July is National Disaster and Preparedness Month

“Pamilya at Pamayanang Handa, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bansa”

This is the theme for this year’s National Disaster Consciousness which is observed every July. The month-long celebration is spearheaded by The League of Municipalities in the Philippines (LMP) and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).


With the rainy season coming in, it is imperative for every Filipino to know what to do when disaster strikes. This month, many LGUs from different parts of the country are promoting awareness to the people on natural disasters, specifically typhoons and earthquakes.


Why is this important?

It is a known fact that our country is surrounded by different bodies of water and when strong winds and heavy rains come, you will expect flash floods all over town. Not only that. Our country has more than 20 active volcanoes and a handful of active faults, specifically in Luzon. Typhoons can be predicted but earthquakes are not. It is better for us to be aware of what to do when disasters strike.


Disaster Preparedness

Preparation should start in your home. Make sure you have a survival kit ready in case disaster strikes.

The basic supplies included are:
- Few bottles of water
- Non-perishable food (noodles, canned goods or biscuits)
- Emergency tools/gear
- Personal effects and hygiene kit
- Important documents and money
- Special needs
- First aid kit

(source: http://www.redcross.org.ph/component...s-lifeline-kit)


You can also include a battery-operated radio to keep you updated. Make sure to have your cellphones fully charged and emergency numbers listed in a paper. Keep these important things in a Ziploc bag so it will not get wet. When your barangay or town leader asks you to evacuate, then you should listen.


Lastly, do not panic. It is not easy to stay calm in the midst of chaos. However, it is important to keep our mind relaxed for us to focus on what to do.

As the saying goes, it is better to be safe than sorry. Let us not wait for another disaster before we take action. It is always better to prepare for the unexpected.



Maria Celeste Abellana
iSTORYA League of Writers

*Celeste is a content writer. blogger. social media addict. learning social media marketing. loves music and coffee. future work-from-home mom. single parent to an awesome boy who is growing up too fast.