To prepare for emergencies, we need to understand the risks we face and the ways that we can prepare to handle those emergencies.
When looking at emergencies, we deal with two different aspects, those being normal times and extraordinary times.
Ordinary Times- These are the risks we face on a day-to-day basis, such as working a difficult job, travelling to school, or inclement weather.
Extraordinary Times- These are risks we face in extreme circumstances, such as Hurricane Katrina making landfall in New Orleans, national emergencies, and pandemics.
To be truly resilient, you have to be prepared for both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances.
"The country needs to act and to learn how to prevent, prepare and respond to the new threats to our safety and well-being."
-Dr. R. Gillio - Lessons Learned at Ground Zero
How can I prepare for an emergency?
On days when everything is going smoothly and following the status-quo, it can be hard to envision that everything can change in an instant. Preparation is key!
When disaster threatens, officials may order an evacuation. Evacuation means leaving an area in an orderly fashion, especially for your protection and safety. An evacuation may be required because of smoke, fire, extreme weather, flooding or other emergencies such as a bomb threat.

School Evacuation At your school, the first priority is the safety of all students and staff. Evacuation plans have been pre-defined and practiced. (A fire drill is a type of evacuation.) If you are required to relocate to another site, know that plans have been made to notify your parents or guardians of the situation. Emergency kits and supplies have been stockpiled to assure your safety and comfort.
|
Evacuations Due to Severe Weather
- Extensive damage happens when wind enters a home through a broken window, door, or damaged roof. Houses do not explode due to air pressure variances.
- Cover the outside of windows with shutters or plywood if high winds are expected. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Tape does prevent windows from shattering. However, a better defense against the wind is covering windows with plywood.
- Move objects that may get damaged by wind or water to safer areas of your home. Move television sets, computers, stereo and electronic equipment, and easily movable appliances like a microwave oven to higher levels of your home and away from windows. Wrap them in sheets, blankets, or burlap.
- Contact family and friends in areas away from the storm who may be able to help you.
- Have a safe designation in mind.
On short notice officials may order an evacuation. Take these things and go!
|
Luckily, various agencies have prepared checklists and procedures for emergency situations. Check out the links below to get started!
To be absolutely prepared, you should be in good physical health. In addition to mental and emotional preparation, physical preparation is key to surviving an emergency.
To learn more about how the body works and how you can prepare to be as physically fit as possible, you can check out some of our other courses, and become a Force for Health!

Force for Health: Form and Function

Force for Health: Health Basics