The Ultimate Disaster Preparedness Manual

Author : Er Albert Ovung

Contact:jopathung@gmail.com

Table of Contents

How to Use This Book

Part 1: Natural Disasters

Introduction

Surviving a Flood

Flood Facts

Monitor Flooding in Your Area

Driving in Flooded Areas

Dealing with the Flood

When Earthquakes Strike

Earthquake Facts

How to Act During an Earthquake

Dealing with Deadly Heat

Monitoring a Heat Wave

The Best Practices During Heat Waves

First Aid Measures

Watch Out for Landslides

Preventive Measures

Safety Guidelines During a Landslide

Beating Wildfires

Pre-Wildfire Preparations

Handling an Actual Wildfire

Using Your Vehicle During a Firestorm

Part 2: Other Hazards

Blackouts

Pre-Blackout Preparations

Blackout Safety Guidelines

Safety During a Hazardous Materials Incident

HMI Safety Guidelines

Biological Warfare

Safety Guidelines During a Biological Attack

Terrorist Attacks & Explosives

Explosives Facts

Handling a Bomb Threat

Characteristics of Suspicious and Potentially Deadly Packages

Surviving a Blast

Emergency Kit

References

How to Use This Book

The Ultimate Disaster Preparedness Manual was designed for anyone who wishes to survive the most common emergencies and disasters (natural or man-made). This book is divided into two parts. The first part deals with disasters arising from natural phenomena, while the second part deals with hazards and disasters arising from man’s activities.

If you want to know how to handle a flood, read the section “Surviving a Flood.” Those of you who are interested in learning more about earthquakes, head over to the section “When Earthquakes Strike.” For information about excessive heat or heat waves, you’ll want to read “Dealing with Deadly Heat.”

For more information regarding landslides and debris flow, there is a section dedicated to just that: “Watch Out for Landslides.” A special section has also been devoted to safety guidelines revolving around wildfires: “Beating Wildfires”.

If you think a blackout is imminent in your area, you’ll want to skip to the section “Blackouts,” which can be found in Part 2: Other Hazards. There is also important information regarding HMIs, or Hazardous Materials Incidents, in “Safety During a Hazardous Materials Incident.” Explosives and biological warfare are also covered at the end of this book.

Part 1: Natural Disasters

Introduction

Disasters can strike at any moment – I should know because I have personally experienced many natural disasters over the years. It’s not something that you can ignore, because Mother Nature rarely takes her time when she’s ready to release torrential rain or deadly hurricanes.

Hurricane Katrina was a sobering reminder to all of us that we should never take nature for granted, and we should always know what to do in case nature does strike back at man.

This is the main reason why I set out to research the specific steps one should take to prepare oneself and one’s family in case a disaster (natural or otherwise) takes place. Over the years I have been continually caught off guard by natural disasters.

I did not want this to be a regular occurrence, so I decided to find out how one can actually prepare for the worst when disasters strike. This book is the result of my research efforts– all of which I will now be sharing with you.

It is my sincerest wish that you never have to use the knowledge that you will find in this volume. But, in worst-case scenarios, I also hope that the specialized knowledge contained in my book will help keep you and your loved ones safe from harm.

Surviving a Flood

Floods are extremely common in tropical countries – but that doesn’t mean that temperate and wintry countries don’t experience flooding. In fact, flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that occur in various parts of the United States.

It’s not going to change anytime soon, so we’d best be prepared for this type of disaster. There are generally two kinds of floods. The first type of flood develops over a long period of time due to continuous rain.

It’s generally easier to prepare for this type of flooding because you can gather your emergency supplies as you monitor the rising waters around the neighborhood.

The second type of flooding is more sudden: flash floods. Flash floods can occur within a few short minutes, and whole neighborhoods can become submerged without warning. Flash floods can occur in the following situations:

Excessive rainfall over a long period of time

Structural or operational dam problems

Ice jam breakage

An overflow in natural bodies of water, such as rivers

Street drains that are unable to handle the water coming in from excessive rainfall

While regular floods carry with them some debris, flash floods are doubly dangerous because flash flood waters often carry rocks and mud. Imagine a massive wave of muddy and rocky water heading toward your neighborhood. In countries in Southeast Asia, flash floods have been known to decimate whole neighborhoods in a matter of hours.

Little can be done if the victims of flash floods have little or no knowledge of how to act during a natural disaster. While some cities in the United States are relatively safe from flooding, one can never know. Be extra alert if you live in a low-lying area near any kind of body of water (even a pond can cause massive flooding during a heavy downpour).

I know that many people have yet to experience a devastating flood – and that’s good. If you have never experienced a flood in your lifetime, that means that you either live in a very flood-protected area, or your local government is doing everything it can to prevent flooding from taking place, even during the worst downpours.

Does this mean that you won’t have to know how to act during a flood? Not necessarily. You see, floods can take place anywhere, because every area in the country experiences changes in topography. Soil moves (though very slowly) and, over time, this will have an impact on how flood-proof a city or town is.

If you are unsure as to how safe your neighborhood is from flooding, simply ask around – I’m sure there will be some old timers in your neighborhood who may (or may not) have experienced flooding some years ago. If flooding has occurred in your neighborhood (even if it was ten years ago), then your neighborhood will probably experience flooding again if a sufficient number of factors come into play.

Flood Facts

Hurricanes are more devastating than tropical storms, because they carry much more wind force, debris, and floodwater.

Both tropical storms and hurricanes can cause flooding, and both can cause massive damage to property. Coastal areas are more likely to experience the full extent of hurricanes; if you live in such an area, you may already be aware of the swiftness of the floods that strong hurricanes can bring.

During spring, melting snow and ice can cause flooding if you live near natural bodies of water such as ponds and streams. You may be wondering – why doesn’t the land absorb all of that melted snow?

Well, during winter everything freezes – including the soil. Frozen soil is not very absorbent, because the particles are stuck together and allow very little moisture to seep through.

The Northwestern region of the United States is at high risk for flooding due to excessive rainfall. Excess rainfall is often caused by the La Nina phenomenon, which affects different countries, not just the United States.

Wildfires can also increase the risk of flooding in certain areas. Studies show that regions that have frequent wildfires tend to develop strong mudflows during heavy downpours. These strong mudflows directly impact surrounding towns and cities.

Monitor Flooding in Your Area

When a flood watch is announced, that means there is a probability of flooding in your area. Listen to your radio, or tune in to your local news channel, to monitor the progression of the hurricane/ storm/ heavy downpour.

This also applies to a flash flood watch. If a flash flood watch has been announced, assume the worst and ready your emergency kit in case you have to evacuate your home.

When a local news station announces a flood warning or flash flood warning, prepare to leave your home in case there is a lot of water coming at your neighborhood.

Higher ground is your only true protection from floods. Do not attempt to face severe floods by staying at home – you will lose to Mother Nature, because water can flood even the most fortified of houses.

Driving in Flooded Areas

If you find yourself driving through flooded roads and a flooded neighborhood, here are some tips to keep yourself safe throughout the ordeal:

Knowing the height of the flood is of utmost importance if you want to try to drive through a flooded area. If you estimate six inches of floodwater, be aware that this much water can probably penetrate the inside of your car, and mess with your vehicle’s break system and transmission.

In a nutshell: driving through six inches of water will probably leave you wet and stranded in the middle of a flooded area, unless you are driving an extremely elevated four-wheel drive or a flatbed truck. If more water comes, more water will penetrate your car and this will cause additional hazards for you and your passengers.

An area that has at least twelve inches of flood water will automatically stall a vehicle and float it; don’t even try to drive through such areas. You will be stranded, and if the water goes up again, your car will be carried away by the current until the flood water finally subsides.

The best driving advice I can give you when you’re faced with a flooded road is to not drive through it at all. Find another road if possible. If you can’t, just wait until the flood subsides. It’s almost never worth the risk anyway.

