Key to your survival may be practice, but don't wait 'til a storm hits

Adobe Flash player 9 is required to view this video
Get Adobe Flash player

Natural disasters are often unpredictable, and their effects often not fully realized until its too late. But you can always get at least one step ahead by having a plan.

First, you need to know what types of disasters would most likely impact you. Most Kansans are familiar with hazards from severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.

And don't forget the power of winter weather and damaging ice storms.

Then, you should meet with your family or co-workers to discuss where you should go to stay safe from these disasters. Make sure you know where to go should one of these dangers force you outside, like a fire. You should also make one of your friends a "check-in" contact for each of your family members to call. This way you know who is okay, and who might not be.

Make sure you have a disaster kit prepared too. This kit should include at least three-day supply of water for everyone in your family, one change of clothing for everyone, blankets or sleeping bags, a first aid kit with a supply of prescription medications and a flashlight with extra batteries; also, it's good to have a NOAA weather radio, with extra batteries for that too.

Also, don't forget the dangers of traveling on Kansas roads during bad weather. So make sure you have a kit here too. Don't forget a shovel and bright colored cloth to tie on your antenna.

And remember, a plan can end up being useless if you don't practice it.


Comments

Note: ktka.com does not necessarily condone the comments here, nor vouch for the factual claims made therein. Nor do we review every post.

Sep. 4, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)charliebryan (anonymous)

And if you want to get involved in disaster volunteerism, consider being trained for your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) or joining your local Medical Reserve Corps.

Post a comment

(Requires free registration.)

Username:
Password: (Forgotten your password?)

Comment:

Advertisement

Keep an eye on Topeka's weather with the 49 ABC News Sky Cam.

On the air

See what's on KTKA 49 ABC on our online TV schedule here.

Friday's Prime Time --

  • 7 p.m. - "Wife Swap"
  • 8 p.m. - "Supernanny"
  • 9 p.m. - "ABC's 20/20"

  • Don't forget to vote for Norma Grubb for Good Morning America Weekend's "Best Slice Challenge"!
  • Go farther on less. Check out Kansasgasprices.com.
  • With cold and flu season looming, prepare yourself with information at www.ktka.com/flu.
  • If you are planning to send holiday gifts overseas, the U.S. Postal Service has listed their deadlines for on-time delivery. Check them out here.

Online chats

Miracle on Kansas Avenue

Once again, KTKA is a proud sponsor of the Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade, which will take place Saturday, November 29, starting at 6 p.m. We invite you to bring the family and help us open the holiday season. For more information and a map of the parade route, tap in here. See you there!

Your Heroes

Salute Your Hero
49 News wants to share personal stories of military service. If you have served or know someone who has, share the story online and on the air.

Submit a Your Hero story.

See Your Heroes photo gallery here.

Station of the Year

KTKA is your Station of the Year. We were recently awarded this honor, among others, by the Kansas Association of Broadcasters. Learn more.

Digital Television Info

By Feb. 17, 2009, all television transmissions will be digital. KTKA is counting down to that day. Will your television screen go black? Tap into resources that will aid you in making the switch. Go.

Premier Club


KTKA recognizes outstanding businesses. Go.


Voices

Latest blog entries

Why The Band Must March On

From I Heart Local Music

Why everyone should care about band programs in Kansas.

Interested in writing a blog? Send us a few sample entries! Let us know what you're interested in writing about, the experience you have with your topic, and anything else you think we'll find useful to know.

Latest blog comments:

Want to comment on the news?

Now you can - register for a free account and post comments to stories, blogs, podcasts and more, only on 49abcnews.com. Go »

Poll

Should the federal government bail out the ailing auto industry?

See the results without voting »


AP Video