ARE YOU PREPARED???
The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has provided the “Be Smart, Be Responsible, Be Prepared, Be Ready program” with the help of First Lady of California, Maria Shriver-Swartzenegger launching the program.
1. Identify your risk - What are the hazards where you live or work? Find out what natural or human-caused disasters pose a risk for you. Do you live near a flood plain, an earthquake fault or in a high fire danger area? Are you prepared for an unexpected human-made disaster that can strike any time? Does your neighborhood or community have a disaster plan?
2. Create a family disaster plan – Your family needs a plan that tells everyone:
a. Where to meet if you have to evacuate.
b. Who you identified as an out-of-state “family contact”.
c. How to get emergency information in your community.
d. How to take care of your family pets.
3. Practice your disaster plan – When you meet with your family and have written your plan ---practice it. Start by having family members meet at a designated spot outside your home—like you would after a fire or after earthquake shaking stops. Know how to respond in the event of any disaster, whether to stay indoors or whether to evacuate your neighborhood by car. If your family needs to evacuate, know the proper evacuation procedures and routes as determined by your local O.E.S. office. 4. Build a disaster supply kit for your home and car – If you are stranded in your car or have to be self-sufficient at home until help arrives, you need to have a disaster kit with you.
5. Prepare your children – Talk to your kids about what the risks are and what your family will do if disaster strikes.
6. Don’t forget those with special needs – Infants, seniors and those with special needs must not be forgotten.
7. Eliminate hazards in your home and the workplace – You must secure the contents of your home or office to reduce hazards, especially during shaking from an earthquake or an explosion.
8. Understand post 9-11 risks – Disaster preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.
9. Get involved, volunteer, bear responsibility – Donate blood, join a community emergency response team (CERT), educate your neighbor, or volunteer with your local American Red Cross.
For more information: call the O.E.S. Office of Public Information at (916) 845-8400.
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