Create a Disaster Plan

·         Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.

·         Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case. Discuss what to do in an evacuation.

·         Pick two places to meet:

1)     Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.

2)     Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home.

·         Ask an out-of-state friend to be your “family contact.” After a disaster, it’s often easier to call long distance.

Other family members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your contact’s phone number.

Practice Every Six Months

·         Quiz your kids every six months so they remember what to do.

·         Test and practice your plan. Year Drill Date.

·         Replace stored water and food every six months.

·         Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions.

·         Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries as needed.