Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month? This month is officially designated, but the US government to promote family planning in case of emergencies. As we continue to fight COVID-19, involving the family in preparing for an emergency can reduce fear and anxiety that comes with unexpected events. It may also save lives.
In September, we will be doing a four-part series that can help you plan and respond to emergencies in your home and community. This week we will focus on the third part – preparing for common disasters and emergencies that might impact your family.
Living in Oklahoma, there are a few common emergencies that we should prepare for, like severe weather and tornadoes. There are also common household emergencies that you should prepare for, such as home fires or power outages.
Tornadoes and Severe Weather
As we all know, tornadoes can happen almost anytime and anywhere in Oklahoma. Sign up for your community’s warning system or an app that alerts you immediately when severe weather threats are in your area. Identify the shelter and practice going into a safe shelter in your home, a neighbor’s house, or community. Learn about more ways to prepare for severe weather here.
Earthquakes
Minor earthquakes have occurred in Oklahoma, and now is an excellent time to remind your family how to protect from injury when an earthquake strikes. If you are in a car, pull over and stop. If you indoors, remember to drop, cover, and hold on. Do not get in a doorway.
- Drop – Drop down to your hands and knees
- Cover – Cover your head and neck with your arms and crawl under a sturdy table or desk if available.
- Hold On – If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand.
Power Outages
Minor disruptions to electricity are common, especially when it is hot outside. Take an inventory of the items in your home that need electricity and consider a backup plan like batteries or a generator. Keep the refrigerator closed to preserve food as long as possible and disconnect other major appliances to protect from power shortages. If someone in your family requires medicine that requires refrigeration, make sure that you have a plan and know how long medication can go without refrigeration.
Fire
In just two minutes, fire can become life-threatening. A working fire alarm significantly increases your chance of escape, so install smoke alarms and check batteries annually. Create and practice a fire escape plan with at least two paths for escape from each room. Remember to crawl low under smoke and feel the doorknob before opening closed doors. Practice your escape plans in the dark and have a meeting place for the family outside of the home.
This is not a comprehensive list of home emergencies, so make sure that you have a plan for and practice for events that may influence your family. Involve the kids in planning and practicing!