October 26, 2006

Nine ways you can be prepared for a disaster

1—Identify your risk. Find out what natural or human-caused disasters pose a risk to you. Call the Office of Emergency Services or the local chapter of the American Red Cross and get informed. Check with your insurance company to see if your home is in a high-risk area for fire, flood or earthquakes. Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date on an annual basis.

2—Create a family plan. Your family needs a plan that tells everyone where to meet if you have to evacuate [outside your home and also a backup meeting place in your neighborhood]. Make sure your children’s schools and day-care providers or caregivers have a disaster plan. Identify an out-of-state friend to be your “family contact” for everyone to check in with—it is often easier to call long-distance following a disaster. Know your area’s emergency alerting radio station and have a portable radio. Keep a touch-tone phone that does not require plugging into an electric outlet. If you are in your car, find a safe place to pull over, stay in your car and turn on the radio for information about where to go and what to do. Take care of your family pets—store food and water for them in your supply kit, keep their tags up to date and call your Office of Emergency Services office to gain information on how and where you can temporary shelter your pets during and after a disaster.

3—Practice your disaster plan. With your written plan, practice it by meeting at a designated spot outside your home. Know how to respond in the event of any disaster and whether to stay indoors or evacuate by car.

4—Build a disaster supply kit for your home and car.

A home disaster supply kit should contain at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for all family members. Replace water every six months and restock food items.

- First-aid kit.

- Battery-powered flashlight and portable radio with extra batteries

- Change of clothing and footwear, one blanket or sleeping bag for each family member.

- Extra set of car keys and a credit card and cash.

- Extra medications.

- Sanitation supplies [soap, cleaning supplies, shampoo, etc.].

- An extra set of prescription glasses

- Keep important family documents in a waterproof container

- Keep all supplies in backpacks, plastic totes or wheeled trash cans. Carry a smaller kit in your car.

5—Prepare your children by talking and practicing a disaster plan.

6—Don’t forget those with special needs. Make sure you have supplies for infants and seniors for three days. Be sure that the assisted living facility where a family member resides has a disaster plan and that you know what it is.

7—Learn CPR and first aid. Contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross for training.

8—Eliminate hazards in your home and workplace. Strap down large electronics, secure cabinet doors, anchor tall furniture and secure overhead objects.

9—Understand post-9/11 risks. In the event of chemical or toxic exposure—or bombs or explosives—do not panic.
If you hear an explosion, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, away from falling items. Exit as soon as possible.

If there is a fire, stay low, cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth and seek a safe escape route away from heat or flames.

If you are trapped in debris, cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing to avoid breathing dust. Whistle to alert rescuers to tap on a pipe or wall. Don’t shout and conserve your energy.

If you think you have been exposed to any chemical or biological substance, contact a physician or medical clinic as soon as possible.

Reprinted in part from California State Alliance.