Create A Plan
Develop an emergency plan for you and your family. Your family might not be together when an emergency happens. That is why it is important to have a plan in place. The entire family should
know and understand the plan. Talk about how you will reach each other in different situations. You might think about a couple of different plans. Consider contacting the same friend or family member by phone or e-mail. Think about making an out-of-town family member or friend the contact.
Plan For Two Situations - Staying Home or Leaving
You should be prepared to stay in one place or to evacuate. Deciding whether it is best to stay or go depends on the type of emergency. Officials may tell you what you need to do. In some cases, limited communications and information may require you to decide what is best for you and your family.
- Watch TV or listen to the radio to get as much information as possible.
- Use common sense.
- Try to stay calm and keep you family calm.
Prepare A Shelter At Home
Before an emergency, decide which room in your house will be safest if you have to stay. The room should be in the interior of the house. Pick a room with few windows and doors. There are a few thing to keep in mind including:
- There should be enough space in the room for all family members and pets.
- Exterior doors to the house should be locked.
In an emergency where poisons are in the air, you may have to seal the room as best you can. This involves:
- Closing windows, air vents, and fireplace dampers.
- Turning off air conditioners, forced air heating systems, exhaust fans, and clothes dryers.
- If instructed, seal doors and air vents with heavy-duty plastic sheeting and heavy duty tape.
- Keep emergency supplies in this room.
- Listen to the television or a battery-powered radio for information.
Know Where To Go If You Have To Leave
Sometimes it may not be safe to stay in your home. Plan where family members can meet. Know where you will go and how you will get there.
- Plan several different routes in different directions.
- If you are driving, keep windows and vents closed, and air conditioning and heat off.
- Bring an emergency kit with you.
- If you can, bring your pets. However, many public shelters won't allow pets. Have a plan for your pet's care in case you can't bring your pet with you.
Emergency Planning Links
Create A Plan
Prepare A Kit
Listen For Information
Emergency Planning If You Have a Child In School
Emergency Planning At Work
Emergency Planning For People With Special Needs and Senior Citizens
Emergency Planning For Pets
Emergency Kit Checklist
Missouri DHSS Planning for Emergencies: Three Steps to be Prepared, A Family Safety Guide