In today's world there are two primary issues that should be on everyone's consciousness. That is surviving man-made or natural disasters. Article after article continue to hammer the point that most Americans are still not prepared to respond to and survive a disaster. FEMA as well as Homeland Security has made many efforts to promote this level of awareness, however many still do not subscribe.

Now how does the average citizen prepare for the worst case scenario? That being as an example a tornado or flood. What about the release of a toxic agent from a railroad accident. These scenarios are real life examples of disasters unfolding. How do we decide when a situation is an emergency and when it is a disaster? The electricity going out in your neighborhood for five days, and no one is injured is an emergency. Five tornados descending on your neighborhood and destroying a five square mile area, rupturing gas lines and killing two hundred people is a disaster.

There are many web sites that offer list of equipment to have in the event of an emergency as well as where to purchase it. I believe that no amount of supplies and equipment is going to be of value if you are unable to get to it. In addition all family members must practice a basic plan and emergency exists must be easily accessible. All too often in the case of fire people are trapped inside because of bars on the windows or deadbolt door locks and no keys.

Due to the unpredictable nature of a disaster it is impossible to know 100% of what you will need to survive or how long. One thing is for certain you will need food, water, possibly medical supplies, and in a best case scenario a shelter. If at all possible plan for at least seven days worth of food and supplies. One of my sons who was trapped on Xavier University campus in New Orleans, LA during hurricane Katrina told me that at one point all they received was one hot dog and a bottle of water per day.

During the flood of 1993 in Missouri I witnessed the worst and best in people.It was quite sad to witness criminals using boats to commit crimes such as breaking into peoples homes.I also saw first hand eveyday citizens loading sand bags as well as providing shelter to neighbors who needed it.

Organizations such as the Citizens Corps and Community Emergency Response Teams are a true asset.In times of need we must stand together and be prepared for the long haul.

In the event of certain natural disasters such as an earthquake the roads may be impassable and Police, Firefighters, and Emergency Medical personnel may be unable to get to your location. In addition many persons employed in public safety positions will abandon their duty until they have established that their own families are secure.

For more information on how to prepare your family or organization for an emergency or disaster go to www.allhazemer.com