Prepare Kansas: Picking Up The Pieces
By Nora Rhoades, Family and Youth Development Agent
What if? What if the tree that’s shaded your home for years fell on it during a storm? What if a planned burn on the prairie got out of control? What if a tornado hit?
No one wants to think about what ifs, but thinking about such possibilities ahead of time can help throughout the recovery process.
Let family and friends help. Ask them to witness, photograph or videotape the damage. Let them run errands, store your important papers, and provide temporary food, clothing, and lodging.
Document the disaster with a camera and/or video tape after you’ve determined it’s safe to do so. You will need documentation when applying for disaster assistance, taking tax deductions for the losses, and submitting claims to insurance companies.
Keep a pocket notebook with you at all times after a disaster. Record the names and dates of people you spoke with, including government agencies, relief organizations, contractors and insurance companies.
Keep your receipts -- all of them, including those for the basic necessities you might have to buy. This includes check stubs from vouchers you may receive from the Salvation Army, Red Cross or United Way. Find a system for storing them that works for you, such as a three-ring binder, plastic accordion file, plastic shoebox or bag.
September is designated as National Preparedness Month by the Federal Emergency Management Agency http://www.fema.gov/. Take time now and prepare for potential disasters to make recovering from a disaster less difficult.
For resources to assist with disaster preparedness visit your local Post Rock District Office in Beloit, Mankato, Lincoln, Osborne, and Smith Center. Find out more by connecting to the Prepare Kansas Blog and the Post Rock Extension District's Facebook Page.
