Natural disasters are unpredictable, which makes having a plan ready in place important to protect you and your family. Disasters can take place even when on vacation, creating a travel emergency. Here a are few tips for natural disaster preparedness when away from the home.

1. Research the Area

Understand what types of disasters can take place in your vacation destination. Certain parts of the country are more susceptible to severe weather such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and flash floods. Familiarize yourself on what events could take place to increase your natural disaster preparedness.

2. Know Evacuation Routes

Evacuation routes are your best bet on getting to a safe location quickly. Luckily evacuation routes have signs posted around the area to direct you to high ground in the case of a tsunami. Be on the lookout for these when traveling. You can also ask the front desk agents upon arrival where the closest evacuation spot is and they will happily point you in the right direction. The Old Town Inn is outside of the local tsunami inundation zone.

3. Familiarize Yourself With Alert Systems

Different locations have different alerts. An alert siren in Nebraska may not have the same meaning as a siren on the Oregon coast. Do some exploring on the web to learn more about what type of alerts could be signaled in your vacation location. In Florence, a three-minute siren sound signals that a tsunami is approaching and to evacuate the area.

4. Create a Plan

Once you have identified the possible disasters and studied the area, it is time to create a plan. Discuss with your family the plan and where you will go if there is an emergency. In the case that not everyone is together, develop a meeting place that is in a safe location. In Florence, the Florence Events Center is one of the key evacuation locations.

5. Prepare a Bag

If there is a natural disaster, you should be prepared to be without assistance for a period of time. A disaster preparedness bag is easy to assemble. A few things to add to your bag are:

  •  Water – Typically one gallon per person per day.
  • Non-perishable foods and can opener.
  • Flashlights and batteries.
  • First aid kit.
  • Radio
    More information on preparedness is available here.

6. Portable Chargers

When disaster strikes you should be prepared to be without power. Portable chargers are important as they will power your phone when electricity is down. Phones can be used to contact family, emergency responders, disaster information lines and more. Phones can also be used as flashlights in the case that you do not have one packed and prepared. One of the most important things regarding portable chargers is making sure they are fully charged. A dead charger does you no good in a travel emergency.

7. Tell Friends and Family Where You Are Going

It is important to keep loved ones in the loop on your upcoming travels. In a travel emergency, it is necessary that someone knows where you are. This can help in locating you and your family in the event of an emergency.

8. Earthquake Safety

While earthquakes are uncommon in the area, they still do exist. If an earthquake does occur, seek shelter. This can be done by sitting under a sturdy table or desk until the earthquake is over. If outside, move to an open area and avoid tall trees and buildings. Be aware of potential aftershock quakes.

9. Know the Signs of a Tsunami

Tsunamis take place after a shift in the water, typically following an earthquake. This can result in a change in the water activity of the ocean. When this happens, water can suddenly recede out away from shore. This is a clear sign to immediately seek high ground and evacuate the area.

10. Stay Calm

One of the most important things to do in a vacation disaster is stay calm. While natural disasters can be unsettling, remaining calm is critical. The best way to ensure levelheaded thinking is to make sure that you have your natural disaster preparedness plan. Following these tips will help you be prepared for your vacation.

Natural disasters are uncommon in the area of Florence, Oregon, however it is always important to be prepared.

When visiting Florence, make sure to book a stay with us at Old Town Inn. We’ll see you soon!