Your intentions may be good (i.e. driving home to your family during a stormy night) but if there’s a flood, you might get stalled halfway through, and your family will have additional problems.

If a road has been recently barricaded due to flooding, don’t try to drive around the roadblocks. They were installed for a reason: to prevent people from being stalled or even floated away by floodwaters.

Driving at night through flood roads can be extremely dangerous. If you really have to drive through floodwater, use your brightest lights, and drive slowly so you can spot potential dangers on the road such as floating tree branches, and other debris. Also, it’s extra difficult to evaluate the depth of a flood at night; what may look like four inches of flooding to you may actually be seven inches of water or more.

Dealing with the Flood

If you are at home when the floodwaters arrive, don’t panic; here are specific guidelines to help you deal with the watery deluge:

If the power hasn’t been knocked out, turn the TV on and monitor the situation through your local news channel. Your radio is also your best friend when it comes to receiving updates from a local flood watch.

Has there been an announcement of a possible flash flood? If the answer is yes, seek higher ground immediately. If you have a second floor or third flood, just go upstairs after securing the first floor. Do not stay in the first floor if a flash flood is imminent!

In the event that flooding is imminent and you still have time, move all your patio furniture inside the house. If your house has a second or third floor, move electronic gadgets, large appliances, and other essentials upstairs.

Do this only if you have sufficient time; if not, simply elevate these items on tables, chairs, and even your kitchen counters. You can always fix your first floor after the flood. The important thing here is you will be keeping most of your expensive personal possessions safe during the flood, while you seek higher ground for yourself.

Water and electricity should be turned off in the event of a flood. Unplug all of your electrical appliances, including small items such as radios and fans. In the event that some of your appliances have become submerged in floodwater, and you were unable to unplug them, don’t touch them while they are still submerged in water.

It is actually dangerous to walk through moving floodwaters, so if you have to do it, make sure that the water is no more than five inches deep. Six inches of moving floodwater (with mud and debris) is enough to topple even fit people.

If the water is deep and you have to cross to be able to evacuate or get to your car, find a path across the floodwater that has less intense movement to ensure your safety.

If there are emergency services in your area, you can help the emergency personnel by keeping your family safe, and by keeping the area clear, so they can move around your neighborhood more easily.

After evacuating, you should only return to your home once it has been announced that the water has dissipated, and it is safe to return to your neighborhood. If no such announcements have been made, stay in the designated safe zone/ evacuation zone until the authorities give you and everyone else an all-clear signal.

In the event that your car or SUV suddenly stalls as you are driving away from your flooded house, leave your car and seek higher ground on foot you will have a better chance of getting help if you walk instead of trying to restart a wet and stalled vehicle. Remember: six to twelve inches of floodwater is enough to stall and float most vehicles. So, it doesn’t matter if you have a big SUV – water can still stall it.

During a flood, you will often find random spots where water has already receded. These spots are not necessarily safe to drive on or walk on because receded water often signals soft and weakened soil. Driving through such areas may be dangerous.

Beware of electrically charged floodwater. Electrical wires run underground and some wires may cause floodwater to become electrically charged.

Minimize or avoid submerging any part of your body in floodwater. Floodwater contains not only soil particles (i.e. mud) but also chemicals (such as gasoline) and in some instances, sewage. Sewage contamination is common – you do not want to experience wading through sewage-tinged floodwater, trust me.

If your septic tank or plumbing system have been damaged by flooding, have these serviced soon after the flood.

Turn on the power only once you have deemed the house dry enough. If you turn on the power immediately after the flood, someone might get accidentally electrocuted.

When Earthquakes Strike

Earthquakes, like flooding, can occur at any moment – but the good thing about today’s technology is that seismologists monitor seismic activity daily, so they can broadcast any impending earthquakes should they come. Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon that occurs when large sheets of rock under the soil suddenly release accumulated pressure and force.

You see, the Earth as a planet is always in a state of change. There are several layers of rock under the soil that we know so well; over time, shifts occur in these rocky layers, and when pressure has to be released, the ground that we walk on can shake so fiercely that buildings, roads and bridges crumble and collapse.

Countries like Japan are only too familiar with the devastating power of earthquakes. We can never know exactly when a powerful earthquake is about to strike a town or city, so it is best to be prepared for its sudden manifestation.

Again, if you have never experienced such an occurrence before, don’t rest easy – because according to studies, 45 states are actually at moderate risk for earthquakes in the United States. Though this phenomenon has historically been associated with the West Coast, facts show that other states are equally at risk.

If a possible earthquake has been announced in your area, you must start preparing for the potential disaster:

Make sure that you have an emergency kit ready. I will discuss emergency kits and emergency supplies at the end of this book.

Shelves and other wooden furniture should be secured to prevent them from toppling over during the actual earthquake.

Heavy objects should be placed as close as possible to floor level. During a quake, those heavy items will most likely fall, and that can be dangerous to you and your family. Imagine vases and heavy books falling all around you; earthquakes can easily do that to your home.

If you have frames and other hanging decorations near couches, remove these immediately. Place these near the floor level and away from beds, seats, couches, etc.

Lighting fixtures should also be secured and braced in the advent of an earthquake. If you don’t have to brace your fixtures at home, remove the light bulbs instead. It’s one thing to clean up fallen fixtures – it’s a completely different thing when you have to clean up shattered and powdered light bulbs. The dust from shattered light bulbs is poisonous – cover your nose and mouth if you have to clean up stuff like this.

Furnaces and large appliances should be fastened or bolted down to the floor if possible. Bolting down large appliances is considered a best practice because this will prevent the earthquake from toppling your expensive appliances. However, if this is not an option, what you can do is strap them to the wall. You should obtain the fasteners and straps/ rope now, before an earthquake strikes.

Most houses, especially those that are ten years old or older, have minor structural problems such as cracks in the walls and the foundation. Small cracks in the foundation can become massive fissures during an earthquake.

If you’re aware that your house has such defects, it is best to have these repaired as soon as possible by a professional. A strong earthquake can easily destroy a small home if it is in a neighborhood situated near the epicenter of a quake.

Perform regular checks of the foundation of your home. Checking the foundation every two to three months is a good practice.

Most homes have a fairly large supply of insecticides and other household chemicals. These chemicals must be stored securely in a bolted-down cabinet that can be closed with a latch or lock in the event of an earthquake.

Remember the DCH code during an earthquake: D (Drop), C (Cover), & H (Hold On).

Earthquake Facts

Earthquakes usually have aftershocks. Aftershocks are a series of mini-earthquakes that follow the main quake.

These mini-earthquakes always have a lower intensity, but they can be just as disruptive, especially when people are scrambling to pick up stuff that has been toppled after the main quake. It’s hard to get stable footing when there are several aftershocks after the main quake, so be careful.

A fault refers to the crack in the plates of rock underground. Even the smallest movement can result in an earthquake. In major earthquakes, the movement may reach up to several yards. The longer the movement, the more intense the earthquake.

It is important to understand how the magnitude of earthquakes is measured. The most commonly used system is the Richter scale. This system measures the intensity of earthquakes on a scale of 2 to 10:

- Less than 2 = these are classified as micro earthquakes; people don’t feel these micro earthquakes but these can be measured by special seismic equipment.

- 2 – 2.9 = micro earthquakes

- 3 – 3.9 = minor earthquakes that are felt by people but almost never cause damage to property

- 4 – 4.9 = ground movement can be felt indoors; it is unlikely that any massive damage will be caused by earthquakes within this range

- 5 – 5.9 = a moderate earthquake that may severely damage small and poorly constructed structures. May also cause minor damage to large and/ or well-built structures.

- 6 – 6.9 =       a strong earthquake that may cause property damage across an area measuring one hundred sixty kilometers from the epicenter of the quake.

- 7 – 7.9 = a major earthquake that can cause significant damage across an area that exceeds one hundred sixty kilometers in measurement.

