The list of people missing in tornado-ravaged Joplin, Missouri is now down to eight on Wednesday, June 1, according to new reports by CNN.
But in the wake of the single deadliest tornado to hit the U.S. in decades, citizens are reminded that disasters can strike at any moment.
There is a lot of advice on how to prepare for natural disasters and even terrorist attacks ahead of time, starting with the Centers for Disease Control’s website, according to CDC public affair official Von Roebuck.
On its website, the CDC recommends citizens put together a supply kit, develop a family disaster plan and be informed about how to quarantine and isolate when the situation arises.
“One of the first things that we always tell people is to have a preparedness kit at home,” said Patti Thompson, Illinois Emergency Management Agency communications manager. “It doesn’t matter what kind of disaster you’re preparing for—ice storm or severe storm, or even potentially a terrorist attack—because there could be reasons during the disaster that you could be stranded in your home and you might not have power.”
The IEMA recommends basic supplies for the three-day kit, including non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person, per day. Thompson also recommends a battery-operated radio for getting information during a power outage, as well as a weather radio to get weather alerts. A flashlight and extra batteries for all supplies are also recommended.
“For people in the home that have certain needs, such as babies, make sure you have spare diapers, formula and other things to take care of baby,” Thompson said. “For other people with medical conditions plan those supplies too. If a major event occurs, responders may not be able to reach you for some time.”
Thompson said to think of Hurricane Katrina, and how long it took first responders and rescuers to reach some households.
“First responders are overwhelmed,” Thompson said. “They can’t get everywhere. They get to the most severely impacted people first. You need to be able to sustain yourself and your family.”
Thompson recommended more supplies beyond basic staples, including a first aid kit, tools, and copies of important records, financial and insurance documents in case of an evacuation.
“It’s helpful for people to be able to know where shut-off valves are,” Thompson said. “Like the natural gas valve. If there’s a leak, shut that off and make the situation safer there.”
Thompson recommends citizens utilize the IEMA’s check list on its website to get started. She also suggested families make plans for emergencies, including those inside the home, and even meetups outside the home if the family is separated during a disaster.
“Doing this is something that can help give you a little bit more feeling of control when something unexpected happens,” Thompson said. “You know you’re not worried about whether people in your family are going to have food, or be safe, or be able to communicate. It can take a little bit of the stress off what is naturally a stressful situation.”
