IF DISASTER STRIKES
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. Create a family disaster plan. Knowing what to do is your best
protection and responsibility.
Emergency Supplies - Keep enough supplies in your home to
meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit with items you
may need in an evacuation.
Utilities - Locate the main electric fuse box, water
service main and natural gas main. Learn how and when to turn these utilities off. Teach
all responsible family members. Keep necessary tools near gas and water shut-off valves.
Home Hazard Hunt - During a disaster, ordinary objects in
your home can cause injury or damage. Anything that can move, fall, break or cause a fire
is a home hazard. For example, a hot water heater or a bookshelf can fall. Inspect your
home at least once a year and fix potential hazards.
Evacuation - Evacuate immediately if told to do so: -
Listen to your battery-powered radio and follow the instructions of local emergency
officials. Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes. Take your Disaster Supplies Kit.
Lock your home. Use travel routes specified by local authorities - don't use shortcuts
because certain areas may be impassable or dangerous.
4 STEPS TO SAFETY
1 - Find out what could happen to you - Contact your local
Office of Emergency Management or American Red Cross Chapter.
2 - Create a Disaster Plan - Meet with your family and
discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather
and hazardous materials to children. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a
team.
3 - Complete This Checklist -
| __Post telephone numbers (fire, police, etc) |
__Install smoke detectors |
| __Teach children how and when to use 911 |
__Conduct a home hazard hunt |
| __Show family how and when to turn off utilities |
__Stock Disaster Supplies Kit |
| __Check for adequate insurance coverage |
__Learn CPR and first aid |
| __Teach family the use of fire extinguishers |
__Determine best escape routes |
| __Find safe spots in your home for each type of
disaster |
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4 - Practice and Maintain Your Plan
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