Preparing for a Disaster
Preparing before something happens reduces anxiety and losses that accompany disasters. Much like a fire drill, knowing what to do in an emergency makes the situation a little less frightening for everyone.
We prepare so we can be ready. Everyone’s needs are unique. An emergency that is a “set back” for one might be catastrophic for another.
Rather than preparing only for a snowstorm or tornado, being prepared means identifying ways that emergencies can threaten your safety and identify what to do when the emergency occurs.
It's also important to consider what else may be going on around you, like the current COVID-19 pandemic. Remember to include masks and hand sanitizer in your disaster kit.
Know Your Home Escape Plan
There may be any number of reasons that you need a “home escape plan.” Get your entire family involved in making and practicing the plan. Choose an outside meeting place, like a neighbor's house, a street light or a mailbox.
Have a Family Communication Plan
Choose an emergency contact person outside your area because it may be easier to call long distance than locally after a local/regional disaster. Take a minute now to call or email an out-of-town friend or family member to ask him or her to be your family’s designated contact in the event of an emergency.
Be sure to share the contact’s phone number with everyone in the family. During an emergency, you can call your contact who can share with other family members where you are, how you are doing, and how to get in contact with you.
Know how you will connect. Don’t lose the important preparedness steps you’ve taken. Download the emergency plan cards. Fill them out and give one to each member of your family to carry with them. You can also download a simple Ready PA
Family Emergency Plan card.
