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Coping with Disaster Feature Articles

 

Talking smoke detectors wake sleeping children better than shrill, beeping alarm

The piercing 85-decibel alarm from smoke detectors will wake most adults with a start, but small children might sleep right through them...more

 

How to Handle Food from a Flood

Flood water can be toxic so precautions need to be taken to prevent illness. There are special ways of handling cooking utensils such as pots and pans and food that have been exposed to flood waters...more

 

Fast Food for Emergency Meals?

Many Americans have fast food on a regular basis, making a quick stop at the drive-through. When emergencies strike, an emergency supply of food is needed – fast! When stuck in a storm shelter for hours or days, the food stored there can make all the difference. After the emergency, especially if the power is out for a prolonged period, an appropriate emergency food supply is essential...more

 

Make emergency plans for spring storms

Missouri had more than 100 tornadoes and nine disaster declarations in 2006. Every county in the state experienced at least one natural disaster. Preparing for a disaster can prevent deaths and injuries, said Eric Evans, a community emergency management specialist with University of Missouri Extension...more

 

Be Prepared for Emergencies--creating a 3-day food/water supply

Food storage is part of being prepared for emergencies and natural disasters. Individuals and families can eliminate some stress, worry and inconveniences by planning for emergency food needs. How much and which foods to store will depend on the members of your household, your preferences, special health conditions, ability to use the food in an emergency, and space for storage...more

 

Emotional damage from natural disasters can add to stress levels long after the crisis is over

The emotional damage of droughts, floods and other natural disasters can be felt long after the immediate crisis is over, according to a licensed clinical social worker at the University of Missouri. Families should watch the signs of stress and depression, and get help if needed...more

 

Weathering the Storm: How Change Affects Families

Families who weather a particularly bad storm are likely to experience stress. Anytime there is an undesired change, there is potential for stress. When children are involved, it is important that parents understand the affects of such stress and to know what they can do to help their family cope...more

 

So, the Power Has Been Off, Now What about the Food?

When freezers or refrigerators are off for several hours – no matter the reason -- the food safety rules about what to keep or toss are the same according to Terry Egan, nutrition specialist with University of Missouri Extension...more

 

Keep Your Food Safe during a Power Outage

One important thing to know is how to save as much food as possible when the electricity is off...more

 

How to Save Food After a Power Outage

Whether your freezer and refrigerator are shut off due to storm, forgetfulness or accident, the food safety rules about what to keep or toss are the same. Why not print this article and post it near your freezer and/or refrigerator for easy reference? ...more

 

Financial Recovery and Risk Management

As you attempt to restore your life and home after a storm, you will face many decisions. Naturally, you’ll want to recover as much as possible through your homeowner’s insurance policy. Where insurance falls short of your needs, other types of assistance may be available...more

 

Property loss from disasters can be tax deductible

Uninsured disaster victims may recoup some of their losses by filing proper tax forms because property losses from natural disasters are tax deductible....more


Smallpox - Do I need a vaccination?

The simple answer is no. The United States Department of Health and Human Services is not recommending that the general public be vaccinated for smallpox at this time. There is no reason to believe that smallpox presents an immediate threat....more

 

Take steps before a disaster strikes to be prepared financially if and when it does

During a time of disaster, it is difficult enough to deal with its emotional effects, much less any financial effects--like a sudden loss of income or unavoidable increase in expenses. A family in crisis generally needs more resources to get through it. That is why it is so important to take steps before a disaster strikes to be prepared financially if and when it does....more

 

Children and Memories: September 11th

The anniversary of September 11 may affect your children. Here are some tips to encourage your children to share their feelings and concerns...more

 

Talking with Children about the September 11th Anniversary

Repeatedly watching disaster footage can be disturbing to anyone, not just children. Try to plan which programs your family will watch...more

 

Messages for helping children during a time of crisis

Children look to adults for reassurance and guidance on how to react. What adults say and do can help distance children from the sense of threat, help them work through their emotions, and maintain or regain a sense of normalcy....more


Keep food on hand for a rainy day--Emergency Pantry

Being prepared for power outages, inclement weather or even times when you don’t feel up to shopping or cooking is a smart move....more

 

When Your Income Drops, Take Control

No amount of money or planning can guarantee that your family will not go through a disaster at some point. Disaster comes in many forms and can vary in the severity of its impact on your family. Disaster can strike at any time...more

 

 

 

 

 

Last update: Tuesday, September 02, 2008

 

 


 
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