In case of a disaster, ‘grab it and go’
Natural disasters have no friends or foes, with reports indicating that emerging economies in Asia, including India, are among the top 10 countries facing the greatest financial risk from natural disasters.
The most recent example, of floods in Chennai, has also focussed attention on India and its share of major disasters. These include the floods in Kashmir (2014) and Uttarakhand (2013), the Latur earthquake (1993) and the Tsunami (2004).
“These are obvious examples that [show how] in times of crises, [a] little preparedness can go [a] long way in helping oneself and its concerns. In [the] golden hour, it’s the individual first who always step[s] in instantly when disasters strike. You have to remember that [the] extent of damage is too large and it may take some reasonable time [before] that help reaches to you. The golden rule is to be prepared. Ensure safety of self, family and then neighbours. Being prepared also guards you against extensive trauma and emotional stress which is very common when disaster strikes,” explains Anil Shekhawat, disaster management professional from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
“The extent of ill-preparedness in our country is such that most of us don’t even have a first-aid box at home,” he adds.
Meanwhile, the Chennai floods, which caught the city as well as the government off-guard, has now led to more conversations about the need for better disaster preparedness. An important step is to have a “go bag” with essentials to help people fend for themselves.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority, an emergency kit should have these essentials — a first-aid kit, a battery-operated torch, essential medicines, important documents, dry food items, water, money, cash, a set of thick ropes, candles and matches, and shoes.
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