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Disaster Preparedness

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​On this page, you'll find:

  1. Home Safety Checklist

  2. Disaster Preparedness Kit instructions

  3. Kit Storage Locations

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First things first, start with this home safety checklist:

  • Cordless Window Coverings: Loose cords can strangle children in an instant. Switch out all corded blinds and curtains for cordless versions. If this is cost-prohibitive or not possible, make sure all cords are stored out of children’s reach and without loops or knots.

  • Smoke Detectors: Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms outside every bedroom, on every level of your home (including the basement), and in furnace areas. Buy dual alarms that use long-life lithium batteries. Test your smoke alarms at least once per month to ensure they’re working properly, and replace the batteries every year. Contact your local fire department to see if there is a free detector program.

  • Extension Cords: No cords, including extension cords, should run across doorways or under rugs. If you use an extension cord as a permanent fixture, consider installing new electrical outlets.

  • Outlet Safety: Do a hand-check on all outlets once a month; if they’re warm, call your electrician. At all times, stay within manufacturer recommendations for maximum wattage per outlet and never plug more than one high-wattage appliance into a single outlet.

  • Sweep Your Chimney: Schedule an annual flue and chimney sweep (inspection and cleaning) before firing your first logs. And while we’re on that topic, only burn dry or seasoned wood, which produces less creosote (soot) – a fire hazard. 

  • Water Heater Safety: Your water heater should be set for a maximum of 120° to prevent burns (especially if you have children). Always keep flammable or combustible materials (including household chemicals and aerosol cans) away from your water heater.

  • Fire Extinguishers: You should have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and on every level of your home. Replace extinguishers as directed by the manufacturer.

  • Escape Route: Establish a plan of escape in the event of fire. You should map out at least two exit routes and should purchase a rescue ladder if your home is multi-level. Practice your escape plan at least twice per year, with at least one time at night.

  • Emergency Numbers: Compile a list of emergency phone numbers from the local police and fire departments to whom to call in an emergency. Print several versions to post throughout your home (at least one per floor).

  • Poison Control: Keep all poisonous chemicals and other products behind locked doors. Additionally, controlled substances like alcohol and tobacco should be kept in a locked cabinet.

  • Babyproofing and Childproofing: It is essential to keep your home safe for a baby or young child. Install door, cabinet, and appliance locks. Lock all medicine away. Safeguard all sharp corners on furniture, and close off the fireplace. 

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Build Your Disaster Preparedness Kit

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Basic Supplies:

  • Copies of all important documents, preferably on a USB drive, such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days) Food (three-day supply of non-perishable food)

  • Battery-powered or hand crank Weather Radio 

  • Flashlight

  • First aid kit

  • Extra batteries

  • Whistle (to signal for help)

  • Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

  • Moist towelettes, toilet paper, toothpaste

  • Multi-tool

  • Local maps 

  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

  • Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

  • Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.

  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

  • Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

  • Pet food and extra water for your pet

  • Cash or traveler's checks

  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

  • Fire extinguisher

  • Matches in a waterproof container

  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

  • Paper and pencil

  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

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Kit Storage Locations - Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work, and cars.

  • Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.

  • Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water, and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.

  • Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of additional emergency supplies in your car.​

    • Jumper cables

    • Flares or reflective triangle

    • Ice scraper

    • Car cell phone charger

    • Blanket

    • Map

    • Cat litter or sand (for better tire traction)

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