Increasingly, the world has witnessed a surge in natural disasters and emergencies, from devastating floods and wildfires to severe storms and unforeseen health crises. Sri Lanka has faced its share of these tragedies. As our climate and region become increasingly unpredictable, there is a pressing need for communities and individuals to be proactive in their preparedness. The cornerstone of this preparedness lies not only in Government action but in the collective responsibility of families and individuals to ensure their own safety and resilience. In many countries, civil disaster/emergency preparedness is taught as part of school curricula and is supported by well-established and resourced State mechanisms.
Emergencies rarely arrive with generous warning. When disaster strikes, confusion and panic can easily set in if there is no clear plan of action. That is why every household should have a family disaster or emergency plan. Such a plan is more than just a checklist—it is a lifeline that ensures each member knows exactly what to do, where to go, and who to contact when the unexpected occurs. Countries like Singapore, the United States, Estonia and others encourage their citizens to have such plans and aid in their development.
Effective plans should address a range of possible scenarios, including fires, flooding, earthquakes, landslides, hazardous material spills, severe weather events, armed conflicts, and evacuation orders. Key elements include how to communicate if family members are separated, where to meet, and how to respond to the specific hazards most likely to affect your area. Communication is the bedrock of any emergency response. Families should regularly discuss their plan, ensuring everyone—including children and elderly members—understands their role. This includes agreeing on a primary contact person outside the immediate area, who can serve as a central point if local networks collapse. Practising the plan through regular drills can make all the difference, allowing each person to act quickly and confidently under pressure.
Preparedness begins with knowledge. Each region has its own set of natural hazards, whether it be coastal flooding, earthquakes, or severe winds. It is crucial to educate yourself and your family about the risks specific to your locality. State and local authorities typically provide resources identifying these hazards and have designated certain areas as safe zones for evacuation. Familiarising yourself with these official recommendations is essential—not only does it give you a clear destination in case of evacuation, but it also ensures you avoid areas that may be especially vulnerable. Question provincial or district authorities about the hazards or risks, if they don’t have answers, then the public should make it a priority to address.
Mapping out evacuation routes ahead of time is equally important. Roads can quickly become congested or impassable during emergencies, so having alternative routes and a pre-agreed meeting place is prudent. In the chaos of an emergency, there may be little time to gather supplies. That is why having a ‘Go bag’ prepared is a simple yet vital step for every household. A well-stocked Go bag should contain: Important documents or their copies, such as passports, insurance papers, birth certificates, and deeds. A list of emergency contacts. Prescription medicines and basic first aid items. Non-perishable food and water for at least 24 to 48 hours. Flashlights, batteries, and a mobile phone charger – or power bank. Sometimes a small FM radio may also come in handy. Remember, during the Ditwah Cyclone, cellular phone reception was not available for days. A few clothing and personal hygiene items, and Cash in small denominations, would make for a well-stocked ‘Go bag’.
Store your Go bag in an easily accessible location and update its contents regularly, especially as family needs change. Make monthly checks on the Go bag to ensure all items are up-to-date, functional and that consumables do not go bad, especially medicines and food.
Despite the best-laid plans, emergencies can escalate rapidly, and circumstances may change. It is crucial to monitor official alerts and heed advice from State and local authorities. These warnings are based on the latest information and expert assessments—they are designed to protect lives. Ignoring evacuation orders or official instructions can put you and your loved ones at considerable risk. Disaster preparedness and resilience are everyone’s duty. You should be ready to look after your loved ones and do your best.