D15W Get Ready!
Helping to prepare individuals and families for an emergency
Helping to prepare individuals and families for an emergency
Your preparedness for a disaster can help reduce property damage and human suffering. This information will help you develop a plan with your loved ones and others which will enable you to survive a variety of disasterous situations. At least once a year, have a meeting with your fmaily to discuss and update your plan.
1. Locate important records of belongings to prove ownership and to establish value for insurance claims. List date of purchases, costs, serial and model numbers, and other needed information. Keep one copy at home and another in a safe area outside of the home. Consider storing the documnets at home in a fire/water proof container.
2. Have a portrait of all family members, writing a complete description on the back of each photo including height, weight, color of hair and eyes, and other physical characteristics.
3. Learn first aid and CPR (see the First Aid category.)
4. All family members should know the tools required and how to shut off utilities - gas, water, and electricity. All responsible famliy members should know how to do this. The tools required to shut off utilities should be readily available.
5. Prepare a 72 hour kit
6. Plan Ahead, including how to evacuate and reunite as a family at a pre-determined location (one for close to home and one for a distance away). Learn the emergency plans of children's schools, care centers, work places, clubs, churches, community.
7. With a video camera, photo or video the contents of your home. This can also help with insurance purposes.
8. Know the location of emergency supplies:
9. Hold regular practice drills
10. Have current medical procedures and prescriptions written and posted in a conspicuous location
Here is a great link to help your family create a plan: Red Cross: Make a Plan