It may seem like almost a waste to spend much time, effort or resources on preparing for a catastrophe so rare it might not happen in our lifetimes. However, there are a few things each of us can do that we will definitely benefit from, some that we will very likely benefit from, and a few others that take such little effort they are worth doing, just in case.
Here’s one to start with: Get to know your neighbors.
This is good to do anyway, but if we experience a really big disaster,
we’ll only have each other to rely on. Professional responders will be
overwhelmed and/or unable to reach us after a severe earthquake, flood
or other major event. Figure out who in your immediate neighborhood
might need extra help (disabled or mobility-impaired?), who might have
useful skills (nurses, doctors, paramedics, pharmacists, firefighters?),
who has the serious equipment and tools that might be needed
(contractors, arborists, HAM radio operators?). Any hazards nearby? This
can be done as informally or as formally as you want.
And after a big disaster strikes, you can help by putting a big “OK”
sign up in your front window or on your front door if you are fine and
don’t need help – so first responders can get to those who do need help
faster.
If you’d like to help coordinate your sub-neighborhood (we need people
to step up from each little area!), could offer special help during an
emergency, or might need extra help during an emergency, please tell
your neighbors, and me!
– CDCA board member & neighborhood emergency response coordinator,
Charlie Quinn (CERT, WFR, FFT2) at c.quinn@stanfordalumni.org or call
344-7433.
Much more info and links on emergency preparedness can be found at:
www.eugene-or.gov/emergencymanagement
Also, the Churchill Neighbors have started a good blog on this:
http://www.churchillareaneighbors.org/blog/284
SHiNA 