Disaster preparedness is paramount just in case it strikes. In order to be prepared against terrorist attacks, it is imperative to put in place some measures that can reduce the possible loss of life. Hence, to be prepared against terrorist attacks entails creating a communication plan that can be used specifically during disasters. Whenever a disaster occurs, there should be a communication system in place whereby family, friends and other acquaintances can contact each other to ascertain if they are well. For instance, an individual who is located at a distant place can be used as the point of contact to inquire about the well being of those suspected to be trapped in a terror attack (Hulnick, 2004). Every family member ought to have that out-of-town contact. Such a sound communication strategy in place can assist in offering help whenever there is need.
To be prepared also implies that when terrorists attack, there should be a common meeting point that has been established in advance. This will ensure that time is not wasted as well as alleviating the level of confusion after an attack (U.S. Government Printing Office, 2010).
Moreover, a disaster kit is necessary so that those affected by the disaster can remain comfortable. The kits should always be ready and well arranged in a manner that is easy to carry. These disaster kits may also be stocked with special needs such as those needed by invalids and infants. Besides, first aid equipment is equally necessary just in case some first help is needed before a victim can be referred to a hospital. Furthermore, it is imperative to note that being patient and composed when terrorists attack is part of being prepared. This will allow the affected group to stick to the instructions of emergency officials to avoid any secondary casualties. People who remain calm will also be in a position to follow radio or television news on the progress of the attack.
The concept of disaster preparedness needs to be revisited with zeal. The traditional or cultural ways of disaster management seem to be out of place and no longer works to the benefit of the vulnerable population. According to the U.S. Government Printing Office (2010) on 9/11 Commission report, the conventional and which is also the current system of responding to disasters entails waiting for the occurrence of a disaster and then taking action. This approach definitely requires a paradigm shift. Besides, the design in which strategies for handling disasters have been conceptualised also take the form of a post disaster approach. It appears like emergency officials are trained to be reactive and not proactive to disasters. The cultural shift should attempt to investigate causes of disasters. This should also entail a thorough environmental impact assessment of disasters.
Effecting the disaster preparedness model is part and parcel of driving a cultural shift of managing disasters from a reactive to proactive approach (Hulnick, 2004). Firstly, the survey involves carrying out an environmental impact assessment of disasters and possible causes, planning entails adopting proactive strategies of managing disasters while mitigation can be effected by toning down the likely causes of disasters such as improving the status of foreign relations.
At present, I do not feel fully prepared in the event of a disaster because it is difficult to estimate the scale of attack, time of attack and location. Due to this complexity, I do not feel to be protected comprehensively. Further, our current preparedness efforts are lacking a more direct and active government involvement (Hulnick, 2004). Non-governmental organisations and passive government agencies have assumed the responsibility. In addition, the local community still needs to be thoroughly equipped with disaster preparedness skills.
References
Hulnick, S.A (2004). “Keeping us safe: secret intelligence and homeland security”, Westport: Praeger Publishers.
U.S. Government Printing Office (2010). “The 9/11 Commission Report”. Web.