Definitive Proof That Catastrophe Preparedness Is the Most Important Thing to Focus On Right Now
Natural disasters take place at any given time. For the past decade, it has become more prevalent and has left devastating consequences. In 2019 alone, 409 natural disasters took place worldwide.
Curriculums include catastrophe preparedness and evacuation plans. This time, it is encouraged that families and organizations create their catastrophe preparedness plan in case natural disasters take place.
Here are some definitive proofs that catastrophe preparedness is the most important thing to focus on right now.
Statistics
● Each year, natural disasters claim 60,000 lives globally.
● In the past decade, natural disasters were responsible for the deaths of 0.1 to 0.4% of the global population.
● The biggest natural disasters are droughts and floods.
● This decade, the most deadly natural events are earthquakes.
● Natural disasters leave devastating effects on poverty-stricken areas.
● Death tolls are high in places with low-to-middle income countries that do not have significant infrastructure to withstand natural disasters.
● Climate change influences the prevalence of natural disasters.
The most deadly natural disaster is an earthquake, and it comes without warning. Regardless of the natural disaster, what you should focus on is the catastrophe preparedness plan in case it happens.
How to create a catastrophe preparedness plan
Here are some questions you need to ask before planning
● What natural disasters are most likely to take place in my area?
● Which of my assets will be affected financially and how can I protect them?
● Is my building’s evacuation plan updated?
● Can some of these disasters be predicted?
You can answer these questions with the help of a public appraiser and emergency management authorities.
Here are the steps to making a plan.
Step #1: Know the risks and hazards
Take note of what natural disaster is most likely to happen within your area.
Step #2: Create a household inventory
A home inventory helps you understand the things that are in your home. In case your house is completely destroyed in the aftermath, then you will know the extent of the damage.
Step #3: Keep important documents online and physical copies in a safe
This is a preventative measure in case of a natural disaster. Keep copies both online and in an emergency bag in case you need to evacuate.
Step #4: Create an Emergency Kit
An Emergency Kit contains food supplies, water, important documents, flashlights, communication devices such as walkie-talkies and radios. These also include clothes and a first aid kit.
Step #5: Prepare a Disaster Plan
Take note of various shelters and evacuation areas that will take you in before the occurrence of the natural disaster strikes.
Step #6: Create an Evacuation Plan
In the absence of a building evacuation plan, or if you are a homeowner, create your own evacuation plan. Make sure that the plan is placed on a wall for your entire family to see.
Local emergency service provides emergency routes. Include your community’s emergency plans and take notes of their warning signals.
Step #7: Compile a list of communication connections
For catastrophe preparedness plans, compile a list of hotlines and contact numbers of local authorities and emergency management authorities.
Also, make sure to include the names of disabled and elderly neighbors to relay their details in case a search and rescue operation ensues.
Step #8: Review your insurance policy
Review your insurance policy on natural disasters. Check the summary of everything insured to make sure that your property is not underinsured.
The prevalence of natural disasters will grow in the future. Hence, it is best to make plans. Insure properties and create catastrophe preparedness plans to reduce your risks and help keep you and your family safe.