It is mid August here in Denver, the air has a subtle hint that summer is ending and fall is approaching. This year, rather than slowing down toward a mellow fall season, the city seems on hyper-drive, sprucing up and preparing for the Democratic National Convention that rolls into town next week. Just like the city, many of us are also busy with preparations for school start-up, work commitments and last minute vacations. I would like to highlight a preparation you might not have considered.
Increasingly, we hear about natural disasters such hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and floods. In the back of our minds too is the possibility of man-made disasters, both accidental ones and perhaps even unthinkable intentional ones. Would we be prepared?
It is not a healthy response to live in a constant state of fear regarding such disasters, but it is healthy to have extra assurance based on adequate emergency preparation and planning. Would you and your family know what to do in an emergency to be safe and secure? Have you considered the following: How would you connect with each family member in an emergency? Where would you agree to meet? If you were asked to stay home in an emergency (think a really bad Denver snowstorm), do you have a food (and water) supply to last you through at least 72 hours? If asked to evacuate your home, would you have a to-go kit with some cash, identification and medical information?
Creating a personal/family emergency plan may seem like too much work, or something you would really rather not have to think about, but wouldn’t the peace of mind that comes from being prepared be worth it? Here are some sources of good information on emergency planning and great checklists for being prepared!
www.redcross.org
www.fema.gov/areyouready
www.readycolorado.org
