Amid almost unimaginable tragedy and deprivation, the Japanese people are now into the fifth day since a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a 23-foot tsunami that devastated homes, businesses, farm land, and set off the emergency now underway at several of Japan’s nuclear power plants.
Aftershocks and volcanic eruptions as well as snow, freezing temperatures, and lack of water and food complicate an already-bad situation as thousands of bodies wash ashore. Thousands more are being found mangled in a twisted tangle of wood, autos, metal, clothing, mud, and debris as many must wonder how much more they can endure. Electricity is out in some areas while rolling blackouts in others disrupt offices, homes, and trains.
The Japanese are among the most prepared people in the world. As Americans watch the carnage, some wonder how prepared we would be in a disaster. Reports say only ten percent of the population is ready even though natural disasters occur throughout America on a regular basis. It could be hours or days before help arrives. An example is the New Orleans disaster when Hurricane Katrina devastated much of the city.
The U.S. government has suggestions for some basic emergency items:
– Battery-powered or hand crank radio. NOAA weather radio. Batteries.
– Flashlight and batteries.
– First aid kit that should include sterile gloves, sterile dressings, cleansing agent/soap, antibiotic towelettes, antibiotic ointment, burn ointment, eye wash solution, thermometer, and prescription medications.
– Whistle to signal for help.
– Dust mask, plastic sheeting, duct tape.
– Moist towelettes, garbage bags (personal sanitation).
– Wrench or pliers (used to turn off utilities).
– Can opener
– Local maps
– Cell phone (chargers, inverter, or solar charger).
Other supplies suggested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) include scissors, tweezers, petroleum jelly, aspirin or nonaspirin pain reliever, anti-diarrhea medication, antiacid, and lexative. Make a plan for your family. Have a place to meet and a contact number, possibly an out-of-town contact in the event local lines are jammed, and be sure every member of your family knows that information.
If a 9.0 earthquake or terrorist attack or other disaster happened here, would we be prepared? Perhaps Japan has offered a wake-up call for Americans.
