Emergency Preps

 

 

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Union University, Jackson, TN

 

 

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Video Transcript

Chuck Denney
It’s downright scary how fierce weather can be. There was no loss of life at Jackson’s Union University during a February tornado, but the aftermath still looks like a bomb went off here. Dorms and other buildings were chewed up and smashed by high winds. Sadly, for the people of Jackson, this is becoming a familiar site.

Amy Elizer
“The unfortunate thing about being hit by tornados several times in the last decade - we kind of know what to do.”

Chuck Denney
Knowing what to do - a key to being better prepared for an emergency like a tornado. UT Extension’s Amy Elizer says a good first step is determining where in your house you’d go if bad weather approaches.

Amy Elizer
“Where’s going to give you the best protection? People may have basements or storm cellars.”

Chuck Denney
If disaster hits, you're going to need money.

Amy Elizer
“You might want to have cash for a few days. You might want to have a credit card, your checkbook that you could get easily.”

Chuck Denney
Between 1976 and 2004, Tennessee had 26 declared major disasters, ranking us among the top ten states for emergencies.  Disasters are often unexpected, and being prepared for a worst-case scenario could make your recovery time at least a little easier.

Nat Sound
"You will also need to make sure you take medicine, an extra set of keys."

Chuck Denney
Dr. Dena Wise with UT Extension recommends putting together a “grab and go kit.” This is a box or backpack with money, important papers, medicines and a change of clothes and personal items - things people need if forced from their homes a few days.

Dr. Dena Wise
“Of course, they think that the worst is over immediately when they are no longer in physical danger, but the hassles of trying to restores continues - so if you do this ahead of time, one of the things that can do is lessen those hassles.”

Chuck Denney
UT experts recommend you put these items in plastic bags to keep them dry. Also for your grab and go kit, you need to think of the most basic of human necessities - food and water.

Amy Elizer
“We want to have a bottled water supply and that’s certainly something that you could replenish from time to time. You want to have some canned foods on hand - can opener if they’re not a pop top kind. You want to have things that don’t have to be heated.”

Chuck Denney
Our recent past tells us emergency situations are inevitable in this part of the country. While there’s no need for a gloomy outlook, being smart and prepared could serve you well.

END

NOTE: UT Extension experts say you also need communication in the event of an emergency - especially to call for help or let others know you’re okay. But don’t assume your cell phone or other electronic equipment will work.