Planning Ahead to Maintain Calm in a Risky Political Climate

  
  The fear of a terrorist response to the United States' bombing of Afghanistan, the resulting economic downturn, and the angst of individual responsibility has left many people sleepless and depressed. For some who've had sleepless nights earlier in their lives, it's awakened old fears. So the first step is to remind yourself that those old fears aren't current. They are old and in the past. They no longer exist.

There are new issues you may want to not worry about but instead plan for how you're going to lessen their potential impact on you and your family. For example:

  • Avoid being in potential target areas:      
    People from war-torn countries remind us to
        - Avoid crowds
        - Get out of targeted buildings as         quickly as possible
        - Choose exiting the area by foot          rather than by bus or train.
        - Stay aware of the people around         you. You intuitively know what         trouble looks and feels like - get         away from it as soon as you           sense it.
  • Establish a contact point and/or a meeting point for your family. Work this out with your employer now. If you can't get to your children quickly, have someone you can absolutely trust pick them up & meet you at a prearranged & reachable spot
          - Get a cell phone service that           works
          - Have a backup place your family           can call in case the telephone           lines in your neighborhood are           shut down
          - Make sure everyone has the
            important telephone numbers
            with them (in a panic, memory
            can leave you)
  • Have a supply of water, food, meds
    and other essentials, including cash, maps, portable radio, protective clothing, etc. ready  in case you have to stay in your home for extended time. Have a portable supply ready if you have to leave your home quickly
  • Plan an escape route & destination that won't be hampered by traffic, bridges, or tunnels. Your escape route should be inland and away from munitions sites, military bases and power plants.
  • Keep your car tank full
  • Have a bible, tape or inspirational & calming resource in your supply kit

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