What to Do, What to Do
When hurricane Joaquin averted us, a conversation that came up with my fellow students was what would you do in the event of a natural disaster. Joking answers of surfing tsunamis and hopping on planes to far flung lands were thrown around. The conversation made me start considering what would and should I do in the event of an emergency.
Natural disasters can appear as quick as a flash of lightening in a rogue thunderstorm or a gust of wind in a tornado. What we would do in these situations is never easily said. Thinking or even talking about them is not even close as experiencing it, but thinking about some of these questions about past situations may help you when new challenge does arise.
What events have I experienced in my life that were extremely stressful for me?
Times of hardship come in many shapes and sizes, whether they be natural in the shape of storms or emotional such as familial loss. How we have dealt with difficult times in the past can often assist us with the challenges that we face in the present.
How did I manage these stresses?
Do we face our challenges head on or do we pretend they do not exist? In the event of natural disaster, neglecting the issue is not always possible. You can’t run away from gallons of rain, but having thought about how to avoid the rain in advance can help you be well prepared.
Did I ask others for help or did I go at it alone?
Sometimes we resolve personal issues on our own. However, it is important when nature strikes to have something planned. With many internationals (including myself) on campus, it may be a good idea to consider seeing if others need help. Some of us have been through multiple hurricanes and others have never even heard of one before.
How did I keep my cool?
A very important part of any emergency situation is the ability to keep our cool. Are you the person who is prepared for the events that may unfold, or are you the one that runs out and requires others to put their lives further at risk to help you.
What have you learned from past events?
Past experiences always play a crucial role in how we develop. What do you know that those around you can benefit from in the event that something does happen?
Life is a series of events. Many of them are positive experiences that remind us why it is a great thing. Other times, we have to face natural forces that on our own. When we work together and prepare for the worst, there is nothing to fear except for fear itself.
If you are unsure of what to do in the event of an emergency, Florida Tech’s Student Handbook is available either hardcopy or the digital copy on the school website. Florida Tech’s Security Office can also inform you as to any questions.
