Hurricane Season began on June 1 and for many parts of the country, Wildfire Season is now year-round. No one wants to think about disasters, but planning and being prepared for a disaster is critical. Take the steps below to prepare your family including pets for disaster.
CREATE A DISASTER PLAN
Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find. To learn more about creating a disaster plan, visit: https://www.ready.gov/be-informed
PRACTICE E.D.I.T.H (EXIT DRILLS IN THE HOME)
Plan and practice at least two ways to get out of each room (door or window). Make sure windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be properly opened.
ORGANIZE DISASTER SUPPLIES
A disaster supply kit is any pre-assembled group of items that will improve the health and safety of your family during a disaster. Kits can be purchased, or homemade in a variety of styles and sizes. Be sure to include cash and credit cards, change of clothing, medical and pet needs, flashlights, first aid kits, medication, etc.
IDENTIFY HAZARDS AND SECURE MOVABLE ITEMS IN YOUR HOME
Secure your place by identifying hazards and securing movable items to avoid further injury in the event of an earthquake or other potential natural disaster.
MINIMIZE FINANCIAL HARDSHIP
By organizing documents, strengthening your property, and considering insurance, you could potentially minimize the financial impact of a natural disaster.
NEVER DISABLE SMOKE ALARMS
Do not disable smoke alarms while cooking as this could be a deadly mistake. Test batteries monthly, replace batteries in battery powered and hard-wired smoke alarms at least twice a year at daylight savings time.
PLAN FOR SANDBAGS
In case of flooding, sandbags may help divert flood water. Plan for sandbags by visiting your local fire station.
PREPARE FOOD OR WATER
At a minimum, your emergency supply kit should include water for 3-10 days (1 gallon per person per day) and food for 3-10 days (including pet food).
LIST FOR EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Be sure to have an easily accessible list of emergency telephone numbers and contacts for you and your family to reference.
Call 9-1-1
In an EMERGENCY situation for police, fire, or paramedics, call 9-1-1. Be prepared to provide your address of the emergency, the telephone number, and what is happening.
