The next time disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. Learn how to protect yourself and cope with disaster by planning ahead. Discuss these ideas with your family, then prepare an emergency plan. Post the plan where everyone can see it, i.e. on the refrigerator, bulletin board, etc.

The following checklist may help you get started:

• Meet with household members. Discuss with children the dangers of fire, severe weather, earthquakes and other emergencies.
• Discuss how to respond to each disaster that could occur.
• Discuss what to do about power outages and personal injuries.
• Draw a floor plan of your home. Mark two escape routes from each room.
• Learn to turn off water, electricity and gas at main switches.
• Post emergency telephone numbers near telephone.
• Teach children how and when to call 911, or ambulance, police and fire.
• Instruct household members to turn on the radio for emergency information.
• Pick one out-of-province and one local friend or relative for family members to call if separated by disaster. It is often easier to call out-of-province than within the affected areas.
• Teach children how to make long distance telephone calls.
• Pick two meeting places; a place near your home in case of a fire. A place outside your neighbourhood in case you cannot return home after a disaster.
• Take a basic first aid and CPR course.
• Keep family records in a water and fire-proof container.
• Learn about emergency plans for your children's school or day nursery.

Prepare A Disaster Supplies List:

Assembly supplies you might need in an evacuation. Store your supplies in easy to carry containers and be sure to include:

• A sealed supply of water (1 gallon per person per day). Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Identify storage date and replace every six months.
• A supply of non-perishable, packaged or canned food and a non-electric can opener.
• A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• Blankets or sleeping bags.
• A first aid kit and prescription medicines.
• An extra pair of glasses.
• A battery powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries.
• Credit cards and cash.
• An extra set of car keys.
• A list of family physicians.
• A list of important telephone numbers.
• A list of important family information; the style and serial number of medical devices, such as pacemakers.
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.

If You Need To Evacuate:

• Listen to the radio for location of emergency shelters. Follow instructions of local officials.
• Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.
• Take your disaster supply kit.
• Lock your house.
• Use travel routes specified by local officials.

If You Are Sure You Have Time:

• Shut off water, gas and electricity if instructed to do so.
• Let other know when you left and where you are going.
• Make arrangements for pets. Animals may not be allowed in public shelters.

For further information contact Chatham-Kent Public Health Services (519) 352-7270 or e-mail us at CKhealth@chatham-kent.ca