When a major disaster occurs, a person’s life can change in an instant. Here are some precautions to take to prepare your family, including elderly loved ones, for a disaster.
Learn About Potential Threats
Learn what disasters or emergencies may occur in your area. These can include those that affect only your family, to those affecting the entire community.
Plan Escape Routes
Identify two ways to escape from every room. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.
Establish a Communication Plan
Make a plan for how you will contact family members if they are not present.
Make copies of important documents
Items to consider are: passport, drivers license, social security and insurance cards, wills, deeds, financial statements, etc. Als, have emergency contact cards for you and your family.
Plan for Pets
Don’t forget to include food and water for animals
Make an Emergency Kit
Basic items to consider:
3 day supply of non-perishable food and water
Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
First-Aid Kit
Sanitation and hygiene items
Manual can opener
Matches in a waterproof container
Extra clothing and blankets
Photocopies of credit and identification cards
Cash and coins
Whistle
Extra set of house and car keys
Medication, contact lens solutions, etc.
Consider your own special needs. Maintain your kit and store in a cool dry place. Update as needed.
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