TEDex Cabarete Dominican Republic. [Applause] I'm 4 years old and I'm sat on the edge of the wet grass and the rose hedge border of my mom and dad's garden making a delicious mud pie. It's cold, wet, and messy.And I love how it squatchches in between my hands. I feel joyful, peaceful, and curious in this playful present moment. Suddenly, I'm drawn to this log in the corner.So, I crawl over and back further. I turn the log over and I find these strange white hairike threads covering the entire surface. I beg ...

Disaster Preparedness & Awareness - Over 70% of Americans lack an emergency disaster plan, highlighting a significant preparedness gap [3] - Disaster planning is often delayed due to discomfort and denial, making proactive measures crucial [8][9] - Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of disasters, emphasizing the urgency of preparedness [13] Technological Solutions & Community Action - Technology and applications are available to enhance emergency planning efficiency and accessibility [4][5] - Real-time data integration in emergency apps provides instant updates for informed decision-making [6] - Community-based preparedness, including drills and shared plans, fosters resilience and a reliable safety net [12] Education & Future Preparedness - Integrating disaster preparedness into school curricula can equip future generations with essential skills [10] - Student-led initiatives can inspire community-wide preparedness and shared responsibility [11] Actionable Steps for Readiness - Establishing a family emergency plan, assembling a go-bag, registering for local alerts, and conducting home drills are key steps [14] - Preparedness involves proactive planning and organization to ensure safety and accountability [15]