For This Paper You Must Cite And Reference 2 Sources

For this paper you must cite and reference 2 sources. The paper should

Prepare a comprehensive disaster preparedness report focused on tornado safety and personal readiness. First, outline a detailed emergency plan for a tornado coming within 15 minutes at your home, including selecting a safe shelter location, safety measures based on research, and how to apply these to your living situation. Second, assess your current disaster preparedness by describing your "go-bag," checklist, and any gaps or improvements, supported by specific examples. Third, reflect on your preparedness before this class versus now, noting new emergency items acquired, additional training plans, and whether you've shared your knowledge with others. This report should incorporate at least two credible sources on tornado safety and personal disaster preparedness, include in-text citations, and follow current APA formatting guidelines. The goal is to demonstrate understanding of emergency planning, personal readiness, and continuous improvement in disaster preparedness strategies.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Disaster preparedness, particularly for natural calamities like tornadoes, is crucial for ensuring safety and minimizing harm. The rapid progression of tornado events requires immediate action, and thus, detailed planning and preparedness become vital for every individual. This paper presents a comprehensive approach to preparing for an imminent tornado, assessing personal readiness, and reflecting on the evolution of my emergency preparedness practices.

Planning for a Tornado Emergency at Home

In the event of a tornado approaching my home with just 15 minutes' warning, I would prioritize quick, decisive action based on established safety guidelines. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the first step is to identify a safe room or location within the house designed to withstand tornado force winds. Typically, this entails a small, interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows, exterior walls, and doors. In my home, I would choose the interior bathroom, reinforced by identifying it as a designated shelter zone.

Research indicates that sheltering in a bathroom or closet beneath sturdy furniture or beneath staircases (if interior and away from windows) is effective in minimizing injury. I would ensure that my shelter area is stocked with essentials, including bottled water, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered weather radio. These safety measures align with guidelines from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which emphasizes the importance of choosing a small, windowless room for sheltering during a tornado (FEMA, 2017).

Applying this to my living arrangements, I would prepare by reinforcing the bathroom door if necessary, securing heavy furniture, and conducting regular drills with my family. Additionally, I would keep emergency contact information, a portable charger, and a weather alert system within arm’s reach. Such measures ensure rapid response and safety during the critical minutes before touchdown.

Assessing Personal Disaster Preparedness

My current level of disaster preparedness has significantly improved over time. Initially, I lacked a structured plan and essential items. Now, I maintain a well-equipped "go-bag" containing bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, and personal identification. However, I recognized gaps, such as not having a fire extinguisher or a comprehensive communication plan. Supporting this, analysis of my preparedness checklist revealed that I lacked rain barrels and fire-resistant supplies, which are critical in certain disaster scenarios.

For example, my "go-bag" initially lacked specialized items like a whistle or dust mask, which I have since added. These items facilitate signaling for help and respiratory safety in debris-laden environments. The continuous assessment of my supplies ensures readiness for various hazards, including floods, fires, or storms.

Reflection on Evolving Preparedness

Prior to this course, my emergency preparedness was rudimentary, based on basic supplies without a detailed plan. Now, I have acquired additional emergency items, such as a battery-powered radio, emergency blankets, and a multi-tool. I also plan to enroll in certification courses like First Aid and CPR to better respond to injuries during disasters.

Sharing knowledge has increased as well. I have discussed disaster preparedness with family members, emphasizing the importance of regular drills and updating emergency kits. This proactive approach enhances collective safety and ensures everyone understands their roles during an emergency.

Conclusion

Preparedness for natural disasters like tornadoes requires an informed, proactive approach grounded in current research and personal assessments. By identifying safe shelter locations, maintaining a well-stocked emergency kit, and continually updating my knowledge and supplies, I aim to reduce risks and enhance safety. The ongoing process of learning, practicing, and sharing emergency strategies underscores the importance of resilience in the face of unpredictable natural threats.

References

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). (2017). Tornado safety tips. https://www.fema.gov/tornado-safety-tips
• National Weather Service. (2020). Tornado safety tips. https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado
• American Red Cross. (2019). Tornado safety. https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/tornado.html