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Worst possible catastrophes in our area? Sharon Harris Nuclear Plant Poses Horrific Evacuation Threat to NC RTP and the Greater Raleigh Area
Has Hurricane Katrine taught us the importance of Household Disaster Plans?
9/10/2005 Wake Forest, NC, courtesy of Wake Forest.Biz
Last winter, we saw many roads turn into overnight parking lots as a result of just a half an inch of snow. We saw school children forced to spend all night in school because it was too dangerous for the buses to roll. If we ever have to evacuate due to a meltdown or explosion at Sharon Harris, we are not prepared. Even if road conditions are dry, evacuation routes are inadequate. Hurricane Katrina has shown us that federal response in the event of a disaster is not something to bet your life on. Since we cannot wave a magic wand and have instant, well-planned disaster support from government, each household and family should consider forming their own plans for dealing with emergencies, including emergency evacuation. What plans does your family have? We recommend you have these discussions now. Decide how to handle disasters if they strike when one of you is at work or away. Do you try to make it home first? What if your vehicle does not start? Do you keep some spare gasoline you can take with you? Decide where and how you will meet after an emergency evacuation. Now is the time to plan an evacuation route. If you do not have transportation, talk to your neighbors and determine how exactly you are going to evacuate. If you refuse an evacuation order, make it easy for rescue workers to identify you. Making plans now, and discussing them with your household and family, could save a lot of guesswork and perhaps your life or the life of someone you love.
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