Flooding and you

Two weeks ago I posted on a FEMA booklet that you could download on being prepared for natural disasters and such. I hope that I did not come off as fear mongering, but the news makes me want to follow up on the issue.

News?

Yep. Specifically the issue of flooding in Louisiana. According to this post from the American Red Cross there are now 65 Tennessee volunteers down there doing what they can to help the people that have been displaced due to rising waters.

I said then “On a personal note, many people, including myself, have a 72 hour bag ready. This has some basic dry food (granola bars are so good), a change of clothing, some bottled water and other basic items”. Right now there are a lot of homeless people down there in shelters with only the clothes on their back.

Now, while the news is live with images of the flood waters, would be a good time to take a moment to assemble a bag with a few changes of clothes, to make up a list of your families medication needs, and anything else that could help make a situation like this more manageable.

The American Red Cross has a list for a possible 72 hour bag that you might want to look at for ideas. I, and they, want you to be safe.

The American Red Cross has a whole section for classes they offer for those that would like to learn First Aid, CPR, and AED courses…What the heck is an AED course. I’ll admit that I had to look it up.

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, at any time. With Red Cross AED and CPR training, you can learn when – and how – to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). Our AED courses are developed and taught by experts with decades of combined experience – and deliver simple-to-use techniques and information that can help you save a life. Training is available via our award-winning online classes, in person at more than 550 locations across the United States, and through our best-in-class blended Simulation Learning. All Red Cross AED, CPR and First-Aid Certification classes include a free digital certificate, valid for 2 years, plus free access to digital learning materials and online refresher courses.

Cool. The AED kits are becoming common enough that courses are being offered. That is pretty cool in my opinion.

If you have kids, you can get them trained in Babysitting and Caregiving courses, or have someone that watches your children take the courses for your peace of mind.

The Red Cross offers a lot of help to people, but the best help is to help yourself by doing a few small things to make tumultuous events less so. Take a bit of time and assemble a few sets of clothes for your family and know that they are always there in case of an emergency.

The Red Cross is a resource you might wish to look into for your families sake.