National Preparedness Month is recognized in September every year. The 2018 theme is “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.” Each community across the country is susceptible to its own unique types of disasters and emergencies. Georgia has a history of hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, wildfires, and ice storms. Fortunately, there are key steps that everyone can take to be better prepared.
The time to prepare for a disaster is BEFORE it strikes.
- Know how to shut off utilities. Natural gas leaks and explosions are responsible for a significant number of fires following disasters. All household members should know how to shut off natural gas. Electrical sparks have the potential of igniting natural gas if it is leaking so know where your electrical shutoff is located. Always shut off all the individual circuits before shutting off the main circuit. During a disaster, cracked lines may pollute the water supply to your house. It is wise to shut off your water at the main house valve until you hear from the authorities that the water is safe.
- Be prepared for a power outage. Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home. Plan for batteries, flashlights, battery or solar powered phone chargers, a battery or hand-crank radio, and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out. Know how to manually release your garage door. Have enough nonperishable food and water on hand to cover all household members for 72 hours. You can build a ready kit with these recommended items.
- Have a communication plan in place. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes. Make sure all household members know where to go and how to reconnect with each other after a natural or man-made disaster. Choose two places to connect, one right outside your home in the case of a sudden emergency and one place outside of your neighborhood in case you cannot return home.
Is your business ready?
Use these tips to make sure you are prepared to get “back to business” after an emergency.
We are not in the business of transactions; we are in the business of relationships. Let us know how we can help your home or business be prepared in the case of an emergency. Locally owned and operated, Northside Tool Rental has been servicing the Atlanta area since 1953. You can rely on us for real service.