Moving to far flung locations is great for your scrapbook. It’s not so great if you have no idea how to prepare for a hurricane, tornado, tsunami or other natural disaster common to your new home.
We were in Hawaii all of six months when the tsunami sirens wailed. Ummm. Huh. And on an island you, go, where?
Exactly.
Military families can find themselves at a huge disadvantage when they are faced with Mother Nature’s wrath. Locals may have experienced it before, or at a minimum, grew up learning how to be prepared. We have to rely on our neighbor’s advice, often at the last minute.
Don’t worry. There’s an app for that.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has developed a free app for iOS and Android users. The program helps users choose items for emergency kits and put emergency procedures into place for their families, such as picking a meeting location after a disaster. The app also lists links to recovery assistance for disaster survivors and has a recovery section for those who are rebuilding after disaster strikes.
And on the web:
www.ready.gov, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has built an entire website dedicated to schooling citizens on preparing for disasters ranging from forest fires to hurricanes. There are lists, stories, blogs, videos, a whole smorgasbord of info that teach what to do before, during and after an emergency; how to build a kit and make a plan and how to support your community in disaster preparedness and recovery. There are even games for kids.
http://www.redcross.org/prepare, The Red Cross’s website offers much of the same support as FEMA’s but includes planning tips for preparing for emergencies if you are caught at school, on the road or at work. This site is also a little easier to read with less options flashing across the screen.
Most states also have a website dedicated to natural disaster prep. Google your state name and the words “disaster preparation” to begin a search for the best advice your state can offer.
Hurricane season begins June 1. Thousands of military family members are now enjoying their new homes along America’s coastlines, thanks to PCS season. Before you open the grill and hit the beach, take a few moments to learn how to survive when those beautiful ocean waters churn with the power of a hurricane. A few hours of prep can mean the difference between life and death.
