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Beyond the Headlines

Monday, February 08, 2010

Beyond the Headlines: Haiti Preparedness ::

Beyond the Headlines: Surviving the Holidays ::

Beyond the Headlines: Breast Cancer Awareness ::

Beyond the Headlines: Suicide Prevention ::

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ABC7's Emmy award-winning public affairs show, "Beyond the Headlines," provides in-depth coverage of the topics and issues facing the people of the Bay Area. Throughout the year, "Beyond the Headlines" airs half-hour specials on issues, ranging from Bay Area housing to same-sex marriage.

BEYOND THE HEADLINES
February 7, 2010
Hosted by ABC7's Cheryl Jennings

This week's episode of "Beyond the Headlines" looks at some stories of survival coming out of the devastating Haiti earthquake. We'll also learn about different steps "you" can take, not "if," but "when" a similar earthquake strikes here in the Bay Area.

Let's get started. A Marin County mother was reunited with her family earlier this month. They survived the earthquake in Haiti together. But then Myriam Kaplan-Pasternak said goodbye to her husband and daughters and stayed behind.

The Pasternaks returned to the Bay Area with photos and videos of their experience. One particular sermon by Father Tristan has been inspiring for the locals, and the Pasternaks believe it may help Haitians living in the U.S. More photos and videos are viewable on the Pasternak's website, as well as upcoming fundraisers to provide relief to the survivors of the earthquake.

The danger of a similar-sized earthquake striking the Bay Area is very high. The American Red Cross Bay Area Chapter has some tips on how to prepare for a disaster.

Make a Plan: Have an out-of area emergency contact for the entire family. Designate 2 meeting locations.

Build a Kit: Make sure you have enough food and water for a minimum of 72 hours (3 days). A disaster kit could also include basic first aid supplies, lifesaving medication, flashlight, radio, sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and cash in small denominations.

Get Involved: Learn to "duck, cover, and hold on." Take basic first aid training and CPR. We offer an expanded free, hour-long course.