- 8 – 8.9 = a great earthquake that may affect an area measuring hundreds of kilometers.

- 9 – 9.9 = a great earthquake that may affect an area exceeding one thousand kilometers.

- More than 10 = a massive earthquake that may destroy extremely large areas of land. As of today no earthquake of this magnitude has been recorded yet by seismologists.

Earthquakes can last from a few seconds to several minutes. The shaking or rocking movement is actually the ground below releasing seismic energy that is being transmitted or released by an even lower layer of the earth.

Seismic energy can be likened to sound energy – it travels in waves, and if the source continues to give off energy, the waves of energy will keep coming. The problem with earthquakes is that if the movement below the surface of the Earth is significant, the energy released will also be significant.

If you can imagine shaking a big bottle of soda, the force building up inside is similar to what’s happening underground.

Over time, pressure builds up, and that pressure doesn’t really dissipate – it has to be released because that’s how energy works. Unfortunately, when the energy is released, the top layer of the Earth shakes rather violently.

How to Act During an Earthquake

If you feel the ground shaking violently, there’s no time to lose:

Lower yourself to the ground immediately (drop), and find the sturdiest cover that you can (cover). Suitable cover during an earthquake includes desks, tables, and so on. Any piece of furniture that can protect you from falling debris can be used. Run for the kitchen or your home office, as these areas usually have the best earthquake covers.

If you cannot find any suitable cover, go to a corner of the house (one without any frames or cabinetry that may fall on you), and cover your head with your arms. Crouch as low as you can, and wait for the earthquake to subside.

Keep everyone crouched on the ground – don’t let anyone go running around the house to get cellular phones or gadgets just because there’s an earthquake. That is dangerous; you can call for help after the earthquake. Emergency services are probably on their way anyway, so there’s no need to call them.

The worst thing that could happen to you when you’re crouching on the floor is to get hit by falling picture frames, vases, and (heaven forbid) cabinets. That’s why I recommend seeking a corner that is as far away as possible from items that can fall on you.

However, you should also avoid spots near windows and light fixtures. Windows have glass, and glass can shatter or fall off during a violent earthquake. You can get hit by shattered glass or by fixtures.

If the earthquake strikes while you are still in bed, there is no need to panic. Beds are usually placed away from light fixtures and windows (unless your bed is right next to a window with several panes of glass), and are considered safe places during an earthquake.

Grab your biggest pillow, place it over your head, and wait out the earthquake. However, if you are right next to cabinets, shelves, heavy books, and glass windows, make a run for the nearest and safest corner, and crouch there. Don’t forget to cover your head with your arms. If you can find a better cover, such as a small table, use it to better protect yourself from any falling debris or items.

Some people think doorways are safe places to wait out an earthquake. They’re not. Unless a doorway has been specifically designed to be sturdy and load-bearing, doorways can actually collapse, so stay away from them. Pass through doorways only if they are nearby, and you know you can find a safer place to wait out the end of the earthquake.

Many people ask me: is it safer to go outside during an earthquake? The answer is no – because so many things can go wrong as you make a mad dash for the door. You can get hit by falling light fixtures,  furniture, large appliances, and heavy books sitting on top of shelves.

You can also get injured by tripping over electrical wirings, and other stuff that can be displaced during a strong earthquake.

If we were to examine the earthquake drills used in the United States and in other countries, the best practice is still to find the safest corner inside the structure and wait until the earthquake runs its course.

If an earthquake strikes while you are still at work, it’s better to stay put than to make a mad dash for the elevators. Ironically, this is the first thing people think to do when they are working several floors up. It’s dangerous to use elevators during an earthquake, because those things can easily malfunction.

You can end up getting stranded halfway down, or worse, the elevator you are riding might suddenly malfunction and plummet like a dead weight all the way down to the ground floor.

And no, jumping right before the perceived impact won’t make your landing any less deadly. The force of several tons of steel and cable is the same even if you jump a split second before impact.

During an earthquake, electrical and automatic systems like alarms (and even sprinklers) can suddenly activate. There is no point in trying to turn off these things, so just stay put. Also, power can easily go out due to fractured power lines, so be prepared to navigate in the dark afterward.

Do not try to locate a flashlight when the power goes out during an earthquake. Stay put, and focus on protecting yourself and those around you. It is important to have a cover above your head at all times because, if something falls on you and knocks you out, your chances of survival is greatly diminished if your city or town is hit by a massive earthquake.

What if you are outdoors during an earthquake? What should you do? Instinct often tells people to make a run for it, but this is the worst possible thing that you can do because you can trample others who are also making a crazy run for it, and you might end up getting hit by something that has already been toppled by the earthquake.

Just stay put during an earthquake. Move away from others who are running aimlessly to avoid getting trampled yourself. Don’t let anyone sway you into “running with the pack” because the “pack” doesn’t really know where it’s going.

Move away only if you need to, and you only really need to move if there is a power or telephone line nearby. Also, stay away from areas with big streetlights, as these can fall over quite easily during an earthquake. If you are driving, park your car away from the usual hazards and wait for the earthquake to stop.

Your car will serve as an adequate head cover from all falling hazards; it is foolhardy to lock your car and make a run for it. Also, buildings are considered hazardous to cars and pedestrians during an earthquake.

Wide-open spaces, such as parking lots, are your best friends when an earthquake suddenly strikes. Also: don’t drive during an earthquake! Stop as soon as you find a suitable spot, and wait for the earthquake (and its aftershocks) to stop before driving again.

In the event that your roof collapses and you find yourself unable to escape, you need to stay as calm as possible to survive. People who panic rarely survive this type of situation, because worrying and anxiety takes over so much that it clouds judgment. Here’s what to expect when you are buried by debris:

- It’s going to be really dark.

- There’s going to be a lot dust and other particles that might get into your mouth, eyes, and nostrils.

- The air around you might become stale and of poor quality.

- You might not be able to hear what’s happening outside, and you may not be able to gauge whether or not others can actually hear that you are trapped under the debris.

With these in mind, here are some extremely important pointers:

- Never try to light up your surroundings with a match or a lighter. This might sound strange but trust me – if your building or house collapsed, there is a big chance that flammable chemicals, or even gas, are present. You would not want to light a big fire while you are trapped under debris. If you have a cellular phone or small flashlight with you, use that instead.

- Moving about too much can disturb the dust around you, which makes breathing a lot harder. Don’t place yourself in a situation that you are fighting to breathe because you are inhaling so much dust with every breath.

- It is vital that you do not breathe in large amounts of dust particles while you are trapped. Use a handkerchief, or any piece of cloth, to cover your mouth and nose. If you have to use your shirt, use it. Unless it’s -5 degrees under the debris, you can probably survive a little chill. But if you suffocate from the dust, you might become unconscious.

- Popular culture has taught people a very bad technique when it comes to seeking help when a person is trapped under debris: screaming or shouting for help. Do not do this.

You will run out of air faster if you keep shouting. Shouting is physically taxing, and you will want to preserve your energy for as long as possible, because you don’t really know how long until emergency services will come to rescue you.

The ideal signaling tool in this type of situation is the whistle. In the absence of a whistle, you can tap on pipes or on the stone. The sound may be faint, but emergency personnel are excellent when it comes to detecting signs of life.

A faint tapping sound is all they need to start digging. Shout only if you hear them, but they can’t hear you. Don’t shout for hours until they get to you. Doing so will burn your energy, and you will also inhale a lot of nasty dust particles in the process.

Dealing with Deadly Heat

Heat waves occur in almost every part of the world, and in temperate countries, heat waves can cause serious health problems, especially with people who are not accustomed to hot weather.

A heat wave occurs when the temperature recorded in a given area far exceeds the usual temperature. Excessive heat often comes with excessive humidity, which makes the air hot and stuffy too.

