Mauie Flores

Last Friday, March 11, 2011, I spent the afternoon until late evening sitting on the couch and watching the news about the earthquake and tsunami that happened in Japan. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw images of homes and other structures being swallowed by the enormous amount of seawater that came inland because of the tsunami. My eyes were also on my computer screen as a chatted with an aunt who is in Japan. Thankfully, although a bit shaken and emotional, she's safe as well as my other aunts who are working over there.

Image source here.

Adding to my state of shock were the news advisories telling the public to get ready for the tsunami that will hit the eastern part of the Philippines. Thank goodness, it did not do much damage to any of the 19 provinces that were supposed to be hit by the waves from the Pacific Ocean. After having experienced Ondoy, who can blame me for being so paranoid? I immediately thought about preparing for the waves of water that was supposed to come.

The American Red Cross advises the general public to prepare these 6 disaster must-haves:

• Water - 1 gal./person/day.
• Food - Non-perishable; should also include pet food if you have pets.
• First-aid kit - Always keep one in your home and another one in your car.
• Clothing and beddings - Complete change of clothing per person. Should also include rain gear and protection from the sun.
• Tools and emergency supplies
• Special items - Essentials for infants or the senior members of the family. These will also include toys or games for kids.

All of these items should last for at least three days. They should also be kept in sturdy, water-proof containers.

Experts also suggest having a disaster plan for the family. Honestly, I still haven't devised one. All this step entails is having 2 meeting places just in case we get separated at the height of a disaster. These 2 places should either be:

1. A safe distance away from home; or,
2. A safe place outside the neighborhood just in case a family member can't get home.

I hope you also find this post helpful. We will never know when a disaster will strike so it's best to be always prepared.


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