DISASTER PREPAREDNESS GUIDE

DISASTER CAN STRIKE QUICKLY, ARE YOU PREPARED?

TYPES OF EMERGENCIES

We are all at risk for both Natural and man-made disasters, some of which are listed below;

·        Heavy Rains/Flooding

·        Extreme Cold/Ice

·        Heavy Winds/Downed Trees

·        Fires

·        Natural Gas Leaks

·        Acts of Violence

·        Acts of Terror

What types of risks or consequences do these present?

It is essential that you have consequence contingency plans in place for proper and intelligent reaction to emergencies.

In the home, have a safety checklist;

·        Working Smoke Detectors – fresh batteries, tested weekly?

·        Home Fire Escape Plan – 2 ways out, practiced?

·        Periodic Hazard Inspections – identify and remove?

·        Spare flashlights, batteries, blankets, clothes?

·        Utilities Control – Can your family shut off the electric, gas & water if they had to?

·        Bottled Water – drinking and bathing available

·        Medications and Special Needs List available

·        Have you taken a Fire Extinguisher Training Class?

·        Have the adults taken a course in Basic First Aid and CPR?

·        Have the older children taken a baby-sitter’s class?

These are examples of steps that you can take to increase your self-confidence in your ability to react promptly and efficiently during a time of emergency.

At work, things to think about;

·        Does your employer have an evacuation plan in place?

·        Do you know the building, exits, alternative means of egress?

·        If separated from your family, do you have a contact person that your family can reach out to?

·        Do you have a meeting place, if you cannot get back to your home?

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

It is a good idea to have an emergency supplies kit prepared and stored in your home.  Plan to meet your needs for at least three days.  Assemble a disaster kit with items you may need in an evacuation.  Store these supplies in sturdy, easy to carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags or covered storage bins.

Include:

·        A three-day supply of water-one gallon. Per person. Per day and food that won’t spoil.

·        One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person

·        A first-aid kit that includes your family’s prescription medication.

·        Emergency tools including a battery powered radio, flashlighy and plenty of extra batteries.

·        An extra pair of eyeglasses for members who wear them.

·        Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller kit in the truck of your car.

EVACUATION

Evacuate immediately if told to do so...