Step one - Be informed
To prepare for an emergency, take time to find out:
- where and how to turn off water, gas and
electricity supplies in your home
- the emergency procedures for your children
at school
- the emergency procedures at your
workplace
- how your family will stay in contact
in the event of an emergency
- if any elderly or vulnerable neighbours might
need your help
- how to tune in to your local radio
station.
Step two - Be prepared
Make an emergency grab-bag of things you could
need. This might include:
- a list of useful phone numbers, such as your
doctor's and close relatives'
- home and car keys
- toiletries, sanitary supplies and any
regularly prescribed medication
- a battery radio, with spare
batteries
- a torch with spare batteries,
candles and matches
- a first aid kit
- your mobile phone
- cash and credit cards
- spare clothes and
blankets
- bottled water, ready-to-eat food (eg tinned
food) and a bottle/tin opener, in case you have to remain in your
home for several days
Step three - Prepare together
Remember - involve the whole family! If you have young children,
there are a few things you can do to make sure they are prepared
too. Check that children:
- know their first and last name
- know their full address
- can say and dial their home phone number
- know who to contact in an emergency