A person who is unaccustomed to excessive heat may experience heat cramps (muscular cramping due to temperature change), and heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs when blood supply is diverted to the skin, and the organs receive less blood and oxygen.

The deadliest result of excessive environmental temperature is heat stroke. The body has a natural temperature control mechanism that keeps the body’s temperature at a constant level. This physiological mechanism is absolutely essential for survival, as the body requires precise conditions in order to thrive. If you push it too hard, it will eventually fail.

When a person suffers from a heat stroke, it means that his body’s temperature regulation mechanism has stopped, or is no longer functioning sufficiently to cool the body down. Brain damage is a real possibility during a heat stroke, so it is imperative that you get the victim of the heat stroke to a hospital as soon as possible.

Monitoring a Heat Wave

Just like earthquakes and floods, authorities and weather bureaus also monitor possible heat waves in certain areas so that people are able to prepare for excessive heat. When an excessive heat warning has been announced, that means that there is a possibility of a heat wave in the next 1 to 3 days.

Excessive heat warnings are broadcast when local temperatures reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit (110 degrees Fahrenheit is equivalent to 43 degrees Celsius). This kind of temperature can easily cause heat stroke, so it’s important that you monitor temperature changes during this time.

The Best Practices During Heat Waves

We can’t stop the environment from overheating, but we can keep ourselves safe throughout a heat wave. Here are some best practices that will protect you from any heat wave-related problems:

Keep track of the heat wave any way you can. Two decades ago, people only had three ways to keep track of the weather – newspaper, radio, and TV.

Now, people can monitor the weather constantly on personal computers and smartphones. Use the technology to monitor any changes in the weather – that’s one way of maximizing the utility of your smart device, too.

Never leave your children in enclosed spaces, such as your car. Even if the air-conditioning is on, your vehicle is still an enclosed space, and heat can still “cook” the passengers because the air inside the vehicle can become humid and stuffy.

This applies to pets as well. Your dog may have an excellent way of regulating body temperature, but it can still suffer from a heat stroke.

Your home is your shelter against a heat wave. You are safer in your house than anywhere else. Don’t go outdoors unless it is absolutely necessary.

Direct exposure to the sun is a big no-no when there is a heat wave, as the body can absorb heat fairly quickly from the environment. If you want your body to stay cool, you have to situate yourself in a location that is cool and temperature-controlled.

If you want to venture out during a heat wave, visit air-conditioned places like the library and the mall so you won’t suffer in the heat too much. Locations with circulating air are excellent during heat waves.

If the heat wave will last for days or even weeks, change your diet a little bit so your body won’t have to exert extra effort to digest your meals. Lighter meals are a must during heat waves.

Don’t use salt tablets; your body doesn’t need salt tablets to regulate your hydration. Just drink plenty of water (unless you have a health condition that may worsen with additional fluid intake).

Windows that receive the most amount of sunlight during the afternoon should be covered with drapes to reduce the heat coming into your home. Doors and windows should also be weather-stripped to keep out heat, and to keep the cooler air inside the home.

Statistically, people living in urban areas tend to experience longer bouts of heat waves than people who are living in rural areas. If you live in a highly urbanized area, take the necessary precautions and prepare for a worst-case scenario.

Hydration is absolutely necessary to keep oneself healthy during a heat wave. Drinking water cools down the body, and prevents dehydration. Drink water even if you feel perfectly fine and hydrated.

The body is actually poor at detecting hydration levels in the body – you may not feel thirsty until you are already partially dehydrated. So, drink fresh, cool water – it’s all your body needs during a heat wave to cool itself down.

Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and caffeinated products during a heat wave. Both of these kinds of beverages cause dehydration. Caffeine is a natural diuretic and people tend to urinate more when they’re drinking alcohol.

If you are working outside, don’t forget to protect your head from the heat. A hat with a wide brim offers excellent protection for the head.

Don’t forget to call or text people you know who live alone and do not have any air-conditioning installed. They may need your help.

Animals should be observed for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Call your vet if you think your pet is suffering from the heat.

First Aid Measures

In the event that you do encounter excessive heat-related health problems, here are some first aid tips:

Health Problem  

Signs  

First Aid Measures  

Sunburn  

 The skin is very red, and some pain is felt.  Blistering may be present as well.

Immediately take a bath to remove dirt and accumulated oils on the skin that may be preventing pores from working properly. Don’t forget to scrub well using a foamy soap to help remove excess oils. If there are any blisters on the skin of the patient, apply sterile dressings.  

Heat cramping  

 Patient  experiences painful muscular cramps in the abdominal area and the leg muscles. Excessive sweating is also common.

First, bring the patient to a location that has a significantly lower temperature. It’s the heat that’s causing the cramps; the patient has to rest elsewhere.

Perform light stretching on the affected muscles to relieve pain.

Give the patient some cool,fresh water. The patient shoulddrinkevery quarter of an hour. Small sips of the water are fine.

If the victim feels like throwing up, don’t give him any more water,just let him/her rest. Bring the patient to the hospital if his condition worsens.  

Heat exhaustion 

Patients experiencing heat exhaustion are often extremely sweaty, but their skin will have a rather pale pallor. The skin will also becool to the touch. The pulse rate will be relatively weak. The patient will  most likely feel exhausted and nauseated.  The patient’s body temperature may steadily rise if no first aid is given.

The patient must be taken away from the source of the excessive heat. If he is working outside, he must be taken inside (preferably to a room with good air-conditioning).

Loosen the patient’s collar, belt, pants, etc. Constrictive clothing can amplify the effects of heat exhaustion.

Give the patient a glass of water to slowly sip every fifteen minutes. If the victim feels like throwing up, again, don’t give him any more water.  

Heat stroke  

Victims of heat strokes often have a body temperature exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Breathing will be fairly rapid, but shallow compared to normal breathing. The skin of the patient will most likely be red, though sweating may not be present because the body’s temperature control mechanism has already failed.  

The first thing that you should do is to call emergency services. Perform first aid after you have made the call. A heat stroke is a dire medical emergency and the patient may die if no treatment is given.

Bring the patient to a cool location. If the patient is unconscious, carry him to the new location. Remove the victim’s clothing to help cool down the body.

Give the patient a sponge bath to help lower body temperature. This has to be done continually until emergency services arrive. Keep the patient as cool and comfortable as possible.

 Turn on any fans or air-conditioning units you may have in the room. 

Watch Out for Landslides

During a typical landslide, a significant amount of debris and mud rolls down the side of a mountain, straight for flat land – and that’s where most houses are built.

If you live near an area where landslides can take place after a heavy downpour, you have to make sure that you can you can protect yourself and your family from the destructive force of debris flow.

Preventive Measures

If you live in an area where mudflow is common, you need to make sure that your property is protected from any sudden debris flow. You can do this by following these simple preventive measures:

If you are going to build a house or a weekend getaway shack, don’t construct it near the side of the mountain, or near valleys where natural erosion takes place at an accelerated pace. Places with runoff from bodies of water are also a big no-no.

Be knowledgeable about the history of your land. If you are unsure if your property is in the path of mudflow, ask your local town hall. If your area experienced severe debris flow five or ten years ago, one good downpour is all it will take for that to happen again.

One can never tell whether or not a property will experience a landslide or not, so it is best to be prepared, even if no landslides have taken place in the past few years.

If your house is built on or near a slope, add some ground cover to strengthen the soil. Vegetation helps slow down erosion, which is the number one cause of debris flow.

Land bereft of significant vegetation often experiences flash floods and debris flow. This is the reason why denuded land not only harms local wildlife; it also harms people living nearby.

If you really want to protect your property from landslides, you may want to consider constructing retaining walls around your house.

Retaining walls may not stop all of the debris flow, but at least your home won’t be hit directly by the mud and debris. You will have a barrier around your house, and that will give you enough time to evacuate if you have to.

