PCC Geography: Mr. Lee

Applied Geography and the Current Crisis in the Gulf Coast

Sep 15, 2005

We are constantly urging and reminding folks to learn to use the Geographic Systems Model to view the world. In particular, perception of environmental hazards tops the list when it comes to assuring safety and survival. Hurricane Katrina is a case in point.

The finger pointing and emotional accusations of what could have been done, should have been done will continue for some months or years to come. But as in many past cases, the knowledge and foresight was there. The political and intestinal fortitude to face the facts and ?“bite the bullet?” were not.

Visit the National Geographic Society website and read the article at this link: http://www3.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0410/feature5/

Take action NOW!
1) Review your time schedule to determine where you are 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

2) Use the Geographic Systems Model to list the common environmental hazards from each of the 4 environmental spheres for your region. Then change scale and do the same for each significant site in your daily life (e.g. home, commute route, work place, school, etc.).

3) Prepare an emergency kit relevant to your life / life-style, family, and circumstances.

4) Make a family emergency plan----include a contact outside your area.

5) Organize important family ?“vital Records?” (e.g. insurance policies, ownership/title documents, birth certificates, citizenship documents, etc.). Make copies, and put them in several ?“safe?” places. Be sure to periodically update these. One of the ?“safe?” places should be outside your general area.

6) Make a photo inventory of your property (e.g. home/apartment, office, car, etc.). Make copies and keep it with your family vital records.

All to often, we are lulled into complacency because ?“nothing has happened?” or we are too busy with day-to-day events in our lives. But being prepared is necessary and should be give top priority. You can kick back and take it easy AFTER you have taken the appropriate steps to be prepared.