6/10/2013
Topics in Contemporary Social Issues
We must have tools and plans in place to make it on our own in case of a disaster happening. Just like having a functioning smoke detector in your house, having emergency supply kits will put tools that one may need at your feet. It is important to be prepared to use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe even longer. There are six basic items that one should ensure if any disaster were to occur. These include: water, food, a first aid kit, clothing and bedding, tools and supplies, and special items. Any item that you may need when evacuating should be deposited in an easy-to-carry container such as backpack or a duffle bag. It is also important to store a small disaster kit in your vehicle. Store one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation use, in a clean plastic container. More water may be desired if you live in a warmer climate. Choose foods that you and your family will eat, that will not go bad and does not have to be cooked, including fruit bars, dry cereals, canned foods and juices. Also remember to pack a manual can opener as well as cups and instruments used for eating. Emergency personnel will assist after a disaster strikes however; there may be times when they may not be able to reach everyone immediately. We cannot control natural disasters, emergencies, or terrorist attacks, but we can be equipped for them. The top 10 possible emergencies include: 1. Floods, 2. Fires, 3. Winter Storms, 4. Tropical Storms, Tornadoes, and Thunderstorms, 5. Influenza Pandemic also known as the Flu, 6. Hazardous Material Incidents, 7. Earthquakes and Landslides, 8. Nuclear Threat, 9. Dam Failures, and 10. Terrorism.
Floods
The most common natural disaster in the United States is Flooding. Floods can happen in various ways. Floods can start slow during a long rain period, or if warm air trails after a heavy snow fall. Flash
References: FBI. (2002-2005). Terrorism. Retrieved from http://www.fbi.gov/stats-services/publications/terrorism-2002-2005 CDC (2012). Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness Guide. Pages 3, 4, 5, 6 SCEMA. (2008). How You Can Be Prepared for a Flu Pandemic. Retrieved from www.scema.org FEMA. (2008). Ready. Prepare. Plan. Stay Informed. Retrieved from http://www.ready.gov/about-us FEMA. Plan, Prepare & Mitigate. Retrieved from www.fema.gov/plan-prepare-mitigate