Retired Fire Fighters of Washington

Disaster Preparedness

Written by Administrator

Thursday, 18 January 2007

PREPARING FOR THE WORST by Bob Burtch, SFD retired Escaping a Building: Most of the rules for escaping a burning or collapsed building are the same no matter what the cause. Know at least two escape routes from any room you’re in. Make sure that windows or doors you plan to use only in emergency can be opened, or at worst case, broken. If you’re higher than a second story, become familiar with all emergency exits and stairwells. In public places, note exits and possible places of refuge as you walk or drive. Take the safest exit route, but if you must escape through smoke, crawl low and keep your mouth covered. If there is a collapse or an explosion, look for initial refuge just as during an earthquake. Get away from windows or glass walls. Seek interior shelter — a desk, conference table or cabinet, or under a door jam or supporting beam. Once the initial episode is over, try to leave the building as quickly as possible. Once outside, stay out and well away from any falling glass or other debris. Workplaces should have a designated evacuation point or call-in system to an outside location to account for employees after an event. Your Disaster Kit: A basic disaster kit should contain a minimum of three days worth of supplies for you and your family. Use the following list to help you put together a kit that meets your needs. Bag--Use a large backpack to store your supplies. Water—A gallon a day per person should cover your basic thirst and sanitation needs. Food--Store high-energy foods (dried fruit, canned stews, etc.), vitamins and comfort foods because stress relief can really help things along. First-aid kit--A basic kit should include a variety of bandages (sterile, adhesive, rolled, gauze), safety pins, a cleansing agent, surgical gloves, tweezers, non-prescription painkillers and antiseptic towelettes. Clothing and bedding--Pack a pair of sturdy shoes, rain gear and a hat and thermal underwear. Add a blanket or a sleeping bag if you have them. Tools and emergency supplies--A battery-operated radio, a flashlight and spare batteries are a good start. Add a non-electric can opener, plates, eating utensils, waterproof matches, mini sewing kit, plastic sheeting, a wrench, a Swiss Army knife and some electrical tape to round out your kit. A whistle also could save your life because, if you’re trapped somewhere, it’s only a matter of time before you lose your voice from shouting for help. Special items--Baby items (diapers, formula, etc.), special medications, spare eyeglasses and contact lenses, games, books and whatever else you think you might need to keep you sane. Photocopies of important documents (driver’s license, passport, Social Security card, bank account information, etc.) as well as a copy of your most important addresses and phone numbers in a watertight container. Some Other Points To Consider As You Prepare: Don’t forget to account for your pets. In most cases, emergency shelters do not allow animals. Arrange with a friend or relative to be your out-of-area contact. Local lines are often jammed following disasters. Stay put, unless you’re injured or can’t stay where you are for safety reasons. Staying in familiar surroundings whenever possible is not only more comforting, it helps people find you faster. Prepare smaller disaster kits to be stored in your car and your workplace. Copyright © 2004 RFFOW. All rights reserved.

 

< Prev		Next >