Introduction
Preparedness for natural anomalies is essential for residents of hazardous states prone to frequent emergencies. A disaster like a tornado has wide characteristics for the Midwestern and Southern states, but it has a low degree of risk for Southern California. At the same time, it is impossible to completely deny the possibility of its occurrence, which requires a study of this natural hazard and an assessment of the degree of preparedness for it.
Characteristics of Tornado
First of all, it is worth clearly understanding what a tornado is. It is defined as a “narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of the thunderstorm to the ground” (Green Shoot Media, 2021, para. 2). Its main danger is the prolonged destruction of everything it touches.
Moreover, another characteristic is that it cannot be clearly predicted and occurs unexpectedly. The main problem is that “meteorologists can give notices based on atmospheric conditions, but whether a tornado will develop and touch the ground cannot be foreseen” (Green Shoot Media, 2021, para. 2). Therefore, when a tornado appears, individuals may face severe conditions in which they can be unexpectedly disconnected from all basic communications like water and electricity.
Preparedness to Tornado
First, it is necessary to have a safe place where individuals can hide during a natural disaster. It is recommended to have a disaster survival kit that will have “tornado-specific safety supplies, a whistle, flashlights, extra batteries, and a portable weather radio” (Gustin, 2020, p. 51). Moreover, it is vital to have a first aid kit, a backup power source such as an electricity generator, and a supply of water and food for the first 48 or 72 hours after the disaster.
The next aspect is to follow the recommendations of emergency management authorities. The most significant are the Federal Emergency Management Agency and local government (Choi & Wehde, 2020). These recommendations should be followed by all residents of territories where there is a risk of tornadoes.
How Would You Prepare for the Following Situation?
First of all, I will make sure that all my family members are aware of the situation. Then, my next step will be to turn off all electricity in the house to limit the possibility of damage to the place of residence and those who may be in it. After that, I will take my 72-hour-to-go bag, which contains food and items prepared for the first days in the shelter. If possible, I will also bring the necessary identification documents with me.
The basement is the safest place in my house in case of a tornado, so the next step would be to move the whole family there. This should be done as soon as possible to prevent harm to health. If I have access to the Internet, I will follow the recommendations of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and local government. However, if this is not possible, listening to the radio or having communication sources to receive regular updates and advice on experiencing the situation is possible.
How Prepared Are You in the Event of a Disaster?
Unfortunately, I cannot say I am fully prepared for the disaster. However, I have followed several recommendations when there is a danger of a tornado. The main reason I have a low alert level is that tornadoes are not a primary danger in Southern California and occur exceptionally rarely. At the same time, I realize this is not an excuse for influence, so I aim to change the situation.
I have a 72-hour-go bag containing items that may be needed first. It includes components such as water and nutrition, primarily canned goods. I also have a generator to help maintain electricity during a power outage. It may also be utilized to cook some grilled foods in the basement. The main problem is the lack of copies of some documents, 3-day supplies included with emergency roadside equipment, flashlights, extra batteries, signal flares, whistles, and work gloves.
Reflection and Conclusion
Taking this class allowed me to learn more about emergencies and become more prepared for them. Hence, I plan to acquire new emergency items such as a flashlight, additional medicines for the first aid kit, extra batteries, a signal flare, and a whistle. In addition, I aim to take additional training or courses to know how to act better in various natural disasters. The knowledge I gained was also valuable, as I shared it with friends and family. This provided an opportunity to increase their awareness and interest in better disaster preparation. Taking this course significantly contributes to my profession as a future nurse, as I can more effectively help people in an emergency.
References
Choi, J., & Wehde, W. (2020). Trust in emergency management authorities and individual emergency preparedness for tornadoes. Risk, Hazards & Crisis in Public Policy, 11(1), 12-34. Web.
Green Shoot Media. (2021). Know what to do if the rare tornado should touch down in Southern California. Noozhawk. Web.
Gustin, J. (2020). Tornado preparedness. Professional Safety, 65(2), 51-52. Web.