There are several warning signs that you must be aware of:

Check your surroundings for any significant changes in the landscape. If the slope of a nearby hill changes after a strong downpour, that might mean that mud and debris from the nearby hill may already be moving downward. You can also observe areas where runoff water usually passes. Minor landslides may also signal the advent of a bigger, and more destructive, landslide.

If your home is constructed on a steep slope, changes in the soil might affect your doors and windows. For example, your door may suddenly jam for no reason. If you have good reason to believe that this is related to changes in your land, have your house checked by a professional. Jammed windows may also signal a landslide.

Regularly inspect the foundation of your home. Do you see any new cracks forming in the foundation? If so, that may also be a sign of an impending landslide.

Water pipes and electrical lines are commonly installed underground. These utility lines are installed in such a way that moisture and soil would not normally break them.

However, during a landslide, movement underneath the soil can fracture water pipes and cut underground power lines. Only two common occurrences can cause the breakage of utility lines – earthquakes and landslides. Either way, you have to be prepared for the coming of a natural disaster.

Some slopes develop unsightly bulges right before a landslide.

Movement underneath the soil can cause water to spring from new cracks in the earth. If you see water erupting from different places, that too may signal the coming of a landslide.

Slopes that are about to become extremely eroded tend to become soft and loose. If your house is built on a steep slope, and you feel the ground shifting down whenever you walk, it’s time to check if a landslide is about to take place.

If you suddenly hear smashing boulders and trees being uprooted, the most common cause of such noises (if there is no one clearing the land at the moment) is a landslide.

Landslides won’t wait until sunrise to happen. A landslide can take place in the dead of the night, or right before the first rays of the sun emerge in the morning. That’s why it is so important to recognize the warning signs, so you will be prepared just in case.

Safety Guidelines During a Landslide

Storms are often accompanied by landslides, because of the sheer volume of water that the soil has to absorb during a heavy downpour. Mudflow channels that are usually stable become unstable because of the excessive water.

That water has to go somewhere, because the soil can’t absorb the moisture fast enough. With the help of gravity and erosion, landslides can take place in a blink of an eye.

With this in mind, you have to be extra vigilant when there is a storm, or heavy rain, and you live in a location where landslides have occurred before. During a heavy downpour, someone has to stay awake to monitor the situation.

Most landslide-related deaths happen because people were asleep when the landslide took place. You can either stay awake and keep everyone in the house safe, or sleep and end up submerged in debris. As you can see, there really is no other viable option here.

If you know that there is a landslide, and you know that it’s heading toward your home, get out of your home at once. Leave your stuff at home and drive away. Of course, find a path that doesn’t cross the path of the debris flow.

You can also just leave your car and make a run for it if the soil has become too soft. However, I have to warn you that landslides are fast, and can often overtake people on foot. So, if you have to run, run as far as possible from the landslide and avoid all spots/ areas where there is even a small amount of flowing debris.

Living near a natural body of water, like a pond, stream, or river is great. But during storms, these bodies of water can actually endanger you by increasing the chances of flooding and debris flow.

So, during storms it is important that you monitor not only the slope of the land, but also the level of water in the body of water nearby.

Fluctuations in water level may mean that there is soil and debris movement somewhere else, and you know what that means: eventually, that debris flow will reach your property, too.

Landslides, like earthquakes, are unpredictable. They can go on for a few minutes, stop, and start again. Stay away from your home during a landslide and wait for the authorities to announce that it’s safe to go back.

If you go back too early, you run the risk of exposing yourself and your family to peril from another landslide. Remember: eroding soil, mud, and debris can flow ceaselessly after a storm.

There’s no telling how much erosion has taken place, so it is best to just stay in the evacuation shelter until the landslide is truly over.

If gas, water, and electrical lines are destroyed during a landslide, call the utility companies as soon as possible so they can repair these lines the same day.

Check the surrounding area for injured individuals. Unless you are highly trained emergency personnel, it is best to just call emergency services so you can tell them where to go. Don’t bite off more than you can chew during a disaster.

Replanting trees, shrubs, and other vegetation can help prevent landslides; don’t forget to do this after the landslide. Planting more vegetation now may mean that there will be no more landslides in five or ten years.

Beating Wildfires

Every year, more and more new homeowners decide to build or buy homes near woodlands and forests, so they can take pleasure in the beauty of nature. Unfortunately, these beautiful stretches of trees, bushes and grass can easily catch fire on a hot and dry day.

All it takes is a small fire to ignite a wildfire inferno that can spread for miles before emergency services can extinguish it.

Wildfires are especially difficult to control, because the fire itself can spread so quickly through the bush with little effort. If the grasslands are dry, and the winds are blowing regularly through the land, the fire can lick across miles of dry land in a matter of minutes.

Sometimes, wildfires start instantaneously because of extremely hot weather. Other large wildfires start because of accidents (like in 2007, when a young boy admitted that he had been playing with matches that started a wildfire that destroyed 38,000 acres of land).

Regardless of the cause, if the wildfire is there, you have to deal with it, especially if it’s only a few hundred meters away from your house. People die in wildfires because they don’t know what to do once it’s already there. We don’t want this to happen – that’s why I prepared a special section that deals specifically with wildfires.

Pre-Wildfire Preparations

Living near forests and grasslands is excellent for the mind and body - but unfortunately, living so close to nature does have its drawbacks.

Wildfires can start at any moment if you have extremely dry weather. So, if you are going to build a house near a forest, it is best to construct your home in such a way that it won’t be feeding any wildfire, if it should come in the future.

Fireproof, or fire-resistant, construction materials are a little more expensive than regular lumber, but it’s well worth it if you think your home is in the path of a wildfire waiting to happen.

Your landscape has a direct impact on how quickly a wildfire can get to your house. So, if you want to plant trees and other vegetation, choose the ones that resist fire, such as hardwood trees. This type of vegetation can help slow down advancing wildfire.

Install a sufficient number of smoke alarms throughout the house, so you will be warned of an oncoming wildfire any time of the day.

These smoke alarms should be tested once every 30 days, and their batteries should be replaced regularly. If you don’t replace the batteries regularly, the smoke alarms might not work properly, and that can endanger you and your family.

Invest in two or three large fire extinguishers (ABC fire extinguishers are the best choice). Every person in your household should know how to use these fire extinguishers.

So, if your teenager is at home and you’re not, your son/ daughter can still put out any small fires at home that may otherwise begin a wildfire.

The ABC classification on fire extinguishers stand for fuel source of the fire: A – ordinary combustible materials such as paper, textile, plastics, etc., B – flammable items such as gasoline, and C – electrical equipment such as television sets, appliances, etc. An ABC fire extinguisher can quell fire that is being fed by any of these fuel sources.

Fire tools like rakes should be readily available; keep them where you can grab one and go within a matter of seconds.

Invest in a large and strong ladder that can be used to reach the roof of your home.

If you have the funds, it doesn’t hurt to invest in window drapes that are fire-resistant. If a wildfire reaches your home, the drapes will help slow down the advancing fire, which will give you time to escape. These items will also help control the devastation of your home.

In the event of a wildfire, it is best to remove items around your house that can easily catch fire. The more you can delay the advance of the wildfire, the better.

Place all combustible items in a defensible zone that the fire cannot reach. Call emergency services immediately to inform the authorities that a wildfire has reached your area already.

You will need at least one major source of water outside your home so you can effectively combat fire, should it come. Having a small pool is excellent, but you can also try to locate a nearby stream or pond where you can get water to extinguish wildfire.

You should also invest a big water hose that is long enough so it can be used to extinguish fire that may erupt in any part of your house (i.e. roof, ceiling, walls, porch area, etc.)

Handling an Actual Wildfire

The moment that you see a wildfire, the first thing that you should is pick up your mobile phone or landline and call 911. Don’t panic – the dispatcher needs to know your exact location and the circumstances of the emergency before being able to respond.

