Disaster Preparedness
Develop a Plan
A key to surviving disaster, whether natural or man-made, is planning ahead. Emergency preparedness and response planning should involve all family members, regardless of whether you plan to stay at home or go to a shelter.
Hold a Family Meeting
- Talk about what each family member should do in preparation for and in response to each emergency identified. Individuals should also consider preparation and response to each emergency identified.
- Determine primary and alternate locations where family members can meet if an emergency happens while away from home/work.
- Select a pre-designated place to meet outside if a sudden emergency such as a fire forces you out of the house.
- Identify the safe areas in the home.
- Select someone outside your immediate area to act as a central point of contact for your relatives and friends who may try to call following an emergency or disaster, as you may have limited or no telephone service.
- Plan for child care if parents can not get home.
- Remember pets CAN NOT go to designated shelters, so make alternate plans for your pets.
Assemble an Emergency Kit (Do not wait for an impending storm)
- Prepare Prescriptions and a First Aid Kit.
- Determine special family needs (medication, equipment etc.)
- Include a list of family members’ prescribed medications, giving generic names and prescribed dosage.
- Include a list of doctors and telephone numbers.
- Include a list of special medical devices such as pacemaker/insulin pump, the style, serial number, and other pertinent information.
- Include vital family records such as mortgage papers, medical records, insurance policies, birth certificates, marriage licenses, Will, tax records, and other irreplaceable items.
- Prepare a 1-2 week supply of special medicines or foods required.
- Prepare a 1-2 week supply of non-perishable food and water.
- Remember a non-electric can opener.
- Select a battery powered radio and extra batteries.
- Select a flashlight and extra batteries.
- Collect sleeping bags or blankets.
- Prepare a change of clothing for each family member.
- Prepare adequate toilet articles and waterless hygiene products.
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