In the past two weeks, earthquakes and Hurricane Irene have been all over the national news, and while Houston was spared this time, we can't help but wonder what we'd do if a natural disaster came our way. It is good to have a plan. Whether you're brand new to Houston or a long-time resident, you'll learn quickly that disasters can happen even in our beautiful city. Although Houston is known for its beautiful, warm climate, we're close enough to the Gulf of Mexico to be affected by hurricane season (which is still in full swing). We can also be hit by tornadoes, floods, and fires.
Don't let this scare you, though. As our friends on the East Coast can tell us, you can keep yourself, your family, and your community safer by taking simple steps to prepare for disasters. There are some excellent resources online for making a disaster emergency plan and building emergency disaster kits for your home and your car, so you'll be ready for any disaster that is likely to hit Houston:
• The Ready Houston web site is full of general and Houston-specific resources to prepare you for any disaster, from extreme weather, to toxic spills, to flu epidemics. Learn the basics—make a plan, get a kit, and be informed—or dig deeper to find out how to get certified to serve your community in emergencies.
• The Houston SPCA reminds pet owners to include animals in their disaster emergency plan, and lists pet essentials to add to your emergency disaster kit.
• Click and Clack of NPR's Car Talk offer this list of items to keep in the trunk of your car whether you're evacuating in an emergency, going on a long road trip, or simply driving to work. Even if you're not mechanically inclined, you'll be able to solve many common car problems—and they include downloadable instructions for jump-starting a car, and for safe summer and winter driving.
If you'd like to learn even more about disaster preparedness, visit FEMA's web site to order their publication, Are You Ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness, and the DVD, Getting Ready for Disaster—One Family's Experience.
Posted by Melanie Belasco Levy on 09/01/11
