SHTF Disaster And Emergency Preparedness For The Unexpected Part 2

More Practical Tips To Be Prepared In A SHTF Disaster!

You will learn what could happen in a SHTF disaster and emergency preparedness situation, and why being ready beforehand is critical.

Disclaimer:  I am an Amazon Associate; therefore, this post may contain affiliate links for me to earn a commission. RuralMoney.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

As we learned from the natural disasters in Louisiana (Katrina/Sandy), anything can happen.

There can be significant numbers of casualties and/or damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Therefore, employers need up-to-date information about any medical needs you may have and, how to contact your designated beneficiaries.

Heavy law enforcement involvement at local, state and federal levels follow a disaster due to crime.

Health and mental health resources in the affected areas can be strained to their limits, maybe even overwhelmed.

Extensive media coverage and strong public fear can continue for a prolonged period.

Workplaces and schools may be closed, and there may be restrictions on local and interstate travel.

You and your family or household may have to evaluate an area, avoiding roads blocked for your safety.

In addition, clean up or financial recovery may take many months.

SHTF Disaster And Emergency Preparedness Evacuation

If local authorities ask you to leave your home, they have a good reason to make this request.

And, you should heed the advice immediately.

Listen to your radio or television and follow the instructions of local emergency officials and keep these simple tips in mind:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and sturdy shoes so you can be protected as much as possible.
• Take your Bug Out Bag.
• Take your pets with you; do not leave them behind because pets are not permitted in public shelters. Follow your plan to go to a relative’s or friend’s home, or find a “pet-friendly” hotel.
• Lock your home.
• Use travel routes specified by local authorities—don’t use short cuts because certain areas may be impossible or dangerous.
• Stay away from downed power lines.

Listen To Local Authorities

Your local authorities will provide you with the most accurate information specific to a SHTF disaster in your area.

Staying tuned to local radio and television, and following their instructions is your safest choice.

If you’re sure you have time:

• Call your family contact to tell them where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
• Shut off water and electricity before leaving, if instructed to do so. Leave natural gas service ON unless officials advise you otherwise. You may need gas for heating and cooking.   And, only a professional can restore gas service in your home once it’s been turned off.

Shelter In Place During A SHTF Disaster

If local officials advise you to “shelter in place,” then what they mean is for you to remain inside your home or office and protect yourself there.

Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.

Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.

Close the fireplace damper.

Get your BOB and make certain the radio is working.

Go to an interior room without windows that’s above ground level.

In the case of a chemical threat, an above ground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.

Using duct tape, seal all cracks around the door and any vents into the room.

Keep listening to your radio or television until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate.

Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community.

First Aid Primer

Be certain you have a first aid manual that covers such topics as controlling bleeding, caring for shock, tending burns, caring for injuries to muscles, bones and joints.

Be Aware Of Biological And Radiological Exposure

Listen to local radio and television reports for the most accurate information from responsible government and medical authorities on what’s happening, and what actions you will need to take.

READ: 100 ITEMS YOU NEED TO PLAN AHEAD FOR DISASTERS