How to Prepare for Urban Emergencies

Severe weather, earthquakes and wildfires, along with other natural occurrences, can result in urban emergencies. There are also more extreme emergencies such as the 9-11 crisis in New York City. Prepare for urban emergencies by having a family plan and basic survival items on hand.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Non-perishable food
• Water
• Cash
• Pre-paid phone cards
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight and batteries

1. Look at the kinds of urban emergencies that can affect the area in which you live. Those in coastal communities, for instance, must prepare for hurricanes. Others need to prepare for wildfires, tornadoes and extreme winter storms.
2. Gather together the basics for survival in an emergency supply kit. This includes water for at least three days, non-perishable food for the same period, a first-aid kit, sleeping bags, flashlight and cash.
3. Draw up a family plan for urban emergencies. Have a means of communication and contact, a meeting place and an alternative to a meeting place.
4. Know where local shelters are located. Most counties have emergency plans with pre-designated shelters. Devise an alternative as well, in case the one closest to you is full.
5. Ask about the emergency plans for schools your children attend, and keep your contact information up-to-date.
6. Remember that items such as toilet paper and medications as you prepare. A dust mask to avoid breathing contaminants is a good addition, as is a battery radio.

Tips & Warnings

• The actual kit you build for urban emergencies depends on the potential threats to your area. Local emergency agencies usually have a list of items you should have on hand.
• Remember something to occupy children during periods away from home.
• Designate a place to go well away from the urban area. Set up an arrangement in advance with someone who can take you in for a period of time.
• Plan more than one emergency route. Evacuation routes can get quickly crowded or blocked.
• Weather-related urban emergencies are the most common, but you can also prepare for other kinds in much the same manner.

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