Disaster Recovery Etiquette
Hurricane Sandy turned millions of people’s lives upside down. But how can we help assist those in need without being intrusive? Modern Manners Guy has 3 tips for disaster recovery etiquette.Â
Richie Frieman
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Due to Hurricane Sandy’s tremendous impact on the east coast (especially my friends in New York and New Jersey), millions of people’s lives have been turned upside down. We all know what has happened, but do we all know what we can do to assist those in need?
For starters, those of us not directly affected by the storm can’t possibly imagine how devastating it was (and continues to be). I live in Baltimore, which took quite a hit, but luckily my family and I were OK. Still, it left me wondering about what I can do to assist those in need, without being too overbearing or intrusive? We may all want help, but it’s difficult to fully engulf ourselves into people’s lives during a tragedy. It’s tough to know what’s appropriate and what’s not.
So with that, here are my 3 tips for proper disaster recovery etiquette:
Tip #1: Help Your Neighbors
One of the most interesting aspects of Hurricane Sandy is that some people were brutally affected while others, literally a house or two down the street, were not. Call it “Grid-Gate.” Those who have been spared have the power, and the obligation, to assist the less fortunate. Whether it’s just letting your neighbors come over and charge their cell phones or laptops for work, do laundry, get a hot meal, or even just relax in a comfortable environment in front of the TV for a few hours, this is an easy way to help them get through a tough time. Â
I understand that you may not want your house to become a retreat for the whole neighborhood or turn into a prime spot for squatters, but since you were so lucky during a disaster, you can stand to sacrifice some time and space for others.Â
Tip #2: Help With the Kids
One thing that sticks out in my mind as a parent is seeing young children affected by this tragedy. Even if you explain it to them, it’s hard for young kids to comprehend what’s happened. So when something like this occurs, offer your assistance with the kids so their parents can attend to necessary issues for recovery.
Invite the kids over to watch TV, take them to school (if it’s open), or better yet, come to their house and help distract them for a bit while mom and dad figure things out. Bringing a little present like a toy doesn’t hurt either. I guarantee that your small gesture will be forever appreciated.
Tip #3: Check in Often
A lot of times, you are not directly in the area of the disaster but know many people who are. And they’re just a phone call away. Assuming they have their phone service back on, it’s a good idea to check in on them, even if it’s just a text to say “Hi, I’m thinking about you.”
A call or a text can say a lot. It shows that you are there for them, and are always available to hear them out. As well, when you do call, always ask what  you can do. This is key. No matter how many times they say, “Thank you but we’re OK…” there will be one time when they finally say, “Well, actually, I could use a gallon of milk…” and that’s when you step up.
To all my friends, family, readers, and listeners who were affected by Hurricane Sandy, I feel for you and wish I there was more that could be done. You are always in our hearts and thoughts.Â
Image courtesy of Getty Images.