We near the end of 2018. It is time for you to consider resolutions for 2019, and this post is a suggestion. Recent months have brought cascading news regarding disasters. From eastern U.S. hurricanes to wildfires in the west. These events are devastating, and they share the commonality of preparedness.
Hurricane Michael made landfall on October 10, 2018, as a strong category 4 hurricane. Michael has earned a place in history, one of the "four most-intense to hit the mainland United States since records began in 1851," according to the Washington Post. Ongoing analysis of the data collected during the storm may well result in it eventually being re-characterized as a Category 5.
The Post notes that no one "would be surprised by such an upgrade." It recounts that some describe the Florida damage as similar "to the effect of a nuclear bomb." My personal observations there are similar. The Post paints a picture of changing building codes, and constrained development. It notes that some areas suffered extreme damage and others benefited from barrier islands and natural dune beaches.
After a hurricane, it is common in this part of the world to hear "at least with a hurricane there is a warning." But, notably, Michael made landfall "just three days after it was considered Tropical Depression 14 down near the Yucatan." The storm strengthened considerably in the 24 hours just before landfall; there was minimal warning of Michael and almost no warning of a major hurricane. Despite the illusion of warning, the reality may provide little time. The Post also posits that " Michael should remind coastal residents that “you can always be hit by a Category 4 or 5 hurricane.”
Michael is responsible for the deaths of 45 people, "at least 35 in Florida" according to one news source. Following the 2017 hurricane impact in Puerto Rico, there are those who advocate more inclusive calculations for measuring such impacts, but 45 is the figure currently being used in the press. There is no telling what number may be the ultimate conclusion by this time next year.
Across the country, fires recently started in California. Wildfires have been in the news repeatedly there in recent years. Two major fires have been in the news recently, the "Camp Fire" and the "Woolsey Fire." There is conjecture that electrical equipment may have started the Camp fire, according to CBS News. By November 13, the Camp fire was responsible for 84 deaths making it "the deadliest in state history," according to ABC News. The total may yet increase.
There was not much warning for Michael, exacerbated by the way that the storm strengthened as it approached land. Many decided to ride out the storm, and many others evacuated at the last moment as the truth became too clear. Be that as it may, there was less warning still for the wildfire victims.
Fortunately, there is a great deal of advice out there for making a disaster plan. California has a checklist of things to think about. For those who prefer watching advice, there are YouTube videos also. Consumer Reports provides advice on documenting your home and possessions. Think ahead about fuel, prescriptions, non-perishable foods (a great excuse to eat something not-so-adult, like SpaghettiOs; and what is more non-perishable than the Twinkie?), and pets. There is so much to think about; it clearly makes sense to think about your potential and your plans before that evacuation order, or even merely an evacuation suggestion, comes.
After Michael, much of the news stories recounted the efforts of search and rescue (SAR). Similar stories came in later in the midst of the California fires. These intrepid folks trudged door-to-door, knocking, listening, and searching. Each approach to a structure or remnant was undoubtedly dreadful and each door marked "clear" was a relief. One of the best tips I discerned from the links above is that you should put a sign in your front window when you leave that says "evacuated." When the SAR get to your home, they can pass right by knowing that the house is clear. The time you save them could literally save someone else's life.
Know what resources are there for you in advance. Floridadisaster.org has lots of resources and ideas for before, and phenomenal information and updates after. Preparation is not a "wildfire" or "hurricane" "thing," not a "California" or "Florida" "thing." Preparation makes sense wherever you are. Knowing the potential for disaster (storm, fire, earthquake, blizzard) makes sense. Planning your reaction and personal/family recovery makes sense. It also does not hurt that this country is full of people who will not hesitate a moment to lend you a hand. I described that in more detail years ago in Because We Need It, They Will Come.
There is some comfort in their presence. There is relief in knowing that help will come. But, you have to remember that in the first instance, it is all on you. Many advise you to be prepared to take care of your needs for at least 48-72 hours post-event. Some will not be aided even that quickly; there are many to help and there is much to do post-event. You have to think it through, make your plan, get yourself out, and take care of you and yours. At the outset, you are in large part on your own and dependent upon your preparedness and judgment. I have heard many a Floridian lament their failure to listen to warnings and evacuate.
When you get out take a moment to list yourself with the Red Cross. Did you know that they have a "Safe and Well" site? You can fill in a quick form and let people know you are safe somewhere. From miles away, those you may not think to reach will perhaps be relieved to find you listed as "Safe and Well."
And finally, watch for frauds whether you are recovering from disaster or seeking to help others. Unfortunately, there are a few bad apples out there who seek personal gain from the pain and tragedy of others. NBC affiliate KCRA3 recently reported on a woman scamming the community, claiming to be the wife of a California firefighter. If you are considering helping, know your beneficiary. If you do not know them personally, check their status through a tool like CharityCheck101. The aid and assistance are always needed, always welcome, and so very gracious. But, don't let a scammer divert resources from those in need.
Have you made a disaster plan for your work and home? If you have not, it is past time. Think it through when things are calm. Then you will not have to when things turn unexpectedly frantic. Resolve now to have a plan for 2019. Make it, write it down, and be ready. Here's hoping you never need it, but make it anyway (You can occasionally eat the Twinkies anyway. You know, in the spirit of practicing and keeping supplies up to date?).
