Final answer:
A family emergency plan is essential in preparing for a natural disaster or terrorist attack. Plan A entails doing nothing and potentially facing catastrophic outcomes, while Plan B involves taking proactive measures that could save lives and minimize damage, thereby fostering a sense of security and preparedness.
Step-by-step explanation:
A family emergency plan is indeed the best way to prepare for a natural disaster or terrorist act. Practicing a preparedness plan with your family can significantly reduce anxiety and damage in case of an emergency. When considering the context of a tornado approaching your town, let's explore the circumstances and outcomes of the four boxes in Figure 20.1:
Plan A - Do Nothing
If you decide not to prepare (Plan A), you may avoid the costs associated with implementing safety measures. However, the potential aftermath could be catastrophic, including severe property damage or loss of life, resulting in immense regret and a sense of irresponsibility.
Plan B - Take Cover and Prepare
If you choose to board up windows and take cover in a tornado shelter (Plan B), you may incur expenses and effort in preparation. But if the tornado does hit, the outcome could be significantly better, as your proactive measures could protect your family and home from the worst of the storm, leading to feelings of preparedness and security.
Aftermath and Feelings
Looking at all four scenarios, choosing Plan B aligns with a conservative approach. The initial investment in safety may cause minor inconvenience and expense if the tornado misses, but the alternative is living with the possibility of devastating consequences. In the end, a strong family emergency plan reflects a commitment to safety, ensuring you and your loved ones feel informed, prepared, and secure.
Conclusion
The outcomes of foregoing or taking preventative actions in the face of a potential natural disaster can vary drastically. The choice between action and inaction is crucial, as natural disasters are impartial and can result in random destruction or survival. Thus, a comprehensive family emergency plan can serve as a "break glass in case of emergency" safeguard, providing crucial guidelines and measures to navigate disasters efficiently.