Mini-Challenges: Know where to go

In either every day emergencies (what do you mean your sister shoved a Q-tip up her nose?) or in disaster situations, it is important to know where you can go for help. So, our April 1 mini-challenge is to "know where to go" in case of an emergency.

There are probably several types of places you will need to "stake out". Here is a short (though by no means comprehensive) list of places you might consider locating in your area.

• Hospitals: Someday, everyone needs a hospital. Whether it is for having that baby, or taking in your toddler that decided the top bunk was a great place to jump from, you need to know where your nearest hospital is. Be sure you know where and how to get to emergency rooms or other speciality locations (such as Labor and Delivery) in the hospital. Learn the hours of entrances and exits (sometimes at night certain hospital entrances are closed). In some areas, certain types of patients can only be taken to certain hospitals. Learn where your trauma center is, any children's hospitals, or perhaps even just an urgent care center (which can generally handle "light" emergencies without a visit to an actual hospital).
• Emergency Shelters: Contact your local Red Cross or Emergency Services office to determine where shelters would likely be in an emergency. Often times schools, sporting venues, churches, or other large venues (such as reception halls or gyms) will become shelters during an emergency (I remember spending a few days at our local church during a hurricane).
• Emergency Evacuation Routes: During certain types of emergencies, roads, bridges or tunnels may be closed. Learn what your local emergency evacuation routes are, what roads will be closed, and how to get to them. You can usually contact your local town hall or Emergency Services office to learn what the routes are.
• Police Stations: Your emergency may require the intervention of law enforcement, so know where your local police station is. Know your emergency services number (in the US this is usually 911, but rural areas may not have this central service). Be sure that your children know how to get ahold of law enforcement.
• Fire Stations: Fire fighters are an important part of emergency response. They can provide fire protection and rescue, as well as medical services. Know where the closest fire station is to your house and how to get there. Also know where the closest fire hydrant is, in case this information needs to be relayed to the first responders.

Now that you have some suggestions as to what to look for (and please if you have other ideas about places you should find, post it!), here are some suggestions on what to do.

1. Keep a list of addresses and phone numbers, and hours if applicable, for these locations.
2. Mark locations on a map of the local area.
3. Mark out routes from your home to these locations on a map.
4. Practice driving (or walking if possible) to these locaitons from your home, work, or school. This will help to ensure that during an emergency that you know how to get there.
5. Ensure that everyone in your home knows about these locations. Consider having a family night to go over routes or information.

Knowledge is power, and sometimes it is what will get you through an emergency. Know, be prepared, practice, and be ready.

And now you know, and knowing is half the battle (and yes I am quoting G.I. Joe).