Whether it’s a natural disaster, like a hurricane, or it’s a hazardous material spill, a disease outbreak, or any kind of disaster that may befall us, it’s a good idea to be as prepared as you can be. These articles address all the different types of disasters that we may encounter and give great tips on preparedness. For more details on how to prepare for any kind of disaster, check out the U.S. Government site Ready.gov.
Researchers studying the damage from Hurricane Andrew in 1992 in Florida discovered that a home’s roof is one of four weak points where winds can enter and potentially destroy a home from the inside out. It’s possible to bring in a roofing expert to strengthen your roof before the next storm arrives. How wind damages...
Hurricane safety is an important topic if you live anywhere within the potential path of a hurricane, particularly if you live near the coast, where the most significant damages from these powerful storms are felt. Perhaps the most important aspect of hurricane safety is preparation. Fortunately, these storms do not strike without notice, like tornadoes...
A tsunami is a unique kind of natural disaster that has the potential to devastate coastal areas. Typically caused by earthquakes, tsunamis are defined as large ocean waves that dissipate large surges of water to coastlines. Keep reading to review basic tsunami information, as well as tips for surviving a tsunami. How Tsunamis Form Tsunamis...
Radiation emergencies are some of the most difficult to deal with, especially if you are unsure of the source or extent of the danger the radiation poses. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) responds to two main types of radiation: intentional radiation such as that caused by terrorists and unintentional or unplanned radiation. To understand...
An earthquake occurs when the breaking and shifting of subterranean rock causes the earth to shake suddenly and rapidly. While many people think that earthquakes are a West-coast phenomenon, there are actually 45 states and territories in the U.S. that are at moderate to high risk for experiencing this natural disaster. Unfortunately, it is impossible...
Earthquakes affect thousands of people each year and can cause massive amounts of damage to both your city and home. These natural disasters can also knock out power lines and leave you with no electricity or running water for several days at a time, which is why earthquake kits can be extremely useful. Fortunately, earthquake...
One of the most frustrating—and dangerous—aspects of dealing with the aftermath of extensive water damage from a hurricane or flood is the growth of mold that can contaminate your home and create severe health hazards. Statistics show that mold can begin growing on building materials such as plywood in as few as 48 hours after...
Creating an emergency plan is an important step toward smart preparedness for you and your family. Although no one plans for disaster, it’s important to be ready in case you find yourself in the middle of circumstances where you need to act fast. A good disaster plan will take into account a variety of different...
The top 10 natural disasters to devastate the United States have accounted for thousands of deaths. Keep reading to take a look at the top 10 natural disasters in U.S. history based on total fatalities. 10. 1995 Chicago Heat Wave – 739 Deaths Extreme heat isn’t typically viewed as a disaster threat, but the 1995...
If a disaster strikes your community, you may not have access to necessities like food, water, or electricity for several days. As a result, it is a good idea to take some measures to build up a kit of survival supplies that can help tide you and your family over until necessary services are restored....