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Natural Disaster
Over the course of the year, several countries experienced 20 – 30 natural disasters. These natural disasters occur every year. Imagine the devastation it could create. In the U.S alone, according to the record, the country experienced 22 weather and/or climate change. The climate/weather change includes 7 disasters which are related to tropical storms or landfalling hurricanes.
In the year 2020, there are 416 natural disaster events recorded worldwide. The region of Asia Pacific has the second-highest number of these natural disasters. Some factors why they experienced the most devastation are that the region has a huge size and it is susceptible to natural occurrences.
But what are natural disasters? As the name suggests, they are natural occurrences to the earth which are very catastrophic and might cause fatalities, social environmental disruptions as well as property damages. Examples of natural disaster include, but not limited to;
- Tornadoes
- Floods
- Hurricanes
- Tsunamis
- Volcanic eruptions
- Earthquakes
A natural disaster is like a thief in the night, it may occur unannounced. No one knows when it will pay you a visit. Even the United States Geological Survey (USGS) doesn’t know the exact time of the possible occurrences. But they provide reliable scientific information.
Man-Made Disaster
Other than a natural disaster, there is what we call a human-made or man-made disaster. This disaster is due to negligence, man intent, or human actions as well as the failure of systems made by humans. It’s the total opposite of natural disasters. Man-made disasters include, but not limited to;
- Crime
- Arson
- Terrorism
- War
- Cyberattack
- Burglary
Man-made disasters are crueler. It includes hurting your fellowmen.
There’s a possibility that an earthquake or a hurricane will hit you while you are sleeping or a burglar breaks into your house. That’s why keeping a drawer or nightstand beside your bed might help you to survive. But what are the essentials you need to keep on your nightstand?
In this article, we will help you with what essentials you need to keep on your nightstand for disaster preparedness.
1. Flashlights
When an earthquake or a hurricane occurs, power interruption is inevitable. The flashlight will be your source of light when others are not available especially if the natural disaster happens at night.
2. Extra Batteries or Power Bank
Power interruption as well is inevitable, and sometimes, it even last for up to 24 or 48 hours. You have to keep your flashlight running and the power bank to support you.
3. Cellphone or Mobile Device
Your cellphone is your only way to connect to the outside world as well as to connect to the authorities. Mobile devices are now considered essential to individuals. Not only does it bring entertainment, but it also lets you connect to others.
Do not hesitate to call 911 or any emergency hotlines- as well as the rescue team in times of need. They are the only ones who can help you in your situation. Or if you have the number of your neighbors, call them and ask for help.
4. Fire Extinguisher
As reported by the National Fire Protection Association, more than 370,000 house fires happen in the U.S annually.
A fire extinguisher is your best friend when a fire occurs. Do not use water, especially on electric fire as well as flammable liquid fires because the chance of spreading it is higher. Fire extinguishers are good for Class A fires which include woods, cloths, and paper. Keep a fire extinguisher close to you as much as possible.
5. Guns
Use gun only if necessary. If you can try to negotiate with the criminals (burglars, etc.) do it, especially if one of your loved ones is involved. Do not fight back. Compromising your life is not worth it. Just dial 911 and wait for the authority.
Keep guns in a safe place and within quick reach.
6. Pepper Spray
If you’re not confident in using a gun, use pepper spray instead. This will distract criminals when a home invasion happens and it will help you buy time to make a move.
7. Car Key
When an emergency happens and you have to evacuate ASAP, your car key should always be within reach. Normalize keeping your car keys at night on your nightstand instead of keeping it downstairs- in your kitchen.
8. Your Eyeglasses
If you wear eyeglasses, always keep them on your nightstand so you can reach them easily. It will be very hard to navigate through your house if you have poor eyesight.
Keeping all of these essentials in your nightstand will become more convenient in times of emergency. Do everything to save your life and your loved ones. Either natural disaster or man-made disaster, it’s always important to be prepared. But, other items you should never be without are portable camping folding chairs, they come in handy and are very easy to carry.