Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Create an Emergency Plan
Assemble an emergency kit from the items listed.
Choose an out-of-town contact for communication.
Provide cell phones, phone cards or coins to all family members to facilitate communication during disasters.
Teach all family members how to send text messages.
Subscribe to alert services --- provided by local authorities or media outlets --- that send early warning text messages to your phone.
When Disaster Strikes
Listen to local media because evacuations may be issued by government entities. Complacency and failure to act can be disastrous. If staying is an option, choose a space that will best shelter you from the disaster, like a basement, a sealed room, or an interior room.
Contact your out-of-town emergency contact and relate your plan.
Turn off appliances before evacuating. If leaving a pet, don't tie it up or cage it. Be sure the pet is provided with food or water.
Fill your gas tank.
Load your emergency kit into your vehicle.
Choose a destination out of harm's way and go there. Many areas provide a community shelter for residents forced to evacuate.
Return Home After the Disaster
Make safety your first priority when returning home.
Check for potential hazards. For example, do not enter a home that smells of natural gas.
Inspect the home for structural damage. If found, do not enter the home.
Wash frequently and wear protective gear to keep you from contaminants. Tend to all wounds immediately.
Take photos of all damaged property, then contact your insurance agent who will help you file any claims.