Summer emergency preparedness

The beginning of summer for residents in areas frequented by natural disasters means it is time to start preparing for what may come. Summertime marks the beginning of wildfires and hurricane season. The National Disaster Education Coalition states every person, no matter where they live, should learn what disasters could impact their area (natural and man-made), make an emergency disaster plan, create a list of emergency contacts, make sure they are properly insured and have a pre-made disaster kit.

Summertime Natural Disasters

The most notable natural disasters during the summer months are wildfires and hurricanes. Although experts predict a typical wildfire season this summer, the “Jackson County Floridian” states NOAA weather and emergency management experts expect an active hurricane season with at least five Category 3 storms. The warning prompted Governor Charlie Crist of Florida to write a note to the state’s citizens reminding them to prepare for hurricanes in advance and make sure they have adequate flood insurance coverage now.

Be Prepared for a Hurricane

Being prepared is not expensive and can actually save you money in the end because emergency supplies such as food and water can cost more before, during and after a disaster because they will be in high demand.

The National Hurricane Center encourages you to know and do the following in the event of any type of emergency:

• The safest rooms in your home
• Know the escape routes out of your home, city, county and state
• Appoint a person to be single point of contact that everyone can call in the event of an emergency. This person should not live in the same state as you.
• Know what you are going to do with your pets in the event of a disaster
• Post emergency numbers near home phones and teach your children how to call 911
• CPR and first aid
• Preparing now will save you money, heartache and stress should the unthinkable happen. 

Learn more about preparing for a hurricane.