We need to get serious about disaster preparedness. What does that entail? Disaster preparedness refers to measures taken to prepare for and reduce the effects of disasters. That is, to predict and, where possible, prevent disasters, mitigate their impact on vulnerable populations, and respond to and effectively cope with their consequences.
It’s the conversation that no one wants to have: how to prepare for a disaster. It could be a fire, flood, a shooting, a break-in, etc. All of these things constitute a disaster in one form or another. They have all affected the lives of someone we know and yet, we tend to push the possibility that they could happen to any of us, at any time, to the back of our minds.
Take, for example, the recent fire in Berbice that killed a 94-year-old man and other fires that claimed the lives of two lads earlier in the month – one at Sophia and the other at Enmore. But the most tragic is back in May 2023 when 20 children including a 5-year-old perished when the Madia dormitory went up in flames.
This might have been prevented. In the wake of these tragedies, we need to take stock. Were there appointed and identified fire exits? Was there an emergency procedure in place? Was it customary to conduct fire drills? Was there an identified muster point? Was the building overcrowded? There are many questions to be answered, and we have not even considered the firefighters’ response.
The point is: we fail to prepare for such eventualities since we are taken up with ‘more important’ issues. “Who really has the time anyway?” Before a fire erupts, contingency plans must be mapped out for efficient response and for survival.
Fire is, by no means, the only disaster that can strike at a moment’s notice. There is also the increasingly rampant home invasion-type robberies. This too can be considered a disaster and yes, we do need to prepare for this. There is an epidemic of home invasions sweeping this country and no one is addressing the matter of preparedness.
Let us face the harsh reality, criminals not only target businesses but look elsewhere to perpetrate their crimes and sadly they, see people’s homes and residences as much easier and less risky targets.
Home invasions are among the most insidious of crimes, shattering the sense of safety and security for children and families for many years after the crime, often for a lifetime. With the rise in these types of crimes, it’s important to learn what persons can do to safeguard their home and family. It is crucial that we “burglar-proof” our homes as best as we can. Reinforced doors, bars on our windows, guard dogs and, in some cases, if it is affordable, a security service.
However, all the steel bars, bulldogs, and minefields in the world cannot keep the unwanted out if they are not used. A few personal measures can make a world of difference. This is where our disaster preparedness comes in.
For example, persons should at least look through a peephole or out the window before answering their door. Many home invaders wait until someone opens the door a crack, then they kick it in and push their way into the home. If this happens, all your security measures would have gone to waste.
Be wary of uninvited solicitors, “repair men”, utility representatives, or any unfamiliar individuals. Always call and confirm before you open the door. Keep a phone nearby, of course – most of us own cell phones so this is not an issue. You may need it on hand at a moment’s notice to call the Police.
Most importantly, persons should have a plan that their entire family understands. In the event of an attack, they should be able to relay a password that lets people know what is happening. Then the rest of the plan should kick into action. This plan should involve all family members. The main objective should be to get the family to a safe area and to defend that area.
Defending against a home invasion, or any disaster, is no easy task. But if people are prepared, they can prevent or survive any attack. Have that talk today. Make your disaster plan.
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