Disasters can occur unexpectedly but being prepared can lessen the effect of damages and the chances of accidents. Developing an emergency plan and creating a kit for your household is the best way to prepare for disasters.
When forming an emergency plan get the entire family or those who live in your home involved. Here is a checklist for things to consider:
- Ensure that contact information for family and loved ones is up to date
- Designate safe spaces where everyone can meet
- Locate emergency shelters in your community
- Assign responsibilities to each member of your household
- Choose an emergency contact person outside of your immediate area
- Create an evacuation plan and practice evacuating your home at least twice a year
- If you have pets, keep a list of pet-friendly hotels and shelters in your neighborhood
- Remind everyone to register with the American Red Cross’ Safe and Well website or call 800-RED-CROSS after a disaster. Enrolling will allow concerned loved ones to know that you are safe, by searching the list.
In addition to having an emergency plan, it is vital that you put together an emergency preparedness kit. A few suggested items to include are:
- Water- at least one gallon per person for each day , lasting two weeks
- Non- perishable food
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Sanitary and personal hygiene Items
- Copies of important documents, such as ID’s, birth certificates, medical information, proof of address and insurance
- Cell phones and chargers
- Extra cash in small bills
- Medications
- Multipurpose tools
- Battery-powered and two-way radios
- Blankets
- Maps
- Emergency contact information cards
- Spare set of house and car keys
If you need assistance in making an emergency plan, City programs such as Ready New York provide ready-made templates, where you can fill in important information. Templates also include resources from utility companies, city and federal emergency departments. Please visit https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/em/downloads/pdf/myemergencyplan_english.pdf to create a plan.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.