Think the world is going to end tomorrow? Some believe that on Friday, December 21, 2012, the end date of an important phase on the ancient Mayan calendar, a cataclysmic event will occur.
Whether you are a believer or a nonbeliever, being prepared is the key to enduring any potential disaster.
"People should not panic or do anything reckless, but use this as an opportunity to get prepared," said Autum Mihm, spokesperson for the American Red Cross. "For all emergency situations we encourage people to get a kit, make a plan and be informed."
The following tips will help you prepare for the apocalypse as well as many other types of disasters:
Get a kit:
- Have at least a 3 day supply of water and nonperishable food (for each family member) in an easy-to-carry emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you if you have to evacuate.
- Also include in your preparedness kit: flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, medicines, sanitary supplies, cell phone and charger, extra cash, blankets, multipurpose tool, hand crank radio, a map and personal documents
- Keep a 2-week supply at home in case stores are closed or you cannot leave affected areas.
Make a plan:
- Meet with your family or household members to discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies most likely to happen where you live.
- Learn how to turn off utilities like natural gas, water and electricity.
- Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team
Be informed:
- Monitor the local news for disaster information and in the event of inclement weather listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information
- Learn about the types of disasters that can occur in your area and how you can get information during emergencies.
To learn more about how you can prepare for disasters, visit redcross.org or download one of the many mobile Red Cross apps for iPhone and Android.
