Editorial: Don't be scared, be prepared

Two weeks ago the government upgraded our national security alert from yellow to orange. Alone the colors mean nothing, but combine them with the words “High Alert” and you send the country scrambling.

Americans are stocking up on canned goods, water, batteries, duct tape, and even gas masks. In the year and a half since the terrorist attacks of September 11, Americans are really feeling the sting of living in fear.

In bombing scenarios that take place in “far off lands”—Israel, Germany, Bosnia, Kenya—Americans are just realizing their vulnerability. No longer are our borders impenetrable. No longer are our military defenses considered enough.

Government officials including Mayor Bloomberg urge all Americans to go about their “normal business.” With security checkpoints scattered throughout the city, the National Guard, and police out in massive numbers, and hospitals running test drills in case of an emergency, perhaps that’s easier said then done.

With this in mind, the Horizon does not want to add fuel to the fire. However, we feel that it is important to keep our readers informed.

In case of an emergency, it is important to be prepared. According to the Department of Homeland Security, there are three essential things everyone should do.

Establish a meeting place: If for some reason you are separated from your family, agree to reunite in a certain area. Pick a place that is secure. Stay away from obvious locations—Central Park, Times Square, etc.

Outside contact: Choose a person in another state who may not be affected by the same emergency. Make sure everyone in the family has phone numbers and e-mail addresses.

Disaster supply kit: Pack the essentials: batteries, flashlight, portable radio or television, canned food, water, first aid supplies, and a change of clothing for each family member. Include important papers, such as birth certificates, passports, insurance documents, and marriage license. Also, try to pack some cash.

For more information on disaster readiness, contact your local Red Cross or visit their web site at www.redcross.org.