A few nights ago in suburban Chicago we had a crazy thunderstorm. There was lightening every 5 seconds which eventually led to widespread power outages. The entire thing got me thinking that with kids now, we are just not prepared for disaster. Whether it be a tornado, a fire, or a flood, we are simply not ready.
I started putting my plan together late last night and was surprised by my own ignorance and laziness. A lot of this information is common sense, yet I've implemented only 10% of it. I bet you are in the same position, if not, you get a pat on the back.
I started putting my plan together late last night and was surprised by my own ignorance and laziness. A lot of this information is common sense, yet I've implemented only 10% of it. I bet you are in the same position, if not, you get a pat on the back.
Find out what can happen to you
- Do you know what types of disasters are likely to occur in your region?
- Do you know what the sirens mean?
Create a Disaster Plan
- Pick out places to meet and assign responsibilities. I will get little Johnnie, the wife gets little Mary and we meet HERE. Be specific.
- If you want to bring the dog, establish a rule for it.
- Consider all of the different types of disasters, don't just focus on a fire drill.
Checklist items
- Post emergency telephone numbers by phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.)
- Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1 or your local Emergency Medical Services number for emergency help.
- Show each family member how and when to turn off the utilities (water, gas, and electricity) at the main switches.
- Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
- Get training from the fire department for each family member on how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type), and show them where it's kept.
- Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
- Conduct a home hazard hunt.
- Stock emergency supplies and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit.
- Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.
- Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
- Find the safe places in your home for each type of disaster.
Downloads and Information:
PDF Checklist to help you prepare.
PDF Family Communications Plan
State-by-State Disaster Resources
Ready Kids - Great resource to train kids on planning and understand what disasters are (animated).
Other Sources:
Red Cross
Ready.gov
DisasterCenter.com
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Good info. We are in Chicago too and just bought outr first house. It's old and we need to put a plan together.