Plan ahead before a disaster strikes

Write down the following information and keep with you:

Family (list information below for each member of household)

• Name, date of birth, race and sex.
  
• Special needs (ex. diabetic requires insulin; hearing impaired, etc.)
  
• Identifying marks (ex. Birthmarks, scars, tattoos, etc.)

Common family locations

• List common places where you and your family spend the majority of your time such as work, school, daycare.
• Location name, address and phone number of each place listed.
  

Family Pets (Your pets are part of your family, so take time to list their information)

• List name, type of pet, gender, age, veterinarian contact information & brief description of pet.
  

Emergency Meeting Places (Should you and your family be separated, you need to designate a few places to meet)

• Meeting places –parks, businesses, neighbors’ homes, churches, schools.
  
• List at least 3 meeting places along with their addresses, phone numbers.
  

Emergency Numbers ( Always dial 911 first if possible, but also list other important numbers for your household and don’t rely on memory or your cell phone during a disaster)

• Next of kin contact numbers and address.
  
• Local electric and/or gas company.
  
• Local phone company.
  
• Poison Control.
  
• Local water department.

Build an emergency supply kit

Your emergency kit should be updated each year and out of date supplies should be replaced as necessary.

• Suggested supplies for your kit include the water, food, first aid, etc… that should be packed in an airtight container that is kept in an easily accessible place.
  
• Water – you should have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days.
  
• Food – you should pack at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for your family.
  
• Radio – battery-powered or hand crank radio & a NOAA Weather Alert Radio with extra batteries.
  
• First aid kit.
  
• Whistle – to signal for help.
  
• Dust Mask for each family member.
  
• Misc. tools – wrench, pliers, screw drivers, hammer.
  
• Manual can opener.
  
• Local Map of your town/city.
  
• Cash – ATMs might be unavailable for several days during a disaster.
  

Don’t forget about special needs of family members

• Medications, special dietary requirements and medical equipment.
  
• Formula, diapers and bottles.
  
• Pet Food, leash and medications.