September is National Preparedness Month and FEMA is encouraging people to make a family emergency communication plan, which outlines how to contact or meet family members before, during and after a natural disaster.
Before disaster strikes, it’s time to ask yourself: Do you know how your family members are going to get in touch with each other? Do you know where you are going to meet near the house and then farther away if necessary? Is your basic supply kit ready?
Here are FIVE TOP TIPS for being Disaster Aware:
1. BUILD Your BASIC DISASTER SUPPLY KIT including but not limited to: water, food, radio, flashlight, first aid, whistle, dust mask, pliers for turning off utilities, manual can opener, maps, cell phone.
2. LIST all emergency contacts and who you will all contact if you get separated both near and far.
3. PLAN for a quick exit and practice getting to where you will end up.
4. INFORM your family about your plan and where you are keeping the extra supplies so no one raids them along the way.
5. SHARE the importance of this step with family and friends and help loved ones get disaster prepared too!
Your emergency planning should also include what to do with your pets, how to help family members with access and functional needs and how to safely shut off your utilities.
Check out this PSA on being prepared:
For more information on emergency planning for all disasters (hurricanes, floods, pandemics, etc.) see Ready.gov. Be Disaster Aware – Take Action to Prepare!
TheBargainBabe says
Good tips! I’ve started creating both an emergency kit at home (water, food, flashlights, etc) as well as one for the car (snacks, emergency blanket, extra gloves,Hot Hands warmers, flashlight, etc).
Maria Iemma says
I live in NY and God knows we’ve had all kinds of disasters including terrorism. Thank you for the tips and information. We should all be prepared for anything that may happen.