After finishing the call, proceed with the other guidelines. Don’t skip this first step because, trust me, if the wildfire becomes really big you are going to need all the help that you can get.

A wildfire can consume everything in its path, so if it’s heading right for your home, grab your emergency supplies/ kit and arrange for temporary housing somewhere else. It can be your parents’ house or a friend’s house.

It can be anywhere, as long as it is as far away as possible from your location. If you have to stay in a hotel for a couple of days, do it. The purpose of this relocation is keeping everyone safe. You can proceed with other temporary housing plans later on.

It can get extremely hot when there’s a wildfire, so don’t venture out without protective clothing. Pants and long sleeve shirts are a must. Wear shoes or boots that will fully protect your feet from the heat.

If you have work gloves, wear those as well to protect your hands from singeing. Your face also requires protection – in the absence of a gas mask (which only a few people have, anyway), tie a large handkerchief or shirt over your mouth and nose to protect them from dust particles and superheated gases. 

Get all of the fire tools that you can, so you can protect your home from the fire. Note that if the fire becomes too large for you to contain, you should get out of there as soon as possible – drive away or make a run for it! Fire tools include shovels and lots of plastic buckets to carry water.

Homes have natural vents (living room windows, kitchen windows, doors, basement ventilation, etc.). All of these vents must be closed immediately during a wildfire. If you leave these vents open, fire will be able enter your house that much faster.

Sources of fuel, like propane, should be shut off immediately. It’s not enough to turn off your oven and stove – you have to turn the valves that control the flow of fuel from the containers themselves.

If the wildfire is still a few miles away, you don’t need to leave your house just yet. But at this point in time, it would be a good idea to drive your car near the road.

Close the doors and windows, but leave the key inside (in the ignition, preferably). Turn off the engine and just leave your vehicle there, so you can use it immediately the moment that you spot the fire coming too close to your house.

Important documents, such as birth certificates and religious mementos, should be placed in a portable, fireproof safe box, and carried to the car.

Bring only the documents that you really cannot live without. Leave the other documents because you don’t want to pile junk into your car when you are fleeing a wildfire.

If you have a pool, or large tub, place all of the stuff that will not be destroyed by water in the large tub/swimming pool. Of course, you will have to fill the pool with water.

The purpose of this is to keep some of your possessions safe from the fire. Items such as porcelain vases and dining wares can safely be submerged in water without causing them any damage.

Most of our material possessions are extremely flammable. If possible, move all of your stuff away from the windows and doors. Put them in the middle of the floor so fires will touch them last.

All doors and windows should be closed, but don’t lock any of them. If your house does catch fire, firefighters may need to enter your home. If you lock the doors and windows, they will use axes and hammers to get through.

Using Your Vehicle During a Firestorm

Though I do not recommend it in all cases of wildfire, you can use your vehicle as a temporary bunker against a firestorm. If your choice is between running from a fire on foot, and using your vehicle, you will be safer inside your vehicle. Here are some tips to keep you safe during a firestorm:

All air vents should be closed once you enter the vehicle. Headlights should be turned on; find a path that doesn’t have too much smoke. You should be able to see where you’re driving.

You don’t want to drive through a raging inferno – your tires will pop and you will be literally cooked alive if you drive through fire. Drive away from a firestorm, not through it.

Never park close to vegetation. It’s the vegetation that is catching fire in the first place. Sooner or later, the vegetation that has not yet burned down will be burned down by the firestorm, if the bushes and trees are in close proximity with the wildfire.

If you are completely surrounded by fire, stay inside your vehicle! Some of the smoke outside may enter, but you are far safer inside than outside. Let the main fire run its course; do not make a run for it on foot, because you will be toasted alive outside.

You may feel air currents buffeting your car – this is normal. Don’t worry; it’s only in the movies that gas tanks explode. If your vehicle is in good condition, and your gas tank is closed and secured, your car is not likely to explode.

Not all disasters come from Mother Nature – some are due to man’s activities (terrorist hazards), and technological failure (blackouts). This next section of the book will cover a variety of hazards to ensure that you will be able to handle most disasters with ease. Knowledge is indeed power when it comes to disaster preparedness.

Part 2: Other Hazards

Blackouts

Most cities rarely experience blackouts – but what should you do when power supply suddenly becomes cut off, and you are left in complete darkness?

Pre-Blackout Preparations

Have your emergency kit ready.

Conserving energy is one way of directly preventing blackouts. The less power you consume, the more electrical energy there is to distribute to thousands of households around the city.

Rolling blackouts occur because there isn’t enough energy to go around, and electric companies tend to impose these blackouts because people are overusing electrical energy. Yes – there is such a thing as energy overuse in the age of nuclear power.

Fill plastic bags with water and place them in the freezer or refridgerator. These plastic bags will help keep meats and vegetables fresh in the event that a blackout takes place. Blackouts can last for days in some cases; meat can easily go bad if you don’t prepare these chilled/ iced bags in advance.

If you use a medication like insulin, you need to keep freezing containers nearby. Freezing containers contain special fluids that remain cold even if the refrigerator is turned off.

Always keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full. Gas pumps are powered by electricity. During a blackout, gas stations (which may not have a backup generator) may be unable to serve you gas if you need to travel.

Many homes have an automatic, electric garage door. These garage doors may be safe and convenient, but they become absolutely useless during blackouts. It’s a good thing that electric garage doors are always equipped with manual release levers. Manual release levers allow the owner to open and close the garage doors even if there isn’t any power.

Make sure that you know where the manual release lever is, and how to use it during blackouts. You don’t want to be stuck at home with no way of using your car because the garage door won’t open.

Some folks like using the garage entrance to enter their homes; this might not be your best route inside if there’s a blackout. So, just to make sure that you will be able to enter your house during a blackout, carry a spare key to your house with you at all times.

If you use a motorized wheelchair or battery-operated scooter, make sure that you have a spare battery (fully charged, of course), so you don’t have to worry about not being able to move during the blackout.

Blackout Safety Guidelines

The following are safety guidelines that can be used when a blackout is upon you:

Candles are a big no-no during blackouts, because these can easily fall over and burn down part of the house. You also cannot really depend on live fire (i.e. candles), because these tend to run out fairly quickly. Invest in high-quality LED flashlights, and emergency lights, instead.

A 40-bulb LED flashlight can last for up to 24 hours if fully charged. You can also install LED lamps throughout your home; you can just turn on these LED lamps during a blackout. Since modern LED lights are very bright, your home would be well illuminated throughout the blackout.

Avoid opening your refrigerator if you don’t really have to get something inside. You need to maintain the coolness inside your refrigerator for as long as possible in order to keep the contents fresh and bacteria-free.

Electric generators should never be kept and operated inside the house. If you want to use a generator, place it outside (in a secure spot, away from moisture, children, and pets) and operate it from there. That way, if something goes wrong (or the generator suddenly catches fire), your home will be safe.

Electrical generators work best if you connect the electrical equipment you need to use directly to the various outlets in the generator. Do not hook your home’s main power line directly to the generator, because this might overload it. An overloaded generator will probably stall, or worse, overheat and quite possibly catch fire.

Battery-operated radios and television sets can be used to listen to local news to get updates.

Emergency services (911) were put in place to respond to life-threatening situations any time of the day. Do not call them just to ask how long the blackout will be.

They might know (or they might know who to call), but it is really not their job to relay such information. If there is a rolling blackout and you want to know when it will be over, call the utility company instead.

If it becomes really cold because there is no heat, add additional layers of clothing to keep warm. Do not use your oven as an “instant furnace.” It is also a bad idea to burn charcoal inside the house just so you can cook (if you are using electric stoves and the like). If you want to use charcoal, grill or cook your food outside.

Pets can become dehydrated if it gets too hot or too cold inside your home. Don’t forget to give them fresh water to drink.

