Family Emergency Preparedness, Why and How
Of all the commandments and counsel we receive from our church leaders
, none are clearer or more detailed than to be prepared for the future. And yet, none seem to be forgotten so soon after we turn off the TV at the end of conference.
"The instability in the world today makes it imperative that we take heed of the counsel and prepare for the future. Start now to create a plan if you don't already have one, or update your present plan."
L. Tom Perry
Many unforeseen circumstances can make family preparedness essential. From fires, floods, earthquakes and storms to loss of income or health, a prepared family can face uncertainties with more faith and less fear. Who wouldn't want their family to be safe and confident in the face of adversity?
Family preparedness can be one of those "someday" things for many LDS members. "When I have a bigger house," "When I make more money," "When I have a family" are just a few of the reasons for procrastinating here. But remember, when you delay following God's commandments and counsel of the prophets you are not only risk unnecessary suffering, but also you won't receive the blessings associated with obedience to God's laws.
Time and again we are counseled by the leaders of our church to prepare for the future. Family preparedness can seem insurmountable. It can be one of those things we often don't know how or where to start. As with any large task, start with learning all you can about preparedness. There are many resources available to Latter Day Saint families.
Any task this important should be approached with prayer, thoughtfulness, discussion and planning. Involve your family. Listen to what they say. Teach principles of obedience and togetherness as you go. You will be surprised at what every member of the family has to add and the value of listening to their opinion.
Start small and set goals. These goals can be shaped to any family's circumstances and might include:
72 hour kits
Drinking water
A three month food supply
Financial resources
A long-term food supply
Medications and first aid supplies
Important documents
Clothing and bedding
A plan for reunion of the family after a disaster
Remember to put thought into your preparations. So many times we see church members get excited or worried about their "year's supply." This often results in a buying frenzy that might include a ton of wheat, hundreds of pounds of sugar, salt, powdered milk and survival foods. Since we often don't use foods in these forms, many Saints end up with a basement full of nearly inedible and unusable storage.
The Lord makes promises to us when we are obedient. His promises about preparedness are best summed up here:
"The need for preparation is abundantly clear. The great blessing of being prepared gives us freedom from fear, as guaranteed to us by the Lord in the Doctrine and Covenants: "If ye are prepared ye shall not fear" (D&C 38:30).
-L. Tom Perry
OK, now let's get started!
Family Emergency Preparedness, Why and How
By: Dan Camacho
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