Personal Preparedness

Even with the extensive resources in place for dealing with an emergency, each family should have a plan for dealing with an incident.   This plan should include several things that are listed below, as well as the ability to be self-sufficient for the first 72 hours following an emergency or disaster.

1. Create an Emergency Communications Plan: Your family should maintain an out of town contact to check in with in the event of an incident.
2. Establish a Meeting Place: Having a predetermined location will prevent confusion and save precious time if your home should become affected by an emergency.
3. Assemble an Emergency Kit: If you are asked to evacuate to your home or shelter and to seal yourself in, having essential supplies will be crucial.  This should be easy to carry and located in a convenient location for quick access.
   Please check the emergency supply checklist for items to include.

Your family should have a checklist of these essentials inside your kit so that it can be double checked to make sure it is complete.  It is a good idea that any essential documents such as insurance policies or wills, should be kept in a safe outside your home or in a safety deposit box.  Children should perhaps have a backpack with some toys, snacks or activities for these situations.