A few days ago the AP reported that a new survey shows we’re still not as prepared as we could be, in spite of preparedness efforts by Homeland Security.

For example, if there were a disaster such as an earthquake or terrorist attack, nearly two-thirds of U.S. parents would disregard orders to evacuate and would rush to pick up their kids from school, according to a new survey.  That’s a natural enough reaction, isn’t it?  What mom wouldn’t drop everything to make sure her children are safe?  However, authorities are concerned that ignoring orders to evacuate and trying to reunite with their children could possibly hinder rescue efforts by adding to traffic congestion.  About 45% of parents of school-age children don’t know what the school would do or where they might pick up their children.  The authors of the survey say that schools need to do more to plan for disasters and parents need to be made aware of the plans.

Here’s another example of preparedness gaps.  Homeland Security has allocated billions of dollars to help state and local governments set up disaster contingency plans. Nonetheless, 44 percent of the U.S. residents surveyed this year said they have all or some of the basic elements of a disaster preparedness plan, like food, water, a flashlight with extra batteries and a meeting place in case of evacuation.  Actually, I’m surprised the percentage is that high.  Of course, who knows how well prepared many of those people truly are in the event of an earthquake or hurricane like Ike.

In case you’re curious, the survey is done annually, and this report was commissioned by the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health and the Children's Health Fund.

            I can’t help but mention once again how important it is to have at least the minimum 72-hour kit of supplies for you and your family.  QuakeKare has those kits, and they also have them for schools and workplaces.  In fact, they even do fundraisers, so you could get your school involved in raising preparedness awareness while earning some money at the same time.

            While you’re thinking about it, click on the QuakeKare logo, then click on the School Kits category on their site and see what they have to offer.  Buy kits for your children, or encourage your school to buy kits.  Read about their lunchbox kits here.  QuakeKare is prepared to help you get prepared.