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This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about planning for and responding to disasters, whether they’re natural or man-made. We’ve been talking about how important it is to plan for communication among your family. It’s also important to have supplies ready in case of disaster.
Patrick Tiner, a disaster response expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says it’s a good idea to keep some basic supplies stocked at home and in each car. Supplies should include a first-aid kit, maps, flashlights and extra batteries. If you have young children, some books and small toys are also good to have. Be careful about keeping any kind of food or water on hand for long periods. When there is word of a pending potential disaster, such as a hurricane moving in your direction, add supplies such as bottled water, blankets, pillows, weather-appropriate outerwear, and packaged or canned food — and don’t forget the can opener.
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September 2007
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