Prepare Yourself Before Disaster Strikes

Do you know what to do when an emergency happens?

As part of the National Preparedness Month in September, the Department of Homeland Security is encouraging the public to create an action plan before an emergency occurs. It is important to have a plan in place so that you can better respond to the unexpected.

There are four key things you can do:

(1) stay informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses

(2) make a family emergency plan, 

(3) build an emergency supply kit, and

(4) get involved in your community by taking action to prepare for emergencies.

This brochure from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides detailed information on how to prepare for disasters. You can find the PDF version here and it is also available here in multiple languages including Chinese, Korean, Hindi, and Vietnamese.

In addition, do you know how to get in contact with family members if you are not all together when an emergency happens? Have a family discussion before an emergency happens to determine who would be your point of contact, both in your neighborhood and our of town. It is also important to note that unless you are in danger, send a text to communicate. Texts may have an easier time getting through than phone calls, and you do not want to tie up phone lines needed by emergency workers.

Use this Family Communication Plan to assist you in organizing emergency contacts such as phone numbers and meeting place for your family! You can find the PDF version here.