Where will your family be when disaster strikes?

They could be anywhere - At work At school Or in the car.

How will you find each other?

Will you know if your children are safe?

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. Families can - and do - cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Follow the steps listed in this booklet to create your Family's Disaster Plan. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.
CHECKLIST

The next time disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. Prepare now for a sudden emergency. Learn how to protect yourself and cope with disaster by planning ahead. The checklist will help you get started. Discuss these ideas with your family, then prepare an emergency plan. Post the plan where everyone will see it - on the refrigerator or bulletin board. For additional information about how to prepare for hazards in your community, contact your local emergency preparedness office and American Red Cross chapter. Emergency Checklist

 

IF DISASTER STRIKES

 

Remain calm and patient.
Put your plan into action.

 

Check for injuries
Give First Aid and get help for seriously injured people.

 

Listen to your battery powered radio for news and instructions.
Evacuate, if advised to do so.
Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.

 

Check for damage in your home...
Use flashlights - do not light matches or turn on electrical switches, if you suspect damage.
Check for fires, fire hazards and other household hazards.
Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows and get everyone outside quickly.
Shut off any other damaged utilities.
Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids immediately.

 

REMEMBER to...
Confine or secure pets.
Call your family contact - do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
Check on your neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons.
Make sure you have an adequate water supply in case service is cut off.
Stay away from downed power lines.