Disasters caused by hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, or fires are frequently in the news. People often believe that "it can't happen here" "it won't happen to me or us' "God is a Trinidadian": but the truth is that disasters can and do happen here, placing everyone at risk.

Fortunately, there are some things that everyone can and should do to prevent, prepare for and cope with disaster related emergencies long before a disaster threatens. "Research has shown that the majority of deaths in a disaster occur as a result of people doing the wrong thing or not knowing what to do" says the President of the Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society, Delia Chatoor.

Through its "Better Be Ready! " campaign kicking off in early June, the local Red Cross will stress the urgency of individuals, families, and communities to get ready for disasters, and will share potentially lifesaving disaster tips with the public.

For those disasters that have a long warning time, such as hurricanes and many floods, the Red Cross says that people can reduce risk if they stay tuned to local radio and television and evacuate when told to do so. "When people wait too long before they respond, deaths and injuries can occur," Chatoor said.

In disasters that strike with little or no warning, such as flash floods and lightning, people in order to learn to recognize the conditions that bring about the hazard, should stay tuned to local radio and television, and follow instructions given.

While there is virtually no warning for an earthquake, the Red Cross advises that proper precautions and quick action can save lives. Similarly, the only real warning about fire might be with a smoke detector, but there are many ways in which to prevent fires and when they do occur there are simple steps to take to stay safe.

In any disaster, the Red Cross stresses the importance of planning and preparing ahead of time to equip us with skills to deal with such powerful forces of nature.

'The Red Cross is prepared to help people in our community during and after a disaster.but we must all recognize that the key to minimizing the effects of an emergency is preparedness" Chatoor said.

The Red Cross is a valuable source of information on how to prepare for disasters and how to take safety measures when disasters occur.

The Red Cross is helping this community to be prepared before disasters strike by having an established disaster plan, training volunteers, and providing critical information to the public through efforts like its " BETTER BE READY!" campaign.