The nature of the world that we live in means a disaster and emergency can strike at any time. It often catches us at unexpected times, and the shock of being caught unaware means that we might not be able to respond appropriately when it matters the most. Disasters and emergencies can range from fires, chemical hazards, earthquakes, tornadoes, violence, and medical emergencies like heart attack and stroke. Being able to recognize and act accordingly in an emergency can make all the difference between life and death. An emergency plan can help you tackle the worst in a terrible situation, and while you may not be exactly able to avoid any harm that befalls you and your family, you can at least try to minimize its impact.
Why Planning is Important
Having an emergency plan means that you and your family sit down and decide what exactly to do in case of an emergency. You can start by stockpiling certain items that can go scarce in case of a natural disaster, and can decide on a specific meeting point in case you and your family members separate. Keeping a list of all the important government and nongovernmental organization’s contact information can help especially when you might be not able to figure out who exactly to reach out for help during an emergency.
While the needs and requirements during an emergency can vary according to the nature of the disaster, some emergencies might require urgent care and ER Laboratory Testing services. Here are some of the reasons that you should always be well-informed about the location of your nearby emergency services.
Your GPS/Phone Might Not Be Working
Most of us have become dependent on our smartphones, and expect everything to be accessible with a simple click. Unfortunately, in cases of emergencies, our most reliable source of information might not be accessible because power outages and internet breakdowns are very common in cases of natural disasters like earthquakes and even war situations.
Also, in the aftermath of most disasters, there is an increase in the number of people trying to reach their loved ones through calls and most mobile networks are unable to cope with the increased demand. In cases of terrorist attacks, governments might also shut down mobile networks as a measure of public safety.
At that time, knowing the exact location of nearby emergency services can make a massive difference. You will be able to access help when needed, and can physically transport someone who needs urgent medical care.
You Might Not Have Your GPS/Phone
Given the nature of disasters, it means they can happen at times when it’s not always convenient for us. Being able to adapt is the key to survival. Knowing you can be caught in situations where you might have lost your phone or GPS means you need to be able to locate nearby emergency services without the use of your cell phone.
If you find someone in need of urgent transport to a hospital, having a list of medical centers can prove to be handy at that time. Be prepared for the worst, and knowing what to do in the worst of situations can help you cope better in case an actual emergency strikes.
You Can Save Yourself Time
Time is money, and that’s especially true in emergencies. It’s natural to be confused during an emergency and if you don’t have an emergency plan, you can lose valuable time. In cases of medical emergencies like stroke and heart attack, every minute after the main event can lead to an undesirable outcome if not treated on time. Being able to recognize and quickly transport the person to the nearby accident and emergency room can save his or her life. Instead of trying to Google and locate the best hospital during an emergency, you can save yourself time if you know it beforehand and can act quickly.
Being well-prepared also helps you keep level-headed, and knowing the exact physical location of nearby emergency services can provide you mental ease in a crisis.
Not All Countries Have EMS
While most people rely on EMS systems to help and transport patients in emergencies, unfortunately not all countries possess a robust EMS network. Also, even if your country has an EMS system, there can be a delay in reaching the ambulance service and you might need to take things into your hand. Having a sound knowledge of where to take your loved ones in case of a medical emergency can prove vital to their survival in a crisis.
Disasters are unfortunate events that can affect the safety of you and your loved ones. Of course, no one can predict when something bad will happen to them but being well-prepared in advance can help you seek help and improve your chances of survival. Having an itinerary of nearby emergency services can be especially helpful in situations when you might not be able to think quickly. It is essential to communicate the emergency response plan with your family members so they can all be well-equipped and prepared for future disasters.