Many of us have never experienced a serious emergency, but that doesn't mean we never will. A feeling of invincibility may prevent people from preparing for the unexpected; an established emergency response plan could determine whether or not everyone survives the disaster. Whether you are part of a household or you work for a government agency, creating an emergency response plan is vital to promote safety and increase the odds of survival.
Function
Emergency response plans are a set of directions and cautionary advice to help people weather a disastrous event and its aftermath. At the national, state, county, and community levels of the U.S. government, these plans are established in advance to protect residents from emergencies such as natural disasters, chemical biohazards, and acts of violence.
Families are strongly advised to create their own response plan, in the event of weather disasters, fire, or other emergencies. The plan should include step-by-step instructions on respond to each crisis, and every family member should be familiar with the plan. For instance, if there is a fire, the family should pick a spot outside to gather, so that everyone in the home can be accounted for.
Types
In addition to government and family emergency response plans, preparedness strategies are also put in place by businesses and watchdog organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Like government plans, business or organizational response plans are designed to prepare organizations for certain types of emergencies, so they can respond swiftly during a disaster and restore order as soon as possible.
Different plans will be needed for different emergencies. For example, during most natural disasters, people are urged to vacate their homes and retreat to a protective shelter. But during a harmful virus outbreak, people might be urged to stay in their homes or places of work.
Features
The majority of government-approved emergency response plans encourages citizens to become familiar with local resources, in order to know where to find help. Many plans include evacuation and relocation instructions to a safer area, in the event of an approaching hurricane, wildfire, or flood.
Emergency response plans often include safety kits---groups of supplies to help households or organizations survive a potential catastrophe. Basic kits generally include first-aid supplies, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, and a food and water supply to last three to five days. For more detailed lists of safety kit supplies, see the Resources section below.
Benefits
Prompt, well-prepared governmental or organizational response plans can save thousands of lives when an emergency happens. These strategies can also help ensure a quicker recovery and restoration of damaged locations.
Family or individual emergency response plans can equip people with the tools to get through a natural disaster or virus outbreak. Preparedness and familiarity with the plan could help ensure that there are fewer victims, and will give people the peace of mind that they'll be able to cope during a crisis.
Expert Insight
The Centers for Disease Control remind everyone that prevention is the best line of defense against numerous health and safety dangers. Creating an emergency response plan before an emergency occurs has been shown to help people safely survive such hazards.
Additionally, the CDC encourages people to maintain their mental health by acknowledging and preparing for the emotions they may feel during a catastrophe. The more prepared you are for an emergency, the better you are able to respond, and the faster you can bounce back from feelings of stress and fear.
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