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Step 1
Learn about the local disaster warning signals and what to do when they go off.
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Step 2
Talk with children about what to do in various kinds of emergencies, including fire, tornado, earthquake or other natural disaster.
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Step 3
Designate an out-of-town contact for family members to call in the event you get separated from one another. Make sure everyone in your home knows the contact person's name and number.
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Step 4
Discuss with family members what they should do if they are ever at home during a catastrophic disaster, including how and when to shut off utilities, how to seal up doors and windows and where inside the house to take shelter.
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Step 5
Choose meeting places for family members to gather if you are separated during a home evacuation. You should have two: one near your home and one outside of your neighborhood.
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Step 6
Prepare a disaster supply kit, which should include a first aid kit, battery-operated radio and flashlight with batteries (crank or LED versions would also work well), cash, blankets, extra clothing and personal toiletries. Your local Red Cross can provide you with an exhaustive list of what to keep in your disaster supply kit.
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Step 7
Store important documents in a flame-resistant, waterproof container that is easily portable.
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Step 8
Keep bottled water, non-perishable foods and other necessary supplies stocked. Keep prescription medications filled and accessible.
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Step 9
Make provisions for very young children in your home and anyone who is disabled or elderly. Have contingency plans to ensure that everyone can evacuate safely if necessary.
