How to Prepare for an Emergency

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Always keep your gas tank more than half full. If there is an emergency evacuation, many gas stations will quickly run out of gas and shut down. Two winters ago, we had major power outages and there was no gas to be found for days. When you see your gas tank hit the half-way mark, consider that time to fill up.
Step 2

Earthquake. Know the basics and practice with your children what to do in case of an earthquake. DROP, COVER and HOLD ON! Drop to the floor, get under something for cover and hold on until the shaking stops. If you live in an area prone to Earthquakes, you should purchase or put together earthquake kits and be sure to secure and fasten all furniture (including your hot water heater) to the wall to keep tall bookcases and dressers from falling over. Keep latches on cabinet doors; keep large, heavy or breakable objects stored on low shelves, if possible in locked cabinets so that those items do not end up crashing down. Install automatic gas shut off and keep heavy mirrors, pictures or shelves away from where people sleep or sit.
Step 3

Fire ladder from one step ahead

Fire Emergencies. Always know where the emergency exits are, keep emergency fire ladders on the upper levels of your home, and never use an elevator. Stay calm and get out of the building as fast as you can. Set up a plan for your family and teach your kids how to get out of the house during a fire and where to meet outside the house. Practice your family fire drill with your kids and maybe even take them to the fire station for a lesson in fire safety if you are unsure of what to do yourself. Keep fire extinguishers in your home and in places that are easy to find and grab in an emergency. Check your smoke detectors regularly and make sure the battery is working. Clear dry brush and grass from around your home that can burn easily. Use flame-retardant shingles on your roof.
Step 4

Life Secure 3 day kit

Hurricane. Listen to the local weather news for hurricanes in your area and stay in touch with your neighbors about evacuation updates. Plan a safe place to meet your family if you are separated. It is a really good idea to designate an out of state relative or friend as a contact so that if you and your loved ones are separated, you can use that contact to know you are both okay. Install window shutters to prevent excess damage to your home. Have a "to-go" emergency bag that you keep stocked and ready to go at all times.
Step 5

Power Outages. Major power outages can be disastrous to some people. If it is cold outside it is absolutely VITAL that you do NOT use your BBQ indoors to keep warm. Families have died from carbon monoxide poisoning during major power outages due to this mistake. Power outages during intense heat and cold conditions can be fatal if you do not pay attention to yourself and those around you. To avoid heat stress, drink 1 gallon of water a day while avoiding alcohol, caffeine and anything else that is dehydrating. Take cold showers or baths; splash cold water on your face , neck and wrists often to cool off. Learn the warning signs of heat stroke and watch for symptoms in yourself or those around you. In cases of extreme cold, you can prepare by knowing the signs of hypothermia, and how to prevent and treat hypothermia. Keep a hand crank flashlight handy and in a place that is easy to grab when everything is suddenly black.
Step 6

In case of any emergency, you should always have a "to-go" bag that you keep stocked and ready to go at all times. Items to include are water, non-perishable food items, hand crank radio and flashlights, copies of prescription and medical supplies (first aid kit), bedding, clothing, copies of important documents like driver’s license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, maps, and other unique family needs. Keep a smaller to-go kit in your car at all times. Your kit should have enough supplies to last for 3 days. You can put together your own 3-day kit using an easy to grab duffel bag or purchase a pre-made 3-day emergency kit. See resources below.
Step 7

Keep copies of important documents in a safe deposit box or with family members who live in another area. Such documents might include birth and marriage certificates, power of attorney, copy of your will, insurance policies and beneficiaries and any other important documentation. If your home is destroyed in a disaster, you will not lose these important documents. You may also want to keep some cash on you and in your deposit box in case you are unable to access your bank account or get to an ATM. Other items you may want to store in a safe place would be sentimental items and some family heirlooms.
Step 8

Learn basic first aid. Enroll in a first aid and CPR course at your local red cross, community center or fire station.