Emergency Management reminds folks to 'Be Ready'

  • Published
  • By Rebecca Amber
  • Staff writer
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The recent devastating earthquake in Nepal can serve as a reminder to California residents that the state is prone to earthquakes.

With that said, Edwards Emergency Management is encouraging base personnel and residents to be prepared for emergencies.  

"I think it's important for everyone to start preparing today. Get a kit, make a plan and be prepared," said Kevin Smith, Edwards Emergency Management specialist.

Disasters can come in many forms, both natural and man-made. In California, earthquakes and fires are a big concern. The most important step is knowing what to do when disaster strikes.

In an earthquake, know how to react. If it's starting to shake, don't try to run across the house or run outside. Instead, drop and take cover. In preparing for fire season, Smith encourages people to clear dead vegetation from the perimeter of a home.

In the desert, it's also important to be ready for dust storms, high winds, thunder storms and high heat. Simple actions like tying things down in the yard that can blow away and staying hydrated are crucial in keeping trouble at bay.

"It's important to be protecting yourself against the elements."

For families, it's important to include children in planning for disasters. Children should know who to contact, how to dial 9-1-1 and how to find the emergency supplies. For families with infants and toddlers, having a properly prepared home is the best defense. For instance, securing items like water heaters or bookshelf's to walls can help protect the members of the household.

Purchasing an emergency kit can be a great first step in preparing for disasters. Ensure that the kit is equipped with everything needed for survival, like food, water and medication.

Man-made disasters might include airplane crashes, chemical or biological hazards. Kits designed for those types of emergencies might include blankets or plastic sheets. Edwards prepares for such disasters with programs like shelter-in-place.

Smith noted that personnel accountability is crucial for making sure that everyone is tended to following an emergency.

For additional preparedness tips, visit www.beready.af.mil.