Family Preparedness

Family Preparedness

Important Safety Recommendations For You and Your Family​

  • Create a family disaster plan which you review and practice with all family members regularly. This should include a family communications plan   with a list of phone numbers available to all family members (both in-town and out-of-town).
  • Teach all family members to turn off gas, water, and electricity for the main source.
  • Teach children how and when to call 911 for help.
  • Keep a 3-4 day supply of food, bottled water, and an extra month's supply of prescription medications on hand at all times.
  • Keep a battery operated radio/TV and plenty of batteries (make sure batteries are not out of date).
  • Keep extra keys for your car and home in a safe place.
  • Keep an extra pair of eyeglasses in a safe area.
  • Keep a list of your credit cards and other banking account numbers in a safe place.
  • Keep important papers in a waterproof/fireproof container.
  • Keep a up-to-date list and pictures of household contents for insurance purposes.
  • Make sure your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector are working.
  • Increase cash on hand during potential emergency conditions.
  • Keep your car's gasoline tank half full during potentially bad weather.
  • Keep an up-to-date list of telephone numbers on hand.
  • Choose an out-of-state relative or friends to call in case of family separation.
  • Have an alternative heating source for your home.
  • Never mix or store household chemicals in your emergency supply kit.
  • Pick two locations to meet outside of your home if you have to evacuate.
  • Have a plan for the care of your pets.
  • Monitor your radio and television for important information and instructions.
  • Your plan should include a list of emergency shelters and their locations, including the primary emergency shelter for your neighborhood. If you own pets, be certain to include pet-friendly shelters on the list.
  • Prepare to shelter in place if directed. With this in mind, you should have guidelines on how to remain safe in your home during a disaster.

​Make a Family Emergency Kit

  • Water for 3 days (one gallon/person/day) -
  • Non-perishable food for 3 days
  • Manual can opener
  • Battery-powered radio + extra batteries
  • First Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Filter mask (or cotton t-shirt)
  • Flashlight + extra batteries
  • Emergency blanket
  • Cell phone charger
  • Moist towelettes
  • Wrench or pliers
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Duct tape
  • Garbage bags
  • Plastic ties
  • Work gloves
  • Important information
    • Family communication plan
    • Important documents
    • Emergency numbers
  • Unique family needs
    • Prescription medications
    • Infant formula
    • Diapers
    • Etc.