Safety During a Hazardous Materials Incident

It’s a fact of life – modern society has become completely dependent on the use of different chemical compounds to accomplish specific goals, such as creating higher-yielding crops, improving the quality of the water that runs through our faucets, and so on.

There is nothing wrong with the proper use of chemicals. In fact, the convenient and comfortable life that we now enjoy is partly the result of the use of different industrial compounds and chemical materials.

However, there are times that the very same chemicals that help society move along actually endanger whole communities.

When vast amounts of chemicals are mishandled, or accidentally released into the environment, a hazardous materials incident manifests.

This is considered a disaster not only for the environment, but also for people. Industrial chemicals, such as mercury, (which is used to fabricate items like light bulbs), can cause serious health problems for people.

If such chemicals were handled and stored properly, there would be no threat to the public. But what should you do if an HMI does manifest? This section deals with this pressing question.

HMI Safety Guidelines

Local authorities treat HMIs very seriously, because if the HM is toxic to people, far-reaching health consequences may threaten the public. The authorities will most likely advise the public to do one or several things during an HMI.

Local authorities will ask people to evacuate their homes  

If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Don’t wait three or ten hours before evacuating your home, just because you need to pack stuff before you leave.

That puts your life, and everyone else’s lives, in your hands. If local authorities ask families to leave their homes, that means there is an immediate health risk due to the HMI.

Evacuation routes will be set up by the local authorities. Have a radio or portable television on to monitor announcements from the authorities and local emergency personnel.

During evacuations, you can either go to the designated evacuation shelters, or you can arrange for temporary lodging elsewhere.

It’s up to you – people won’t force you to drive to emergency evacuation shelters. Just make sure that your choice of temporary lodging is as far away as possible from the site of the HMI.

If your neighbors seem to be unaware of what’s happening, devote a few minutes to tell them what’s going on so they can make the necessary preparations.

If there is an HMI and you are still far from home  

If you are very near the site of the HMI, drive or walk somewhere upwind. Air can carry toxic chemicals far and wide, so an area that is upwind is necessary to keep yourself safe. Half a mile is a good distance from an HMI site.

If you can go farther, do it. If you are in an area where you see solid particles and chemical mists all around you, do not touch, and minimize inhalation!

Cover your face as much as possible with cloth, and keep walking. It is foolhardy to inspect any chemicals lying on the ground - don’t even think of touching the stuff, because we don’t know what it is (unless the authorities have already announced what exactly has happened).

If you see people who are injured by chemicals, do not try to go near them! It’s one thing to call 911 to ask for help, but it’s a completely different proposition when you come near someone to tend to their wounds. That’s too much risk for you; let emergency personnel respond. The best thing that you can contribute to the situation is a call to 911. That is enough help.  

An HMI is announced while you are driving home from/ to work 

Unless you are already very far from the site of the HMI (say ½ mile at least), I suggest that you park your vehicle somewhere upstream and just wait for further announcements.

It might be dangerous to drive further, because the chemicals may have already spread through the air. During this time, it is wise to turn off the air-conditioning in your car, because air-conditioning requires the use of the car’s vents.

Vents can let in chemicals lingering in the air. All doors and windows must be shut, too. Put up with the heat – trust me it is well worth the wait.

Also, turn off the engine to conserve gas. You never know how much travelling you will be doing,now that an HMI is in progress.  

 Local authorities advise everyone to stay at home and not venture outside until further announcements are made. 

Kids and pets should come inside; no exceptions. Pets are equally at risk during HMIs. If a person can suffocate or suffer from nervous system damage, so can animals like cats and dogs.

Doors, windows, and other vents should be locked tightly.

Your home’s air-conditioning system and ventilation system should be turned off temporarily until authorities say that the danger has passed. The reason for this guideline is that air from the outside can easily get  inside if the ventilation system is still on. You do not want that to happen during an HMI, trust me.

Biological Warfare

Terrorist organizations may use biological agents, such as anthrax, to strike fear among the population. While the federal government does the best to prevent such attacks, it is still possible, and terrorist groups can strike anywhere in the country.

As citizens, we must protect ourselves from such threats, because, in the end, our knowledge of these threats is what will really save us from possible illness or death.

Biological warfare centers on the use of microorganisms and toxic chemicals to harm people, animals, and even agricultural crops.

History has taught us how people can become really creative with biological agents. Biological agents can be spread through air, water, and even food. Toxic agents can even be delivered through the use of aerosol cans.

Safety Guidelines During a Biological Attack

Monitor the news for any updates regarding the possible biological attack. Local and national authorities usually take their time to formulate updates for the public, so don’t expect to get all the information you will need in just one news update.

The authorities will probably give updates every hour regarding the situation, so it is best to just leave the radio or TV on to receive the updates as they are broadcasted.

If you find a suspicious material or substance nearby, don’t try to visually inspect it, and don’t try to touch it. Get away from the suspicious material quickly. The longer you stay in the vicinity, the higher the risk for toxin/ bacteria exposure.

In the event that you’re outdoors during a possible biological attack, you need to protect your eyes, nose, mouth, and ears, as these orifices are targets for toxins and other rogue biological agents. Exposed skin, such asyour hands, legs, and arms, should be covered, too, at the very least by a thin piece of cloth.

What should you do if you have already been exposed? All your clothes, and all the stuff that you have been carrying with you, should be properly disposed.

Yes, that means you have to throw away clothing and even your bag. Local authorities will probably release a bulletin outlining the proper method of disposing of such items after a possible/ actual biological attack.

When you come home after exposure, the first thing that you should do is to take a good long bath. Scrub yourself well with soap, and put on fresh, clean clothes.

Most biological agents actually die when they come into contact with sunlight, water, etc. That’s why it is so important that you take a bath quickly to rid your skin of any lingering toxins or microorganisms that may cause harm later on.

If you have been severely exposed, do not expose others to the same risk. Contact emergency personnel and inform them what happened. You may be asked to quarantine yourself until emergency personnel arrives to help decontaminate and treat you.

A biological attack may, or may not, produce illness and health hazards. It’s good to be suspicious if you or someone else in the family gets sick all of a sudden after a possible biological attack. But this doesn’t mean that every symptom that you feel is caused by a biological attack. Don’t run to the emergency room every time you feel something odd (i.e. you have a sudden cold).

Local authorities will post a list of symptoms related to identified biological agents. If you find some of these symptoms have manifested, contact emergency personnel immediately.

Terrorist Attacks & Explosives

The history of the United States pre- and post-World War II has been marred by many terrorist bombings. The dire memory of the 9/11 attacks has left a deep scar in the collective psyche of Americans everywhere. This is why we should also be prepared to protect ourselves in the event of a terrorist bombing.

Explosives Facts

The technology of bomb making has become highly advanced in the past few decades. Explosives that pack a massive payload during detonation can be carried in small suitcases, or strapped on by terrorist members.

Explosives are lightweight and often innocuous-looking; that is what makes these explosives twice as deadly, because most folks won’t even know that there is a bomb in a public place until the blast occurs.

Bombs can be transported by small cars, large trucks, (i.e. Oklahoma City bombing), and individuals. Explosives can even be strapped on a human body, along with the wirings.

Bombs can be left in public places and detonated wirelessly using a remote bomb trigger. Bombs can also be placed in public utility vehicles, such as buses and trains, to cause the most harm to public infrastructure (i.e. train tracks), and people.

Bomb attacks can happen anywhere and anytime; terrorists tend to move when the public is at ease and unsuspecting.

Handling a Bomb Threat

Bomb threats can be real, or just pranks. We all hope that they are pranks, because pranks can be rendered harmless by their intended recipients.

But, if you do receive a telephone call from someone who is aware of a bomb being placed in your building, or in a building nearby, you need to get as much information from the person on the other end of the line. You can ask the following questions:

When is the bomb going to be detonated?

What is the location of the explosive device?

