September 8, 2005

Purdue experts encourage disaster preparedness

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - When disasters strike, they serve as grim reminders of the importance of preparedness. September is National Preparedness Month and a time for individuals to think about and prepare for disasters that are most likely to affect them, says a Purdue University disaster specialist.

"Unlike an emergency, a disaster overwhelms a community's ability to respond," said Steve Cain, Purdue Extension disaster specialist. "A disaster as large as Hurricane Katrina shows us that even our nation struggled to respond when the disaster was of massive proportions."

Individuals and families should create a family disaster plan so that each person knows what to do, where to go and how to contact loved ones, according to the American Red Cross.

"At this time of year, the next most likely disasters Hoosiers face are winter storms and floods," Cain said.

There are several actions families can take to prepare for winter storms and flooding. The first is to assemble a disaster supply kit. This kit should include drinking water; medications; canned and no-cook food; a non-electric can opener; first aid kit; battery-powered radio; and a flashlight and extra batteries that are easily accessible, even in the dark. For a typical Indiana storm, there should be enough supplies to last for three days, and perishable items should be rotated.

"If you plan a food supply kit appropriately, you can use these food items in meals as you rotate them according to their food safety date," Cain said.

During threatening weather, vehicles should be fueled and in good repair. Winterize the car by checking its battery, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashers, exhaust, heater, brakes, defroster and tires. Ensure that the vehicle has adequate antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and oil, and continue checking these levels throughout the season.

Winterize the house and any other structure that would serve as shelter for family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. Also clear rain gutters, repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.

More disaster preparedness information is available on the Purdue Extension Web site.

In addition to making a kit and having a plan, volunteers are essential during an emergency.

Pam Bright, director of public information for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security said, "We are promoting the CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program, which is a volunteer organization where citizens are trained to assist with emergencies."

For more information about CERT and how to get involved, go online.

This is the second annual National Preparedness Month, which is being co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the American Red Cross. Purdue University, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the American Red Cross have teamed up to increase public awareness about the importance of preparing for emergencies and to encourage individuals to take action.

Writer: Julie Douglas, (765) 4964472, douglajk@purdue.edu

Sources: Steve Cain, (765) 4948410, cain@purdue.edu

Pam Bright, (317) 232-6632, pbright@dhs.IN.gov

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Beth Forbes, forbes@purdue.edu
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