Be Informed and Be Prepared

The third step you need to take is to be informed. Depending on where you live there are going to be different types of emergency situations.

You may live in an area that is more prone to tornadoes, earthquakes or flooding. So you need to learn the precautions to take. Depending on the type of disaster and where you live, you will need to know the appropriate way to respond to them.



To help you and your family to be informed, you should learn more about the disaster plans that have been established for the area you live in. Contact your state and local emergency management agency for detailed emergency information.

Do you know what it means to Shelter-in-Place?

• Shelter-in-place means to take shelter immediately at the place you are at when an emergency happens, whether it be at home, school or at work.
  
  
• Shelter-in-place could also mean "seal the room" to prevent outside contaminated air from coming in. Local authorities may give you instructions about chemical or radiological contaminants that have been released into the air.
  
  
• Stay informed and listen to your local radio or television station to take steps to protect your family.

How does your family prepare?

At Home

• Find the best location in your house for your shelter room. The room with the fewest doors and windows is your best choice, preferably with a water supply or connected to a bathroom.
  
  
• Your family emergency plan should be developed so that all members know what to do. Practice it regularly.
  
  
• Have a disaster survival kit, that includes survival food and water.

At Work

• Make sure that all of the employees are aware of the emergency plan.
  
  
• Employees should be assigned specific duties in the event of an emergency.
  
  
• Have an office survival kit, and check it regularly. Flashlights and radios should have their batteries checked on a regular basis.

In general

• Learn how to use a Defibrillator (AED)
  
• Learn CPR

How will you know when to Shelter-in-place?

When you hear local emergency warning procedures that might include:

• Automated system that sends out recorded messages
  
  
• Emergency broadcast on radio or television
  
  
• Warning sirens or horns
  
  
• Local radio and television news
  
  
• Vehicles equipped with a public address system

This video explains the importance of being prepared.






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