Disaster Preparedness Tips

Hello there. If a hurricane or earthquake struck tomorrow would you and your family be ready? Where would you go if you were forced to leave your home? What would you bring with you? If these questions have not crossed your mind before, now is a good time to start thinking about them.

By preparing in advance for a disaster you can cut back on the confusion and panic that you might face during the event. The first thing that you must do is identify what types of disasters you are likely to face. In Grenada, regardless of where you live, there is the risk of hurricanes and earthquakes. Depending upon where your home is located, you may also be at risk for floods, tsunamis, mud- and landslides, fires and volcanic activity. You should learn how to prepare for and respond to each of these events. You can do so by contacting NaDMA or the Grenada Red Cross Society for further information.

Once you are aware of the risks, you should meet with your family to discuss the information you have gathered. In case of an emergency, pick two places for your family to meet - one should be right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire or earthquake. The other should be outside of your neighborhood in case you cannot return home. This could be the home of a family member or close friend. Every member of your family should know this person’s address and telephone number. You should use this person as your emergency contact. All family members should call this person and tell them where they are in case they cannot return home or make it to the meeting place.

You should conduct emergency evacuation drills with your family at least once a year.  Always remember to review your plan at least every 6 months.  Everyone should be comfortable with the plan and know what to do in an emergency.