The number of people evacuated from
the 9/11 2001 unforgettable terrorist event was more than 300,000.
On September 3, 2005, at least 40,000 people evacuated from New
Orleans because of Hurricane Katrina. And during this past summer
of 2007, earthquakes in Japan, floods in Texas, and wildfires
in Utah, Nevada, and California forced countless people to flee
their homes.
It’s normal for people to be scared by the threat of man-made
disasters and Mother Nature’s wrath. However, when a catastrophe
hits, how do you know when to evacuate?
Your Body
When danger ignites, stressors can cause high anxiety. Simply
put, stress is triggered by the sensitivity of our sympathetic
system, which jump-starts the fight-or-flight syndrome, identified
by Dr. Hans Selye. So when the pressure is on, up go our pulse
rate, respiration, and muscle tension. In other words, physical
danger can be stressful. It can lead to pondering, “Will my neighborhood be next?” Some
folks won’t evacuate because they believe roads would be
too crowded and fleeing too dangerous. On the flip side, some people
become complacent or are in denial (i.e., they continue to work
or play as if everything is normal) if they are not immediately
threatened.
When Reality Hits: It’s not uncommon for authorities such
as the Fire Department or police officers to come door-to-door
and force you to evacuate. Or, you may receive a recorded message
from the Sheriff advising you of a voluntary evacuation--to get
out of harm’s way.
Survival Tip: Before chaos, panic, and physical danger sets
in, make your exit cool, calm, and collected.
Your Mind
It’s time to get a move on with an emergency evacuation checklist. It includes:
Family members and pets; documents; money; medications; food and water (for three
to seven days); toiletries (universal cure-alls vinegar and olive oil); clothing;
and computers.
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When
Reality Hits: It’s smart to have a prepared disaster
kit for both you and your companion animals so if you evacuate,
you don’t have to think when you are under pressure… Once
you arrive at your destination, keep abreast of the latest news.
Most likely, the event will be covered on TV, radio, and online
newspapers and publications.
Survival Tip: Keep your sanity. Fear of the unknown is scary.
But, you’ll be safer—so you’ll have peace of mind.
Your Spirit
Beware that this can be a stressful time and wreak havoc on
your soul and well-being. After all, you’re away from your creature
comforts and in a strange environment (i.e., shelter, hotel, etc.).
Reports will be confusing. Are there more aftershocks? Will the
water rise? Will the winds increase?
When Reality Hits: Some news reports may be sensationalized.
Other accounts may be misleading to prevent panic. Stay connected
and centered. Don’t be too quick to return home. Log onto local
and national news websites. Also, try www.earthquakeepicenter.com:
USGS-quakes; National Weather Service; Tsunamis; Volcanoes, and
more.
Survival Tip: Take a break from the disaster updates. Prayers
and meditation can work wonders.
 Cal
Orey is the author of The Healing Powers of Vinegar, Revised and
Updated, The Healing Powers of Olive Oil (Feb. 08), and Super Sensitives:
The How-To’s of Sensing Earth Changes. Log onto her website
at www.calorey.com
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