Learn how to prepare for disasters, respond safely, and protect your loved ones. Use this guide to prepare for the Emergency Preparedness Quiz!
1️⃣ The Basics of Emergency Preparedness
- Emergencies can happen anytime. Being prepared reduces panic and saves lives.
- Every household should have an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, a communication strategy, and a designated meeting place.
- Identify potential disasters in your area (hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes).
2️⃣ Building an Emergency Kit
Your emergency kit should contain at least 3 days’ worth of supplies. Key items include:
✔ Water: 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days
✔ Non-perishable food: Canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits
✔ First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic, medications
✔ Flashlights & extra batteries
✔ Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (for weather updates)
✔ Multi-tool & whistle (to signal for help)
✔ Hygiene items & sanitation supplies
✔ Cash in small bills (ATMs and card readers may not work)
✔ Copies of important documents (ID, insurance, medical records, emergency contacts)
✔ Blankets & extra clothing
3️⃣ Emergency Communication Plan
- Cell phone networks may be down in a disaster. Have backup communication options.
- Text messages work better than phone calls in overloaded networks.
- Designate an out-of-town contact for family members to check in with.
- Know emergency alert systems (NOAA weather radios, FEMA alerts, local sirens).
4️⃣ Fire & Home Safety
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.
- Plan and practice home fire escape routes twice a year.
- Know how to use a fire extinguisher (PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
5️⃣ Evacuation & Shelter-in-Place Guidelines
🚗 Evacuating:
✔ Follow official evacuation orders immediately.
✔ Take your emergency kit and essential documents.
✔ Know multiple evacuation routes in case roads are blocked.
✔ Pets need a plan too! Bring pet food, water, and carriers.
🏡 Sheltering-in-Place:
✔ Lock doors & windows and stay inside if there’s an external hazard.
✔ If sheltering from severe weather, stay in an interior room or basement.
✔ In case of a chemical emergency, turn off air systems and seal doors with plastic & tape.
6️⃣ Natural Disaster Safety
🌪 Tornado Safety
✔ Go to a basement or interior room on the lowest level.
✔ Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
✔ If outside, lie flat in a ditch and cover your head.
🌊 Flood Safety
✔ Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters – “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”.
✔ Move to higher ground immediately if water rises.
✔ Stay out of floodwaters – they may contain chemicals, sewage, or downed power lines.
🔥 Wildfire Safety
✔ If in a wildfire-prone area, create a defensible space around your home by clearing dry vegetation.
✔ Have an evacuation plan in case of fire spread.
✔ Close doors, windows, and vents to keep smoke out.
🌎 Earthquake Safety
✔ Drop, Cover, and Hold On during shaking.
✔ Stay indoors – avoid windows, glass, and heavy furniture.
✔ If outside, move away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
🌀 Hurricane Safety
✔ Follow evacuation orders and leave early.
✔ If sheltering in place, stay in a windowless interior room.
✔ Secure outdoor objects and prepare for extended power outages.
7️⃣ First Aid & Medical Preparedness
🚑 Basic First Aid Skills:
✔ Control bleeding with direct pressure and bandages.
✔ Treat burns by cooling with clean water and covering with a sterile dressing.
✔ Perform CPR if someone is unresponsive and not breathing.
✔ Know the signs of stroke and heart attack to call for emergency help quickly.
8️⃣ Emergency Transportation & Road Safety
- Always keep at least half a tank of gas in your car.
- Have a car emergency kit (jumper cables, flashlight, bottled water, blankets).
- If stranded in winter, stay inside your vehicle, run the heater periodically, and keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
9️⃣ Pet & Special Needs Preparedness
🐾 Pet Safety:
✔ Include pet food, water, medication, and ID tags in your emergency kit.
✔ Arrange pet-friendly shelters in case of evacuation.
✔ Never leave pets behind – they may not survive!
🦽 Special Needs Planning:
✔ Medications & medical supplies – Have extra stock if possible.
✔ Identify accessible shelters and transport options.
✔ Register with local emergency agencies if you need assistance in an evacuation.
🔟 Final Emergency Preparedness Tips
✔ Have multiple copies of emergency contacts in your wallet & phone.
✔ Practice “what-if” scenarios with your family.
✔ Stay informed with weather & emergency alerts.
✔ Encourage neighbors and friends to create an emergency plan too!
🚨 Be Ready Before Disaster Strikes!
Now that you’ve studied, take the Emergency Preparedness Quiz and see how much you know! 🚑🔥
