Create an Emergency Plan
q Meet with household members and discuss the dangers of fire, severe weather, earthquakes, and other emergencies.
q Discuss how to respond to each disaster that could occur.
q Discuss what to do about power outages and personal injuries.
q Draw a floor plan of your home. Mark two escape routes from each room.
q Learn how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity at main switches.
q Post emergency telephone numbers near telephones.
q Teach children how and when to call 911, police, and fire.
q Instruct household members to turn on the radio for emergency information.
q Pick one out-of-state and one local friend or relative for family members to call if separated by disaster (it is often easier to call out-of-state than within the affected area).
q Teach children how to make long distance telephone calls.
q Pick two meeting places, one near your home in case of a fire, one outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home after a disaster.
q Keep family records in a water-and fireproof container.
Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit
Gather supplies you might need in an emergency. Store them in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or duffel bag. Include:
q A supply of water (one gallon per person per day). Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Identify the storage date and replace every six months.
q A supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food and a non-electric can opener.
q A change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.
q Blankets or sleeping bags.
q A first aid kit and prescription medications.
q An extra pair of glasses.
q A battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries.
q Credit cards and cash.
q An extra set of car keys.
q A list of family physicians.
q A list of important family information; the style and serial number of medical devices, such as pacemakers.
q Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.
For more preparedness information go to www.ready.gov
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