Disaster Preparedness

Disasters can take many forms – house fires, tsunami, floods, earthquakes –and they can strike anywhere, at any time. Its better to prepare now that to panic later. Use the following guidelines to create a personalized plan for you and your family:

• Discuss the types of disasters (tsunami, hurricane, flood, wildfire, earthquake, etc) that are most likely to occur in your area and the best ways to respond.
• Establish meeting places inside and outside your home, as well as outside the neighborhood.
• Make sure everyone knows when and how to contact each other if separated.
• Make sure everyone knows the contact’s phone number.
• Stock emergency supplies, such as food, water and medications and assemble a disaster supply kit or a “go bag” with sufficient quantities to last for at least 72 hours. Store your supplies in a dry, cool place and be sure to include flashlights, batteries and a radio.
• Learn basic first aid. At the very least, each family member should know CPR, how to help someone who is choking and first aid for severe bleeding and shock.