1) Find out what disasters could happen and prepare.
• Know what types of disasters are most likely to happen in the area.
• Find out about the disaster plan at your workplace, your children’s school and other relevant places.
2) Create a disaster plan.
• Meet with all the people in your household and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Also explain what to do in each type of disaster.
• Pick two places to meet, one right outside your home in case of fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home.
3) Put your plan into action.
• Post emergency telephone numbers by phones.
• Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local emergency medical services.
• Find safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.
4) Practice and maintain your plan.
• Review your plan every six months.
• Conduct fire and evacuation drills.
• Test smoke detectors monthly. Change the batteries every six months.
Source: Office of Emergency Preparedness
