Emergency Disaster Procedures

Disasters come in many forms. Earthquake, tornado, flood, hurricane, and even terrorist attack are some of the disasters that create emergency situations. According to the American Red Cross, one of the most common and devastating disasters is a house fire. Knowing what to do if a disaster hits your home can mean the difference between survival and death.

Plan Ahead

• Keeping emergency supplies in a backpack makes them portable.

  According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), it is crucial to have a well-developed disaster plan in place. Determine how your family will reunite if disaster strikes while the family is separated at work and school. If anyone in the family needs extra help, such as an elderly family member or a disabled person, include a way to get him to a shelter if needed. Create a disaster kit with a 3-day supply of food and water for each family member. Also include necessary medications, first aid supplies and hygiene items such as toilet paper and soap. Keep a kit in each vehicle, as well. If you live in an area prone to natural disasters that might disrupt public services, also keep a minimum two-week supply of food and water in your home.

Safety

• Fires are one of the most common disasters.

  The first thing to do during a disaster is to ensure your safety. The specific procedures you follow will depend on exactly what has happened. If authorities suggest evacuation, do so immediately. Avoid obviously hazardous situations such as downed wires and damaged structures. You may need to turn off your home's gas line, shut off the stove, and shut off water lines if there is a possibility of broken pipes. A small fire can be put out with a fire extinguisher, but if it continues to burn do not remain in the area. If you leave a building which is on fire do not return for any reason.

Connect with Family

• Have a list of contact numbers on hand, including cell phone numbers.

  The Red Cross suggests that you make an emergency contact card for each member of the family and post contact information in your home. The information you post should include phone numbers for each member of the family, including cell phone, work phone, or school phone numbers. Also include the phone number of a friend or relative outside of your immediate area, as it may be easier to call outside the area in the event of a disaster. Follow the link to the Red Cross emergency contact card in the resources section of this article for a form you can print out and post in your home.