Emergency Response

Are You Ready to Respond in an Emergency?

Emergency Preparedness Checklist
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Hazardous Materials (Chemicals)

How to respond to an emergency...

If you are directed to evacuate: 

• Move to a place designated by public officials -- do not delay!

• Follow recommended evacuation routes only -- do not drive close to the facility or call them for information.

• Take essential items your family will need for a few days, such as medications, eyeglasses, money and other personal hygiene items. If you are instructed to "Shelter-in-Place"

  1. Move inside immediately.

  2. Turn on the radio or television for information.

  3. Close all windows and doors.

  4. Turn off ventilation systems (furnace, attic fan, a/c).

  5. Go into and seal a room. 

Severe Weather (Tornadoes, Winter Storms)

Spring Weather Safety Tips:

1. Move to basement, cellar or underground shelter area.

2. If underground shelter is not available, move to interior area of lowest level (hallway, bathroom, or closet). Remember - the more walls between you and the outside, the better. Avoid windows and outside walls and doors.

3. If in a mobile home, move to the designated shelter area or a prearranged shelter. 

4. If in a car, pull off the road and seek shelter in a low, narrow area. Lie flat on your stomach and cover your head and neck with your arms. Be aware of rising water.

5. Be familiar with designated shelters when you are in public buildings.

Winter Weather Safety Tips:

1. Never overexert yourself by shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car, or walking in deep snow.

2. Dress appropriately - layering loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing is the best.

3. If you do not have heat, close off unneeded rooms and stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors. Cover windows at night.

4. Never use a gas stove to heat a home without proper ventilation.

5. Know the symptoms of hypothermia (shivering, mental slowness, and numbness) and frostbite (pain, numbness and swelling, with a white, waxy appearance). 

Flooding

Evacuate as directed by local officials. Follow your family plan of where to go and what essential items to take, such as medications, eyeglasses, money, clothing and other personal hygiene items. Do not drive through flooded areas -- the water may be deep, with currents that could wash your car off the roadway.

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last update: 06/11/08
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