Preparation for a Disaster

Stockpiling Supplies

• Stocking your home with essential supplies is a good first step in preparing for a disaster. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping a seven-day supply of canned and packaged food on hand. You will also need a seven-day supply of bottled water in case the taps in your home stop working. If disaster strikes, electricity may not be available to run household appliances, such as can openers or dishwashers. Keeping paper products and a manual can opener with your emergency supplies can make life easier if your electricity goes out. Battery-powered lights and flashlights are an important addition to your stockpile and are a safer choice than candles.

  In case of an emergency, you may not be able to travel to a pharmacy to pick up prescriptions. Stocking several days' worth of prescription and common over-the-counter medications with your supplies can alleviate worry when you are faced with an emergency situation. Other important supplies to have on hand include: diapers, toilet paper, soap, towels, extra cash, extra car keys, feminine hygiene supplies, comb, copies of insurance policies and bank account numbers, sleeping bags, moist wipes, pillows, a battery-operated cell phone charger, blankets, a change of clothing for every family member, a battery-powered radio, flares, a first-aid kit, and extra eyeglasses or contacts. If you have pets, be sure to include a supply of food, bowls, litter and pet medications with your emergency supplies.

Evacuation Planning

• Choose a primary and secondary evacuation route for your family, and keep extra maps in your cars and with your emergency supplies. Select a place to meet if you become separated from your family, and make sure that everyone knows that location. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends choosing an out-of-town relative or friend as your family's emergency contact. If family members are separated and can't get to the emergency meeting place, they can check in with the emergency contact.

  Ask your children's day care center and schools for information about their evacuation plans. Find out where children will be taken in case of emergency and how parents will be notified.

Your Home and Car

• Make sure that everyone in your home knows several escape routes in the event that they are not able to leave your home by the front or back door. Consider buying collapsible ladders for second-floor rooms. Show family members how to turn off water, electricity and gas services if necessary. If flooding or gas leaks occur, turning off these services may be necessary. Place flashlights and tools near turn-off valves. Keep a small supply of food, water and blankets in your car. If you aren't able to return to your home to get your emergency supplies, at least you will have some basic items in your car.