Brian Dakss is a longtime New York-based editor and writer for CBS News, at the Radio network and with CBSNews.com. He has written and edited for NBC News, Dow Jones and numerous radio stations and been a radio anchor and reporter.
We hit the "save" button on our computers frequently; we carry a nail file "just in case" but, according to the American Red Cross, only one in four households in the United States is properly prepared for a big disaster — with things such as an emergency kit and a family plan.
Many homes aren't even prepared for a fire.
But on The Early Show Tuesday, Kris Connell of Real Simple magazine suggested steps you can take to be ready, should disaster hit.
For starters, says Connell, don't think of preparing for a disaster as a downer. Rather, think of it as a responsible thing to do.
Other observations from Connell:
HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCIES
These may not be as devastating as a natural disaster such as a hurricane or an earthquake, but you should still prepare for them and think about ways to avoid them.
Power outage: We all tend to plug too many appliances into one or two outlets using extension cords and other items. Avoid losing power by not overloading any one outlet.
Also, know where the nearest flashlight is, and store one in each bedroom if possible. Avoid lighting candles; they could cause a fire if you're not careful.
Fire: Have a fire extinguisher on hand. Choose a "multipurpose" extinguisher: They're labeled as "ABC," meaning they can fight fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. Make sure you have one in the kitchen, garage, and wherever your hot water heater is located.
Have an escape route your home. Map out two from every room. Place at least one preassembled, flame-resistant safety escape ladder near a window on each floor of your home. A 13-foot ladder should be long enough for a two-story home. Find them at safetyproductsunlimited.com. Also, pick an outdoor meeting spot for the family.
NATURAL DISASTERS
Mother Nature can't be stopped, but you can minimize the impact if you have a plan. Whether you live on the hurricane-prone coast of South Carolina, in tornado alley of Oklahoma, or on earthquake-prone property in California, you'll be better equipped to battle nature with:
Regional information: Get Informed. Contact your local Red Cross chapter or emergency management office. To find one near you, go to FEMA.gov and select "State Offices and Agencies." Ask for information about the types of disasters you may encounter, as well as their timing and severity, especially if you're new to an area and unaware of potential risks.
Ask these groups about community-response plans, potential sites for emergency shelters, and warning procedures used. "Some level of chaos breaks out no matter how small a disaster," says psychiatrist Joseph Napoli, coauthor of 'Resiliency in the Face of Disaster and Terrorism: 10 Things to Do to Survive.' The more you know beforehand, the less frantic you'll feel."
Emergency kit: Create a kit that contains your survival essentials. Store it in a waterproof container and place it in an easily accessible location. "Your kit should allow you to be self-sufficient for at least three days," says Keith Robertory, an emergency preparedness expert with the American Red Cross. "Although the recent hurricanes indicated otherwise, that's typically enough time for help to get to you."
Disaster plan: Choose two meeting spots. Sure, in the best case of a worst-case scenario, your family will be together when an earthquake rumbles beneath your town. But if you're scattered, you'll need a meeting place. Pick two locations where your family can congregate if conditions allow: one close to your house, in case of something like a fire, and one outside your immediate neighborhood, in case nearby streets are closed.
Choose a family member or friend who lives out of state to be your contact person. After a disaster, it may be easier to call long distance than locally, notes Robertory. As soon as it's possible, each member of your family should call that person to make his or her location known.
GRAB AND GO KIT
Prepare a mini-emergency kit you can grab in a hurry. Keep it in the trunk of your car or under your desk at work. "Think about what you want to have on hand when you travel, and pack at least those basics," says Robertory.
For most people, that includes:
Food and water: Three days' worth of nonperishable food and water. Also, an extra supply of essential medication (for example, insulin, antidepressants, and other prescription medicines). "Nothing's worse than going through a stressful situation without your blood-pressure pills," says Robertory.
One region-specific change of clothing. In addition to the basics, pack a jacket if you may be out in the elements and a hat if you're sensitive to sunlight.
Important papers: Make photocopies of your driver's license, credit cards, and other important documents, and jot down important phone numbers, such as those of your bank, insurer, and other service providers. "Some people are cautious about writing or photocopying account numbers, but if you have your bank's phone number and can relay to them your pertinent personal information, they won't even need your account number," says Robertory.
Portable radio: "Preferably one with a hand crank, so you're not dependent on batteries," says Robertory. Make sure it gets NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) radio broadcasts. They contain National Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts, and the other hazard information 24 hours a day. Such radios can be found in many electronic and sporting goods stores.
Flashlights and extra batteries.
Cash: "Have enough cash and coins on hand for one or two weeks, based on your spending habits," says Robertory. "Remember that ATMs and credit-card machines may not have power, and banks will be empty if areas have been evacuated. Also, don't put just $20 bills in the kit, as things like pay phones and laundry machines require change."