Emergency Preparedness for Military Personnel

In this unpredictable world unexpected emergency can strike any time. We should be prepared to withstand any unforeseen situation at all times.

When we talk about special case of military personnel, they operate in special and frequently dangerous circumstances. Emergency readiness thus becomes essential.

To handle a wide range of scenarios, from natural disasters to combat situations, military personnel need to be well-prepared.

Emergency preparedness for military personnel necessitates implementation of disaster preparedness strategies ensuring their safety and effectiveness.

Prepare for Emergencies in Three Simple Steps: Get a Kit, Make a Plan, Be Informed

Get a Kit

Prepare for emergencies by assembling a collection of essential supplies that can sustain you and your family until the crisis passes.

Here’s how:

• Assemble Emergency Kits: Ensure you have kits at home, in your car, and at work, each stocked with enough supplies for at least three days.

• Consider Unique Needs: Tailor your kits to the specific needs of your family and pets, including food, water, medicines, and important documents.

• Regular Updates: Check and update your kits regularly to ensure they remain effective.

Basic Items for a Home Emergency Kit

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days

• Food: Nonperishable items for three days

• Infant Supplies: Formula and diapers

• Pet Supplies: Food, water, and documents

• Tools: Manual can opener, flashlight, NOAA weather radio, battery-powered phone charger, and extra batteries

• First Aid: Kit with dust masks, disinfectant, and prescription medications

• Sanitation: Moist towelettes, disinfectant, garbage bags

• Important Documents: Personal, financial, and insurance papers

• Emergency Plan: Your family emergency plan, local maps, and command reporting information

Additional Items for Those Stationed Abroad

Passports, birth certificates, local currency, translation cards, electrical converters

Other Useful Items: Fire extinguisher, tools for turning off utilities, waterproof matches, disposable plates and utensils, coats, rain gear, sleeping bags, weather-appropriate clothing, and activities for children For thorough checklists and additional information, visit the Ready Campaign website at www.ready.gov.

Make a Plan

Create and practice a family emergency plan to ensure everyone knows how to respond in various scenarios. Follow these steps:

• Who: Gather input from all family members to cover all possibilities. Choose a contact person outside your immediate area.

• What: Plan for different types of emergencies, considering local hazards and weather patterns.

• Where: Identify where family members might be throughout the day and establish meeting places.

• When: Create your plan immediately and review it annually or whenever there are major changes.

• Why: Having a practiced plan reduces fear and helps your family reunite and respond effectively during emergencies.

Practice Your Plan

• Conduct drills at least twice a year, simulating different emergency scenarios.

• Ensure everyone knows how to access and use the emergency kit and documents.

• Discuss and adjust the plan as needed after each practice.

Be Informed

Understand the hazards that could affect your area and how to respond:

• Identify Hazards: Learn about local risks such as severe weather, industrial accidents, disease outbreaks, and terrorist acts.

• Know Protective Actions: Most emergencies require either evacuation or shelter-in-place. Ensure you understand both strategies and have plans for each.

• Local Systems: Familiarize yourself with local warning systems and evacuation routes.

Resources

The are many online resources that provides fact sheets on various hazards and coping strategies, including biological and chemical threats, natural disasters, and more. Learn about local mass warning systems, evacuation procedures, and shelter options, especially if you live abroad.

Thus, preparing for unexpected emergency doesn’t require a lot of time or effort but can provide peace of mind and keep an emergency from becoming a disaster for your family.