It is a common misconception that when you are faced with an emergency situation, the adrenaline will take over and you will automatically know what to do. A good thought, but very often not true. Even if the adrenaline starts to flow, it is more likely to lead to panic. It is much better to KNOW what to do in an emergency situation because of planning, preparation, and practice. Some things that may seem obvious to us when we have a clear mind may not occur if the situation is serious.
Tornado Truths-
Myth: Opening the windows will reduce air pressure.
Reality: There is no evidence for this, but stopping to open windows may prevent you from getting to safety in time.
Myth: Stand under a door frame to protect against falling debris.
Reality: Go to the side or corner of a basement or a first-floor interior room opposite the direction of approach of the tornado, or a storm cellar, if available.
Myth: It is safer to be under an overpass.
Reality: The flyover causes a tunnel effect that increases the wind. There is also the danger of it collapsing.
Myth: It is safe to go out during the eye of the storm.
Reality: Stay in your safe place during the eye of the storm, as it can pass very quickly and catch you off guard.
Thunderstorm Thoughts –Myth: During a thunderstorm, lie down on the ground so that you are as low as possible.
Reality: Find the lowest landing area, get down and protect your head.
Myth: It is best to stay in your mobile home during a storm.
Reality: If it is a violent storm, seek shelter in a more secure building. If you can’t do it, get out and lie in a ditch or depression away from the mobile home and any vehicles.
Myth: Animals have a natural self-preservation instinct and can fend for themselves in an emergency.
Reality: Most pets haven’t really learned to fend for themselves. Although it is important to save your family first, the safety of your pet must also be considered. Most pets left behind do not survive.
Myth: Farm animals must be kept safely enclosed within a building during a violent storm.
Reality: It may be better to leave cattle unprotected so they are not stranded if the building collapses.
Earthquake Evidence –
Myth: During an earthquake, get under a table or desk and hold on to one leg of the table/desk.
Reality: Since even heavy furniture can shift during an earthquake, it’s best to sit near a wall away from windows, furniture, or anything that could fall on you.
Myth: It’s okay to leave your safe place after the initial quake is over.
Fact: Stay in place until the shaking has completely passed, including aftershocks.
Myth: Use the elevator to get out of the building more quickly during an emergency.
Reality: Use the stairs. The elevator is likely to stop working trapping you inside.
Myth: If you are outside, take cover near a larger object for protection.
D.quality: Stay away from buildings, trees, power lines, etc. Get down, cover your head and close your eyes.
Fire data –
Myth: Dish towels work well when handling hot pots and pans.
Reality: Always use oven mitts. Items like tea towels are generally highly flammable and can easily be dragged across a hot surface and catch fire.
Myth: If a pot catches fire, quickly place it under running water.
Reality: Do not try to move the pot. Put a lid on it and turn off the stove.
Myth: If clothing catches fire, immediately stand under running water, such as a shower.
Fact: STOP, DROP AND ROLL to put out the flames. Running to the nearest shower will cause the flames to spread.
Myth: If a fire starts in your home, call the fire department immediately.
R.reality: Get out and stay out. Call the fire department from outside.
Hike/Camping Suggestions –
Myth: Stay where you are if you get lost and they will find you.
Reality: It’s a good idea to stay put, but it’s better to bring some protection in the form of a whistle whenever you go hiking. It will make it easier for people to find you and will help convince wild animals to stay away.
Myth: In an organized camping area, wildlife is used to humans and is therefore friendly.
Reality: It is never safe to approach or feed wildlife. Use a flashlight at night to warn them to stay away.
Myth: When you come across a wild animal, get away as fast as possible.
Reality: Keep calm and walk away slowly; no sudden movements.
Myth: Bury the garbage to prevent wild animals from invading your camp.
Reality: Animals have a much better sense of smell than humans. Keep your campsite clean and place all trash in animal-proof containers.
Myth: Keeping a fire going at night will discourage unwanted animals from entering your camp.
Reality: Although this may be true, it will likely burn your camp to the ground. Put out all campfires (and lanterns) before going to sleep.
Myth: You are safe from too much sun during a cloudy day.
Reality: Bring sunscreen and sunglasses no matter what the weather. It’s easy to burn and strain your eyes even when it’s cloudy.
Be prepared – before disaster strikes!
