Families Should Create a Hurricane Survival
Plan, PADF Says
‘Active’ hurricane season is predicted for Caribbean, Central America
Washington, D.C, May 31,
2010 – On the eve of what is predicted
to be one of the worst Atlantic hurricane
seasons in years, the Pan American Development
Foundation is urging residents in Central
America and the Caribbean to put together
emergency plans.
“Families need to put
together a plan now,” says John Sanbrailo,
PADF’s executive director. “A few simple steps
will make a difference, possibly even save
lives, when the wind, rain and flooding hits a
community.”
Forecasters anticipate up to
23 named storms this season, with as many as 14
hurricanes, in the Atlantic. Of that, the
region could see up to seven major hurricanes,
which have winds of at least 111 miles per
hour, according to the U.S. National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration.
PADF has
responded to hurricanes, earthquakes and
floods, as well provided humanitarian
assistance, in Latin America and the Caribbean
for nearly 50 years. It works with authorities,
companies and community groups to reduce the
risks of natural disasters. (www.PanAmericanRelief.org)
Since a family may have to evacuate
their home for an extended period of time, an
emergency plan should contain the
following:
- Put all important legal documents (property documents, passports, birth certificates, etc.) into a water-tight container
- Store in a sealed container a 30-day supply of prescription medications
- Create a disaster supply kit, which includes non-perishable food, a flashlight with fresh batteries, matches, a first aid kit and a portable radio
- Coordinate with your family members an escape route and a final safe place to meet, such as a shelter
- Create a plan for the safety of pets and livestock (and be sure they have identification tags)
- Ask your local authorities for their natural disaster plan, including evacuation routes, and which areas of the your community have the greatest risk for flooding and landslides
- Clean all drainage canals of debris and
trim tree branches that may strike your home or
utilities
“While our region is no stranger to the
damages caused by the wind, rain and flooding
of a hurricane, we are surprised how few people
plan for a disaster,” says Sanbrailo. “Many
times, the tools they need to make a plan are
in their homes and community. Please seek them
out.”
When a natural disaster strikes in
Latin America or the Caribbean, PADF accepts
donations from individuals and companies to
help relieve the suffering of the survivors.
Donors are encouraged to call toll-free (877)
572-4484 or to visit www.PanAmericanRelief.org.