How many times have you said "I wish i thought of that!" well someone else may have thought of that along time before you and by having friend and connections that understand what it is you do. Sharing ideas can pay off.
You never expect to have to rebuild or help someone rebuild. As a independent young person or older adult you know the chance of being hit by a hurricane tornado wild fire earthquake is probable and becoming more likely as we have seen in the last few years more natural disasters occur.
Can social media help? Yes it can.
In Haiti we saw how a tweet was able to be seen by friends family and responders to help locate survivors when calls and text failed.
If a group who trains and has a membership is looking to recruit social media is a blessing in disguise if you use it correctly. Always remember not to post personal information. In today age we know someone who saw something on social media. Now if you start to think about it why dont we as volunteer tap into this sort of thing? The best PR you can get is free PR. Social media is the only thing faster then word of mouth. Just remember once its out there someone somewhere can find it even if you take it down. Never post anything on social media youd not want your Grandmother or Boss to see.
Here are a few places to consider using for preparedness or disaster reservist groups.
just a refresher of things you may want to consider picking up over next few months as hurricane season approaches and for the mid west and tornado alley,
1 gallon of water per person per day (and pets) to sustain and remain hydrated for at least 3 days.
Extra water for cooking and cleaning (bathtub- sinks)
tarps (in case a window breaks or such)
Foods high in protien
Comfort foods (varies per person) (mine are peanut butter, gummy bears and thats only because chocolate melts)
If you had to evacuate have you considered using rolling suitcases they make transporting items easier. Local maps, rechargerable batteries for phone and charging cables for phones.
As a person who could be helping others .. .the most important thing is your safety and well being.
So a few things to consider to keep on hand for your safety. . .
Always make sure you have water for yourself
If you burn easy... SUN Screen
Any medicine you use
aspirin or what ever you use for minor headaches and such
Ladies--- Personal Items
hat to protect from sun
Sun Burn gel is a big one for me just in case
Extra socks - if your feet are not happy you wont be.
Protein - Energy and Snacks that help with it are key
Dont forget if you are gone more then one day maybe something you enjoy.. Music , a book. if religious an item like a bible, or rosary beads that you use when in religious times.
While this may not effect everyone its something that could effect a good portion of the United Sates this year.
Hurricanes -
Basic suggestions 72 hrs of water per person or dog and cat. the basic rule of thumb is 1 gallon per day per person. This water is set up for hydration cooking exc. Not cleaning or such. Keeping thing on hand that can be cooked quickly and easily. Ramen Noodles.. are they the best gourmet food No. Will you survive on them. Yes.
I try to keep at least 2 cases of water on hand. As well as the gallon per person. I keep basic medical supplies on hand. As well as a kennel for my pet. SIzed for her and leash and collar so that she will be able to be walked and travel quickly. I keep her medication as she does have some supplied just as i would family members. Because if like me.. My dog is family is yours? I also keep a USB thumb drive with photo copies of all pertinent information and photos of valuables that may be destroyed in the event of an emergency.
2015 Hurricane Names
Hurricane Katrina, a retired hurricane name from 2005. NOAA.
Günay Mutlu/
Ana
Bill Claudette Danny Erika Fred Grace Henri Ida Joaquin Kate Larry Mindy Nicholas Odette Peter Rose Sam Teresa Victor Wanda