Nurses for a Safer America

Banana Pack Disaster Sack is the collective effort of emergency room and intensive care unit nurses concerned about the most pressing issue of modern times: "surge capacity." Most Americans have never even heard the term "surge capacity" let alone know how it will directly affect their families, businesses, neighborhoods and communities in the event of a disaster.

The truth is, no state is fully prepared to respond to a major public health threat, and most states lack "surge capacity "- that is, the capacity of hospitals and clinics to respond to the large influx of patients that could occur in the aftermath of a natural disaster or terrorist attack.

In addition to the monumental challenges associated with surge capacity, our nation is in the midst of a severe nursing shortage - further compromising patient care. Our nation's hospitals are already operating at or above capacity, and according to federal data 500 hospitals and 1,128 emergency rooms have been forced to close in the past decade. With fewer nurses, fewer hospitals, and no solution in sight - the continuing workforce shortages pose a significant threat to public health and safety.

To compound the problem, officials warn that medical personnel are inadequately trained to deal with infectious diseases and other illnesses related to bioterrorism - placing the public at an even greater risk. For example, few states reported they had the capacity to evaluate or treat 500 or more patients involved in a single incident. In addition, few states reported having the capacity to rapidly establish clinics to immunize large numbers of patients. Unfortunately, most citizens are unaware that in the event of a chemical or biological attack, first responders would most likely be local hospitals, presenting serious concerns over the survivability of the medical staff you are relying on to assist you.

As part of America's vital health care infrastructure; hospitals, nurses, and medical personnel play a key role in disaster response, and in the aftermath of a moderate to large scale disaster there simply won't be enough hospitals or staff to render treatment to the masses. Consequently, families, businesses, neighborhoods and communities must be prepared to be on their own and without essential services for a minimum of three days.

While efforts are underway to strengthen and prepare our nation's health care system, a quick fix is unlikely. The lack of individual preparedness only magnifies the burden placed on first responders, hospitals, nurses, police, fireman, disaster relief agencies and the military. Remember, being prepared is everyone's job and it's up to each of us to do our part. The time to act is now! Preventing unnecessary catastrophic losses through individual readiness is our duty, and if we fail to make a choice in the immediate hours and days ahead, the consequences could be catastrophic.

How can you help? According to the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA and the American Red Cross, all Americans should own a comprehensive disaster supply kit, have a communications plan, and stay informed about what to do in each type of disaster.

As representatives of the medical community, it is not our intention to promote fear, but rather to educate, encourage and empower citizens with the most advanced disaster preparedness system available. Banana Pack Disaster Sack's primary goal is to reduce the risks we face by providing the tools necessary to maximize self-preservation and reduce our vulnerabilities. By simplifying the challenges associated with disaster preparedness we believe the public will be better equipped to cope with the affects of a disaster, whether natural or man made.

We strongly urge citizens to come together with unity and purpose because our nation demands it and our lack of national resources require it. Please, don't be a part of the problem, be a part of the solution! One voice can save many. Encourage employers, schools, churches, community leaders and congress to actively participate and invest in education, prevention and preparedness. At Banana Pack Disaster, we believe that one person can make a difference, and it starts with you!

•  Be Vigilant 
•  Pay Attention to the Current Terror Alert Level
•  Talk to Your Children
•  Learn CPR & First Aid
•  Start a Neighbors Unite or C.E.R.T Group 
•  Support Our Troops 
•  Take Notice of Your Surroundings
•  Report Suspicious Items or Activities to Authorities
•  Get your Banana Pack Disaster Sack
•  Complete Your Plan of Action Kit
•  Complete Your Financial Preparation Kit

Help us support our troops by acknowledging their sacrifice and doing your part to further protect our homeland. Remember we are all in this together. We must put our political biases aside and stand behind their efforts. Fighting terror abroad is their responsibility, homeland security is our responsibility. Remember, united we stand or united we fall.