JoAnn Scordino, CEM, contributing author of
Get Organized Today book, chapter:
Disasters Happen -- Organize for Action Now
Disasters Happen - Organize for Action Now
Chapter highlights
Checklists for vital documents, household plans, emergency supplies, etc.When and how to prepare for the unexpected.
National and local resources.
Chapter excerpt:
Preparing for the unexpected emergency or disaster can easily be a part of organizing your life affairs. As you are clearing your clutter and putting order to your environment, include getting prepared for the unexpected. This chapter will give you simple steps to upgrading your safety net for yourself and loved ones, your home, your workplace and your community.
According to the National Citizens Corps program, on average:
- In 95% of all emergencies, bystanders or victims themselves are the first to provide emergency assistance or to perform a rescue.
- There is one firefighter for every 265 people.
- There is one law enforcement officer for every 334 people.
- There is one paramedic/EMT for every 325 people.
On an average day in most communities in the United States, our system works. The great disparity between formal emergency personnel and citizens is fairly transparent to the majority of us. Those odds greatly increase against us for receiving professional help in larger scale events.