Don’t Wait for Disaster to Strike: Act Now, Prepare Now
by Million Voices Writers' Room | Nov 7, 2023
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Are you adequately equipped to provide for and protect your family in the face of a national disaster—whether natural or manmade?
As of October 10, 2023, the United States has experienced 24 weather disaster events, causing damages exceeding $1 billion each this year, according to data from the National Centers for Environmental Information. These disasters are comprised of drought, two floods, 18 severe storms, six hurricanes (three major or category 3 or above), a wildfire, and a winter storm, cumulatively resulting in the unfortunate loss of 373 lives and severe economic impact in the affected regions.
Prepping for the unknown is not about fear or preparing for a doomsday scenario. Instead, it is about empowering yourself to safeguard your loved ones under unexpected circumstances. The importance of this preparedness is highlighted during crises such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Adopting a proactive approach toward safety is imperative.
Don’t wait for the next headline to jolt you into action. It’s time to prioritize the safety of your loved ones. Equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and resources to face any crisis confidently. Remember, in the face of adversity, preparation is not just an option; it’s a duty to those you hold dear. Act now, be prepared, and ensure your family’s safety in an unpredictable world.
Here is a basic supply checklist to get you started on your preparedness journey:
- Food – two-week minimum supply per person of non-perishable items (1,500 calories per day per person)
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
- Water – 15 gallons per person (roughly a gallon a day) for drinking and sanitation
- Life Straw to filter water for each member of the household, countertop water filter, water purification tablets
- Pet food and extra water
- Propane
- Propane cooking supplies
- Flashlights, candles, headlamps, lanterns
- Extra batteries, batteries for cell phones—charged at all times, solar chargers
- Manual can opener
- Matches (in a waterproof container) and lighters
- Fire extinguisher
- Firewood
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio, NOAA Weather Radio, two-way ham radio
- First aid kit—band-aids, antibiotic ointment, anti-itch cream, tourniquet
- Whistle to signal for help
- Wrench or pliers to manually turn off utilities if necessary
- Dust Masks
- Tarps or plastic sheeting, duct tape, zip ties to seal off rooms and shelter in place
- Axe, shovel, work gloves
- Wet Wipes or other moist towelettes, garbage bags, and ties for personal sanitation in case of water shut-off
- Prescription medication
- Pain relievers, anti-diarrhea meds, etc
- Soap, hand sanitizer, disinfection wipes
- Sleeping bags or warm blankets
- Paper plates, cups, towels, and plastic utensils
- Activities for children—games, books, puzzles
- Eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Important documents (physical and on USB thumb drive)—identification, legal documents, deeds, titles, life insurance, wills, bank records, pictures, notebook with important contact numbers, etc., in a portable, waterproof, fireproof container or safe
- Self-defense (depending on personal views)—firearms, ammo, pepper spray, body armor
- Cash—as much as you can afford to stash
- Maps (including one to the nearest hospital)
- Gas in vehicles (extra gas)
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