As a community service, Somerset Region Business Alliance has assembled several resources to help you with your disaster planning.
Research shows that during most disasters there will be a delay before outside help arrives. At first, self-help is essential. It may save your life or the lives of your loved ones if you invest some time in developing a few survival skills and resources.
The key to survival in any disaster situation is planning and preparedness, surviving a disaster is more than just luck. Being physically and mentally prepared to act early and decisively is critical.
However, no amount of planning can prepare you for every eventuality, so be prepared to think outside the box.
It's important to be aware that if the emergency services cannot to get to you, you may be on your own for several hours if not days. Be prepared.
Don't be afraid to disregard information supplied by the authorities unless you know that it is accurate, up do date and based on local knowledge. A person in a call centre in Brisbane or a police officer in Lowood may not know what is happening in your street. Use you own eyes and ears, if flood water or fire is coming in your direction, it's time to implement your evacuation plan.
Whilst planning for personal survival is the most important, if you operate a business, it's also vital to have a business disaster plan so you can get your business back up and running with a minimum of down time.
And don't forget to include your pets and livestock in your disaster plan as well. If you have animals enclosed in fields that may be in danger and which can't be evacuated, be sure to cut the fences so they have a chance to escape.
