1. Create A Personal Support Network
A personal support network can help you prepare for a disaster. They can do this by helping you identify and get the resources you need to cope effectively. Network members can also assist you after a disaster happens.
Organize a network that includes your home, school, workplace, volunteer site and any other places where you spend a lot of time. Members of your network can be roommates, relatives, neighbors, friends and co-workers. They should be people you trust and who can check to see if you need assistance. They should know your capabilities and needs, and be able to provide help within minutes.
Do not depend on only one person. Include a minimum of three people in your network for each location where you regularly spend a lot of time since people work different shifts, take vacations and are not always available.
2. Complete A Personal Assessment
Decide what you will be able to do for yourself and what assistance you may need before, during and after a disaster. This will be based on the environment after the disaster, your capabilities and your limitations.
To complete a personal assessment, make a list of your personal needs and your resources for meeting them in a disaster environment. Think about the following questions and note your answers in writing or record them on a cassette, CD or DVD that you will share with your network. These answers should describe both your current capabilities and the assistance you will need. Base your plan on your lowest anticipated level of functioning.
For more information please contact your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter.
Other preparedness materials are available at www.ready.gov.