Disaster Response Commission
Gathering information
Find out what types of disasters Occur in your area. Learn your communities warning signals and evacuation plans. This information can be gathered from the National Weather Service, The Office of Emergency Management, and non-profit organizations like the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.
Create a plan with your family
Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick to places to meet : A place outside your home for an emergency like a fire, and a place outside your neighborhood in case you can not return home. Pick an out of state friend as your “Family Check In Contact” in case the family gets separated. Discuss plans for your family in case you are ordered to evacuate the area.
Implement your plan
Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone. Install smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your home if you don’t already have them. Inspect your home for hazards that can be corrected. Have your family learn basic safety measures such as First Aid, CPR, how to turn off water, gas and electricity coming into the house, and how to use a fire extinguisher. Teach your children how and when to call 911 or your emergency local services. Keep enough supplies in your home to survive at least three days. Assemble a disaster kit with items you may need if you have to evacuate.
Practice your plan
Ask questions to make sure family members remember meeting places, phone numbers and safety rules. Conduct drills. Check Smoke detectors monthly and change batteries twice a year. Test and charge fire extinguishers according to manufacturers instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.