Because so many things happen unexpectedly in this life, emergency preparedness is necessary for every individual. It can save lives and prevents a lot of challenges that can potentially occur in any given situation.

Emergency preparedness is a plan that families, companies, and establishments have to respond accordingly and effectively during natural calamities and man-made disasters. It takes into consideration the hazards that could arise during these instances.

There are several trainings offered by various organisations and agencies that teach individuals what to do and what to pack in times of disasters:

Natural calamities

Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes are happening more frequently as the planet faces extreme effects of climate change. For instance, the increasing temperature of the planets causes more evaporation to gather in the clouds, resulting in stronger storms.

In 2017, most fatalities were caused by flash floods and tropical storms. The risk that comes with flash floods are debris-related as this strong rush of water can move houses, vehicles, and trees.

To be prepared for this kind of disaster, it's best to have an evacuation plan at home or in the building. When thunderstorms are predicted, skip the hiking or camping trips and also avoid basements or any underground areas. When the water starts rising, avoid traversing the waters because 6 inches of water is enough to sweep off a person.

Different natural calamities have different approaches when it comes to emergency preparedness as well.

Man-made disasters

Fires, structural collapse, acts of terrorism, etc. can happen anytime anywhere, especially when you have your guard down. In the workplace, fatalities are common with 144 workers severely injured from April 2017-March 2018.

The largest contributor to this number is the construction industry with 38 construction workers injured. Construction sites are a hotspot for safety hazards with debris, infrastructure, and heavy equipment squeezed into one area. The top five causes of fatalities are falling from a height, moving vehicles and objects, collapses, and machinery–all found in a construction site.

This is why employees and supervisors should undergo site management safety training schemes in Liverpool to inform construction workers of the potential hazards. Through this, they will know how to operate aerial lifts, elevated platforms, and manage line systems. They can also check on heavy equipment, such as cranes, to avoid overloading and other malfunctions.

First aid training

During the waiting time between the injury taking place and the arrival of professional medical help, a lot can happen to the injured person's body. Some major fatalities can be avoided from developing with the help of first-aid. For example, treating an open wound with an antiseptic, gauze, and other first-aid kit necessities, the person can avoid incurring infections.

First-aid training can teach you how to apply bandages properly, how to apply a cold compress, and what to do during minor injuries. They can also instruct participants on how to properly perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Being prepared during emergencies saves your life as well as the people around you. It's best to stay informed on what you can do during these disasters because, more often than not, your life is in your hands.