Support for Military
No one likes to think about the possibility of natural disasters, such as floods, fires, hurricanes and tornados. Nor do they like to think about crimes, such as theft and vandalism. However, spending a little time making an emergency plan now can give you peace of mind and help you be prepared if something happens.
Here are some important things to consider when it comes to protecting yourself, your family and your home in the event of a disaster or other emergency.
Military OneSource offers you guidance on what you need to know to prepare for any kind of emergency. Follow these important steps:
Planning for the unexpected begins with becoming aware of natural disasters more likely in your area —your Military and Family Support Center or the local Red Cross can be helpful. And don’t forget a list of emergency contacts as well as how and when you will contact them.
No one wants to be rushing around during a disaster trying to find and pack important items. That’s where preparing your disaster kit and an emergency financial first aid kit comes in. And when there’s even a remote possibility of an evaluation, keep your gas tank full. Discover other tips in this podcast.
Be familiar with the programs that can help you connect with family members or other loved ones after a disaster.
Learn your installation’s security procedures and sign up for installation and community alerts so you know what to do in an emergency. When conditions are severely hazardous, military and community authorities require evacuation. In less extreme circumstances, they’ll only advise.
Renters insurance is property insurance designed for people who do not own their homes. If disaster strikes in the form of fire, vandalism, theft or in some other way, having renters insurance means you likely won’t be stuck paying to replace everything that was lost or damaged. Renters insurance is often overlooked, but for a small cost you can save a substantial amount of money in the event of a disaster.
Be prepared for natural disasters. Learn about TRICARE coverage, emergency prescriptions and referral waivers during emergencies.
During and after an emergency, you need to report to your command. Learn and follow the established procedure by visiting your affiliated service branch website. Accounting for yourself after a disaster isn’t just a good idea, it’s mandatory for Defense Department personnel.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency can provide housing assistance if your home is damaged or destroyed. The American Red Cross also provides shelter and other assistance for people in disaster situations.
All military installations have emergency management plans to help prepare for, manage and recover from disasters or emergencies. Know how to prepare yourself and your family and also how to get assistance if you find yourself impacted by a natural or manmade disaster.
Leave early when an evacuation is required, and don’t wait to see if conditions improve. Be alert for road hazards and follow recommended evacuation routines.
If your home has been damaged, your power and gas lines may have sustained damage as well. Be sure to take precautions, including turning off your gas and electricity if you can do so safely; avoiding puddles and other standing water; checking for leaking gas lines and propane containers; and staying alert, as standing structures may be fragile.
Provide plenty of ventilation for fuel-burning devices. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas, and it can be deadly. Seek medical attention if you or those around you experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
Depending on the disaster, media reports may provide news through the Emergency Alert System. This system, along with news and government agency social media sites, can provide information about what to do, where to go and how to contact local disaster relief services.
In addition, your installation may choose to activate an Emergency Family Assistance Center. EFAC provides a central hub for the dissemination of accurate and timely information and also provides and connects victims to support and resources. To learn more about EFAC, contact your Military and Family Support Center.
The quickest way to apply for assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. If you don’t have access to the internet, you can apply by phone. Call 800-621-3362.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency also provides housing assistance if your home was damaged or destroyed, and offers ways you can help victims of recent disasters. Call 800-621-3362 for help.
You can also reach out to your service relief organization. Service relief organizations offer emergency financial assistance, at times, in response to natural disasters and emergencies. Army Emergency Relief, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and the Air Force Aid Society are available to help. Depending on the circumstances, these organizations can provide help with interest-free loans, grants or a combination of loans and grants.
In addition, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides financial and legal protection for active-duty service members, including National Guard and reserve members and their families.
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