Planning a vacation this summer? Whether your plans are for a weekend just hours from home or spending a few weeks in another state or country it is important to include emergency preparedness in your vacation planning.
There are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you are prepared for a disaster, no matter where you are in the world. First – do some research online to learn about the hazards in the area you plan to visit. Second – when you arrive at your destination, find safe locations to go during severe weather and ask about local warning systems. Tornado-prone cities often have outdoor warning sirens. Also, locate a hospital near where you are staying. Here are some additional tips to consider before you head out and while you are on vacation:
Before you leave
• Pack a travel-size emergency supply kit with water, snacks, a first-aid kit, flashlight, small battery-operated radio, extra batteries and an emergency contact card with names and phone numbers.
• Pack extra supplies of critical items, such as prescription medications and baby formula, in case your return is delayed by a disaster.
• Let family and friends know your itinerary and how to reach you.
• Develop a communications plan and make everyone in your traveling group aware of the plan. Make sure everyone has the cell phone numbers of the others in your group. Designate an out-of-area person to contact in case your group is separated during an emergency and unable to place local calls.
• If traveling internationally, register with the U.S. Department of State through a free online service at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows travelers to enter information about upcoming trips abroad so that the Department of State can better assist them in an emergency.
During your trip
• If traveling by car, check the forecast for your entire route before and during your trip. Weather conditions can change drastically, especially if thunderstorms are expected.
• Bring along a travel weather radio, which will automatically switch to the weather radio station closest to your travel area and will alert you to any hazardous weather.
• Become familiar with the names of the counties you are traveling through because hazardous weather warnings are issued by county.
• If you are in a vehicle when a tornado warning has been issued or you see a tornado approaching, seek shelter in a sturdy building until the storm passes. If you're unable to reach a sturdy building, pull over and find a low area, such as a ditch, and take cover there.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency plans in your hotel or place you are staying as soon as you arrive.
If disaster strikes your vacation spot, you can register on the American Red Cross’ "Safe and Well" website at www.safeandwell.org so family and friends will know that you are safe.
More preparedness information is available on the Ready OC website at www.readyoc.org
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