What does the explosive device look like?

What kind of explosive device has been placed in the building?

What would trigger the explosion of the bomb?

Is the caller the person responsible for placing the explosive device?

There is no assurance that the caller will be cooperative and answer all these questions, but it’s good to try; who knows, the person might answer some questions, and give you vital information that will aid the authorities later on.

Write down everything you hear in a notebook or on a piece of paper before saying goodbye. Right after receiving the bomb threat, call 911 and relay all of the information that you have received over the phone. Spare no detail.

Do not be afraid to relay the information to the authorities. It is also a good idea to call someone at the target building to inform them of what you have just learned. Time is pure gold when there is a bomb threat; one never knows when the bomber will detonate the explosive device.

Characteristics of Suspicious and Potentially Deadly Packages

Over the years, professional postal inspectors and local authorities have amassed a list of characteristics that make a package or parcel suspicious.

Suspicious parcels may or may not contain explosives: there’s a 50/50 chance, so if you do find a suspicious parcel, you should contact the authorities right away.

Do not open or come near any suspicious parcels or packages! The following are some characteristics of packages that should rouse your suspicion:

You receive a package from someone that you do not know at all.

The package itself does not have a return address.

There are strange notes written on top of the package such as “Do Not Xray.” Such signage is usually meant to prevent postal inspectors from finding out what is inside the package.

The package smells strange.

The package has protruding metal wires.

The postmark on the package does not match the return address that is also written on the package.

The package has an odd weight.

The package has an odd shape.

The package has been marked with a threatening message.

You feel that the contents of the package have been wrapped with an excessive amount of bubble wrap, paper, or strings.

The message on the package has strange misspellings.

The package has been addressed to someone in your home, company, or business that left a long time ago.

Addresses present on the package have been handwritten (and poorly, at that).

Surviving a Blast

If there is a bomb blast, think and act fast to keep yourself safe until you are able to relocate yourself as far away as possible from the blast site. Here are some additional guidelines:

If debris is falling from the ceiling, find a suitable cover, such as a strong table, and get underneath. Cover your face and your head to protect yourself from flying debris.

Explosions are intended to harm the largest number of people ,and cause structural damage. Part of the building where the explosion has taken place may be significantly weakened after the blast. You need to get out of the building as fast and as safely as you can, because there might be additional blasts.

If you are on the top floor of a building, use the stairs, not the elevators, to go down. Stairs are safer; elevators may malfunction, or may have been rigged as well.

Observe your surroundings: is there a fire starting somewhere close to you?

Once you are out of a bombed building, get as far away as possible from the site. Do not wait idly around windows and doors, as these can shatter or explode suddenly if there is a fire.

If you find yourself trapped by fallen debris, use your cellular phone, or a small flashlight, to signal to rescuers. Avoid unnecessary movement and don’t breathe in excessive dust.

Emergency Kit

The following are supplies and equipment that should be assembled ahead of time. This emergency kit can be used in any disaster scenario.

Medications  

Glasses or contact lenses  

Milk formulas  

Diapers  

Food for your pets  

Water for your pets  

Essential documents, such as  birth certificates and bank-related documents 

Cash 

Traveler’s checks  

Spare change  

First-aid manual  

A thick blanket for each person in the family 

A sleeping bag for each person in the family  

Comfortable and protective clothes for yourself and your family  

Bleach  

Fire extinguisher (ABC type)  

Matches  

Personal care items  

Paper plates, disposable spoons and forks, paper towels, etc.  

Notebook or paper  

Pen  

Items that can be used by children to entertain themselves  

A gallon of fresh water for each member of the family  

Three days’ supply of food 

Battery-operated TV  

Battery-operated radio  

Extra batteries  

Flashlight  

Whistle 

First-aid kit  

A dust mask for each member of the family  

Garbage bags  

Pliers  

Can opener  

Maps  

Spare mobile phones with fully charged batteries  

References

Websites

Earthquakes

http://www.ready.gov/earthquakes [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before an Earthquake

http://www.ready.gov/earthquakes [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Know the Terms (Earthquake)

http://www.ready.gov/earthquakes [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During an Earthquake

http://www.ready.gov/earthquakes [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After an Earthquake

http://www.ready.gov/earthquakes [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Extreme Heat

http://www.ready.gov/heat [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before Extreme Heat

http://www.ready.gov/heat [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Know the Terms

http://www.ready.gov/heat [Accessed 8 April 2012]

First Aid for Heat Induced Illnesses

http://www.ready.gov/heat [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Floods

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before a Flood

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Know the Terms

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During a Flood

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After the Flood

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Staying Healthy

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Cleaning Up and Reparing Your Home

http://www.ready.gov/floods [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Landslide and Debris Fall

http://www.ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before a Landslide

http://www.ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Recognize Landslide Warning Signs

http://www.ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During a Landslide

http://www.ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After a Landslide

http://www.ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Wildfires

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before a Wildfire

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Plan Your Water Needs

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Preparing Your Home for a Wildfire

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Practice Wildfire Safety

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During a Wildfire

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Surviving in a Vehicle

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After a Wildfire

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Hazards after Wildfires: Flood and Landslides

http://www.ready.gov/wildfires [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Blackouts

http://www.ready.gov/blackouts [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before a Blackout

http://www.ready.gov/blackouts [Accessed 8 April 2012]

People With Disabilities and Other Access and Functional Needs

http://www.ready.gov/blackouts [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During a Blackout

http://www.ready.gov/blackouts [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Using a Generator

http://www.ready.gov/blackouts [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After a Blackout

http://www.ready.gov/blackouts [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Hazardous Materials Incidents

http://www.ready.gov/hazardous-materials-incidents [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before a Hazardous Materials Incident

http://www.ready.gov/hazardous-materials-incidents [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During a Hazardoues Materilas Incident

http://www.ready.gov/hazardous-materials-incidents [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Shelter Safety for Sealed Rooms

http://www.ready.gov/hazardous-materials-incidents [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After a Hazardous Materials Incident

http://www.ready.gov/hazardous-materials-incidents [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Biological Threats

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before a Biological Threat

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Filtration in Buildings

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Using HEPA Filters

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During a Biological Threat

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Cover Your Nose and Mouth

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Symptoms and Hygiene

http://www.ready.gov/biological-threats [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Explosions

http://www.ready.gov/explosions [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Before an Explosion

http://www.ready.gov/explosions [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Bomb Threats

http://www.ready.gov/explosions [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Suspicious Packages and Letters

http://www.ready.gov/explosions [Accessed 8 April 2012]

During an Explosion

http://www.ready.gov/explosions [Accessed 8 April 2012]

After an Explosion

http://www.ready.gov/explosions [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Emergency Supply List

http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/checklist_1.pdf [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Family Supply List

http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/familylist%5B1%5D.pdf [Accessed 8 April 2012]

Table of Contents

How to Use This Book

Part 1: Natural Disasters

Introduction

Surviving a Flood

Flood Facts

Monitor Flooding in Your Area

Driving in Flooded Areas

Dealing with the Flood

When Earthquakes Strike

Earthquake Facts

How to Act During an Earthquake

Dealing with Deadly Heat

Monitoring a Heat Wave

The Best Practices During Heat Waves

First Aid Measures

Watch Out for Landslides

Preventive Measures

Safety Guidelines During a Landslide

Beating Wildfires

Pre-Wildfire Preparations

Handling an Actual Wildfire

Using Your Vehicle During a Firestorm

Part 2: Other Hazards

Blackouts

Pre-Blackout Preparations

Blackout Safety Guidelines

Safety During a Hazardous Materials Incident

HMI Safety Guidelines

Biological Warfare

Safety Guidelines During a Biological Attack

Terrorist Attacks & Explosives

Explosives Facts

Handling a Bomb Threat

Characteristics of Suspicious and Potentially Deadly Packages

Surviving a Blast

Emergency Kit

References