What Did Evacuees Take With Them?
Disaster preparedness is an essential skill and knowledge for survival even for people not living in the tornado belt or an earthquake country. Not all disasters are natural, and catastrophes nearby a location can affect residents through loss of power or water supply. Unknowingly and unexpectedly, some people may find themselves becoming evacuees because of these disasters. What should evacuees take with them?
Basic disaster preparedness includes tucking away a bit of food and water as well as ensuring safety and health at a time when regular services are not available. Their basic needs are: water, food and shelter and warmth. Food is more expedient than shelter, however, water is the most important item for survival. Bottled water is the safest water supply. Bottled water bought in stores have an indefinite shelf life than water bottled at home. Part of disaster preparedness is keeping three gallons of water for every person in the household. If there’s a possibility of evacuation, water supply should be readily movable with the household members.
Food supply brought during evacuation should be stored for a long time; anything that requires refrigeration is not advisable. Dry, canned goods and ready to eat foods are necessary. Staying at home is the easiest shelter if there’s no need to evacuate; otherwise it’s the car or a tent or coordinating with authorities to seek shelter in the nearest evacuation center.
