As an EMS provider why should I think about personal and family preparedness during emergencies or disasters?
We all like to think that we are protecting ourselves and our families and that disasters and emergencies will never happen to us. But they do. So the question becomes are we really prepared. Emergencies and disasters can happen at any time. As EMTs, we all work though those small emergencies everyday; but what if something bigger happened? How would you and your family fair? Even if your family is not directly impacted by the event, they may be impacted by contaminated water and interrupted food supply or the collapse of social structures like schools, work, community, etc. Preparation reduces fear, confusion, and loss. It can also help your family if you have to leave them during the disaster to serve in your role as EMS provider. You and your family need a disaster plan that includes emergency meeting places, emergency contacts, and planning for special needs and pets. You’ll also need to develop a disaster kit for your family that includes water, food, and supplies for up to five d
