Events of recent months should lead each of us to ask the simple question, "What responsibility do I have to myself and my family to be prepared?" Now is a good time for all of us to ask ourselves that question.
I was struck this week by media coverage of Broward County Florida residents, barely 24 hours after hurricane Wilma had struck, complaining about long lines and lack of MRE's, water and ice. And yet, repeatedly during the previous week, not to mention almost continuously from the start of the 2005 hurricane season, public officials and representatives from private relief agencies have been hammering home the need for everyone to PLAN for a disaster. It would be impossible to count the number of times that we have heard that every person and family should have a 3-day supply of food, water and a 7-day supply of medication on hand. Yet, once again, we were hearing residents complain that they need food and water in the first 24 hours following a disaster.
It is important to acknowledge that some people, especially the elderly and disabled, may have trouble following preparation guidance. It has also been said that some people living in poverty may not have the money to "stock up" for three days. But the people standing in line seemed to represent a cross-section of the population not any particular group. If just half of those standing in line had planned ahead the supplies that were rapidly flowing into the disaster area might very well have been sufficient to serve the short-term needs of the community. Instead, shortages are being reported daily on the news.
Human nature probably assures that we will always have those who ignore sound advice. In spite of that, those of us responsible for responding during a crisis will keep preaching preparedness. In St. Charles County our Department of Community Health and the Environment has been promoting the Missouri "Ready in 3" program. It is an excellent program and is available online at www.ready.missouri.gov. Written program materials can also be found throughout the County at all branches of the St. Charles County Library system. Additionally, residents can call 636-949-7408 and materials will be mailed.
The steps are easy and straight-forward:
- Create a Plan
- Prepare a Kit
- Be Informed
Detailed guidance will take you through each step and when you are done you and your family will be well-prepared to cope during the first 72 hours following a disaster. With a minimal investment of time and effort and money you will have the peace of mind that is found by knowing you are prepared. No disaster is easy, even with preparation, but taking personal responsibility for self-preservation and survival will make the difficult more bearable. Remember, "Be Prepared", is good advice!
The Ant and the Grasshopper
In a field one summer's day a Grasshopper was hopping about, chirping and singing to its heart's content. An Ant passed by, bearing along with great toil an ear of corn he was taking to the nest.
"Why not come and chat with me," said the Grasshopper, "instead of toiling and moiling in that way?"
"I am helping to lay up food for the winter," said the Ant, "and recommend you to do the same."
"Why bother about winter?" said the Grasshopper; "we have got plenty of food at present." But the Ant went on its way and continued its toil. When the winter came the Grasshopper had no food, and found itself dying of hunger, while it saw the ants distributing every day corn and grain from the stores they had collected in the summer. Then the Grasshopper knew:
"IT IS BEST TO PREPARE FOR THE DAYS OF NECESSITY."