Prepare...

In the wake of Ike and the severe damage resulting from yesterday's windstorm (reported winds of up to 75mph) I have decided to do a PSA for a couple of websites and organizations. Time after time, people decide to stay in an area when evacuations are suggested and then get pissed off that their homes are destroyed, they have no supplies and rescuers cannot get to them. In large part, proper planning can avert some of these problems.

Some websites and organizations to check out for help on preparing for disasters:

Ready.gov - prepared and maintained by the Department of Homeland Security, this site walks individuals through the process of preparing disaster kits and emergency plans for individuals, families, and businesses:
Ready.gov - Prepare. Plan. Stay Informed.
Also under the Department of Homeland Security is the Citizen Corps, an organization dedicated that helps citizens prepare for disasters and volunteer in their communities *(in areas other than disaster preparedness and response, as well)*:
http://www.citizencorps.gov/
The national page for CERT (Community Emergency Response Teams):
http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/index.shtm

Locally:
Franklin County (Ohio) Emergency Management Agency:
http://www.franklincountyohio.gov/emahs/
Delaware County (Ohio) EMA:
http://www.co.delaware.oh.us/dcems/dcema/index.htm
Franklin County CERT:
http://www.fccert.org/Index.Htm