A Family Disaster Plan: it means for your household to be ready.
A funny thing happened last night. This article was just about to be written when the electricity went out. “No problem,” I thought, as I stumbled in the shadows towards the bed to gather the flashlight. Well, you guessed it. The flashlight was not where it was “supposed” to be…where it has been for two years. This author of preparedness wasn’t prepared. I’ll try to do better this week as I draw out a house plan.
That’s the next step to family preparedness….drawing a house plan and defining escape routes and safe places. It’s a fun project and one that everyone in the household can participate in. In a fire or other emergency, you may need to get out quickly or go to a safe spot in the house. Mapping the house helps each member of the family predetermine what they would do, thus creating a better chance of survival.
On a blank piece of paper, draw the floor plans. Be sure to include the obvious, like doors and windows. Additionally, mark the locations of disaster supplies, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, collapsible ladders (to help get out), and utility shut-off points.
Indicate at least TWO escape routes from each room, and mark a place outside the home where household members should meet. Then, when the floor plan is done…have a practice night. Set off the fire alarm (they need to be checked too) and evacuate! Do this at least twice annually. Try to do it this week.
As always. Be prudent. Be ready. Be prepared. And put a flashlight next to your bed.