JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
"Preventing the loss of life and minimizing the damage to property from hurricanes are responsibilities that are shared by all."
Disaster prevention should include:
· Developing a Family Plan
· Creating a Disaster Supply Kit
· Securing your home
· Having a pet plan
If you are asked to evacuate, you should do so without delay. However, evacuations will not be ordered for all storms. That means it is important for you and your family to have a plan that makes you as safe as possible in your home as well as one to evacuate.
Develop a family plan - Your family's plan should be based on your vulnerability to the hurricane hazards. You should keep a written Family Emergency Plan and Child's Emergency Contacts card and share your plan with other friends or family. Also develop a Communications Plan.
It is important to include your entire family in the planning process. Studies have shown that children who were involved in and understood their family's emergency plan before Hurricane Katrina had far less emotional distress and required less counseling in its aftermath.
Create A Disaster Supply Kit - The disaster supply kit is a useful tool whether you evacuate or to help make you as safe as possible in your home.
Be sure to include a list of items and their locations at the last minute (medications, deeds, insurance paperwork, etc.)
Secure Your Home - There are actions you can take to make your home more secure and able to withstand stronger storms.
Have A Pet Plan - Do not leave your pets behind when you evacuate; be sure to plan carefully for them. The only local shelter that accepts pets is the North Charleston coliseum; only one family member may go there with the pet. Be sure to have an evacuation plan that includes family and friends or a hotel that accepts your pet(s).