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.
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.
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.
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.
