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Poll: Americans unprepared
According to a New York Times poll (Oct. 28, 2004), the
overwhelming majority of Americans have done nothing to
prepare for a terrorist attack. Sixty-one percent do not
have a stockpile of food and water at home; more than 70
percent have not selected a family meeting place in case
of an evacuation.
Here's what you need to know
In a disaster, local officials and relief workers cannot
reach everyone immediately. Help may not arrive for
hours or days. You and your family need to be prepared
ahead of time because you won't have time to shop or
search for the supplies you will need when a disaster
strikes.
FACT: Most disasters are
natural disasters, the result of some force of
nature, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods. Some
natural disasters can be predicted, such as hurricanes
and severe winter storms, while others, such as
tornadoes and earthquakes, happen with little or no
warning.
FACT: Some disasters are the cause
of human actions, intentional or unintentional. A
disaster plan will help with safety, security, and
comfort. Regardless of the type disaster, there are
things you can do to prepare. Contact your local
Red
Cross chapter, visit the
FEMA Web
site, or Ready.gov to
make sure you are aware of the potential for natural
disasters in your community. After you have identified
the types of disasters that could strike where you live,
create a family disaster plan that can apply to any type
of disaster – natural, unintentional, or intentional.
Disaster planning for families
Disaster can occur suddenly and without
warning. They can be frightening for adults, but they
are traumatic for children if they don't know what to do
when these events occur. Children depend on daily
routines. When an emergency disturbs their routine,
children can become nervous. In an emergency, they'll
look to parents or other adults to help.
How parents react to an emergency gives children an
indication on how to act. They see their parents' fear
as proof that the danger is real. A parent's response
during this time may have a long-term impact. Including
children in the family's recovery plans will help them
feel that their life will return to normal.
Families can develop a family
disaster plan and practice it so that everyone will
remember what to do in an emergency. Everyone in the
home, including children, should play a part in the
family's response and recovery efforts. Remember: make
the plan simple so everyone can remember the details.
More information
Updated: 12/06
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