Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services--water, gas, electricity or telephones--were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away.

Find Out What Could Happen to You

• Contact your emergency management office before a disaster occurs--be prepared to take notes.
• Ask what types of disasters are most likely to happen ? including natural and those related to terrorism. Request information on how to prepare for each.
• Learn about your community's warning signals: what they sound like and what you should do when you hear them.
• Ask about animal care after a disaster . Animals are not allowed inside emergency shelters because of health regulations.
• Find out how to help elderly or disabled person, if needed.
• Find out about the disaster plans at your workplace, your children's school or day care center, and other places where your family spends time.
  

Complete This Checklist

• Purchase a NOAA 'All Hazards' Radio for emergency alerts
• Post emergency telephone numbers by phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.).
• Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1
• Show each family member how and when to turn off the utilities (water, gas, and electricity)
• Get training for each family member on how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type), and show them where it's kept.
• Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
• Stock emergency supplies and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit.
• Take a first aid and CPR class.
• Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
• Find the safe places in your home for each type of disaster and learn shelter-in-place procedures.
• Practice and Maintain Your Plan
• Quiz your kids every six months or so.
• Conduct fire and emergency evacuations.
• Replace stored water and stored food every six months.
• Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.