters common to your area, you are taking important steps toward protecting your home and family from potential dangers. Make sure you communicate your thoughts and plans to your family, so everyone is aware of the plan and can execute it successfully.
 
Resources:
https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/get-involved/national-safety-month
https://ehs.unc.edu/files/2018/06/public-tipsheet-preparedness.pdf
https://ehs.unc.edu/news/2018/06/04/national-safety-month-2018-emergency-preparedness/