Disaster Preparedness

Individual, Family & Home Planning Guide

If a major earthquake or other disaster struck in your area today, you might be without direct assistance for at least 72 hours. Are you prepared to be self-sufficient? Is your family?

Families can and do cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.

Individual & Family Preparedness

• Know the safe areas in each room (under sturdy tables, desks, or against inside walls)
• Know the danger spots in each room (windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces, and tall furniture)
• Keep a list of emergency telephone numbers
• Pick two places to meet - right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire; and outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home or are asked to leave your neighborhood
• Choose an out-of-state relative or friend whom family members can call to report their whereabouts and condition

Home Preparedness

• Install smoke alarms on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms
• Know how to use your fire extinguisher and show family members where extinguishers are kept
• Teach all responsible family members how and when to turn off the water, gas, and electricity at the main switches or valves
• Secure your water heater and any appliances that could move enough to rupture utility lines
• Plan how to take care of your animals
• Discuss what to do if authorities ask you to evacuate
• Be familiar with escape routes