Image courtesy of REUTERS/NOAA/National Environment Satellite, Data and Information Service, www.Alertnet.org
Every year in advance of the Atlantic hurricane season, disaster relief organizations like AmeriCares get ready in advance, prepositioning crucial medicines, supplies, and other aid in the most vulnerable regions.
At the same time, families living in the hurricane belt can get ready in advance of a storm emergency, by developing an evacuation plan and making disaster kits.
"Unlike earthquakes, tornadoes and volcanic eruptions, we are able to prepare for hurricanes before they strike," explained Garrett Ingoglia, VP of Emergency Response at AmeriCares. “It’s important to be ready, and – I cannot state this strongly enough -- to leave immediately when authorities order an evacuation."
Every disaster kit should include
- bottled water
- non-perishable foods
- battery-powered radios and flashlights
- first aid supplies including bandages and antiseptics
- soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes and other hygiene items
"First aid supplies should include a week’s worth of routine medications in addition to bandages, cold compresses and other emergency items," suggests Ingoglia. "People tend to forget or lose their prescription medications in the aftermath of a hurricane so it's important to include them in your family's first aid kit."
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