People come together as a community after disasters; it’s not the panic and running away that’s often shown in movies. In fact, it’s the opposite of that panic—people come together in a way that not many other situations foster. That said, there are ways to make it easier on the community when it comes to these disasters. People already know that they should keep supplies and emergency kits nearby, but better yet, cities should educate their citizens on the ways communities can prepare for natural disasters. This can be anything from making sure municipalities can control flood waters to having everyone pitch in and keep sewers clean. Because, sure, people are hard-wired to aid others—but cities can make it easier on them to help. Learn more, below!
Plan Ahead and Understand Common Hazards
The biggest thing a community can do to prepare for a natural disaster is to think to the future. If we think back to those movies we discussed earlier, it makes sense that everyone would scramble and panic. The natural disasters in films are hardly ever known—it happens in a split second. However, in real life, we have technology that helps us see these storms before they happen, or we can look to the past to see when fires, floods, and droughts typically occurred.
When we know what might come, we can plan for it. Before hurricane season begins, communities can plan how to control flood waters, ensure disaster training, and more. Before the time when droughts typically occur, communities can work together to store rainwater and improve irrigation techniques. When local, common hazards are understood, it’s that much easier to plan ahead.
Encourage Family and Neighborhood Plans
In that same realm of planning, it’s important for families and neighborhoods to create disaster plans. Families should ensure they have their own specific disaster plan that keeps the family safe. Once families themselves are taken care of, put plans in place for neighborhoods. As we mentioned, people tend to help others. When families help themselves and then help those around them, everyone is taken care of in the best way.
Train on Basic First Aid and CPR
Another important way communities can prepare for a natural disaster is by offering training on basic First Aid and CPR courses. If cities follow through on the family and neighborhood plans, then there needs to be an emphasis on helping neighbors safely. This means that CPR and First Aid training is essential. Before disaster strikes, make sure people know how to help those around them—it’ll make any potential disasters much less stressful.
