Prepare for an Emergency

Disasters are never planned, but they will happen. They are inevitable. Being prepared is the only thing you can do. Having proper supplies and a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in your survival. Readiness will also reduce fear, anxiety, and potential losses. Prepare today...for any kind of tomorrow.

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TAKE ACTION TODAY

1. Develop a family communication plan by selecting a person outside your local area for everyone to call in case of an emergency. Carry it in your wallet.
2. Ensure every member of your family knows the phone number and has coins or a prepaid phone card for calling the emergency contact. Cell phones often get jammed due to high call volume during disasters.
3. Designate a primary and secondary meeting location.
4. Create an emergency supply kit with a 3-day supply of the basic items for each person. Check and rotate supplies every 6 months. Some items to include: fresh water, food, a battery-powered or hand crank radio, extra batteries, first aid, moist towelettes, garbage bags, a flashlight, a whistle, dust masks, tools, a wrench or pliers, a can opener, local maps, and cash.
5. Prepare a plan for your pets as well.

FACTS

• On average, 1,300 tornadoes are reported annually in the U.S.
• The average twister path is 660 feet wide and can be as long as 50 miles.
• 40 states are considered at risk of an earthquake.
• More deaths occur due to extreme heat and cold than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined.
• Because of contamination, clean water is harder to find than food after a flood.
• A tropical storm becomes a hurricane when the speed of its winds reaches 74 mph.
• 91% of people surveyed agree that it is important to be prepared for emergencies, but only 55% said that they had taken any steps to prepare.
• September 11, 2001, will always remind us of the reality of terrorist attacks and the damage they can cause.