How can I prepare my family for a disaster? Emergency events can occur quickly and without warning. Planning for any emergency requires considering all likely scenarios. If you are able to stay at home, electricity, water, heat, air conditioning, telephone service and transportation could be disrupted or lost for a considerable amount of time. It is important to develop an emergency preparedness plan that includes:
At least two emergency meeting places. Pick one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as fire. Pick at least one other place outside your neighborhood in case you are told to evacuate or can’t return home.
An emergency communications plan. Choose an out-of-town person to be your contact point for family members to call if you are separated. Make sure everyone has contact information including phone numbers and e-mail addresses.
Information about school and workplace emergency plans.
How long do we need to be prepared for? Most emergency management planners suggest having enough food, water, medications and other essentials on hand to last your family for at least three days for weather-related events. In other types of emergencies, you may have to evacuate your home or community. What should I have in my homeemergency preparedness kit? Put together a three-day supply of the following items in an easy-to-carry container:
Non-perishable food that does not require preparation like canned meat, vegetables and fruit
Manual can opener
At least three gallons of bottled water per family member
Battery-operated radio
Flashlights
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Duct tape and plastic sheeting
Pet supplies
In case of emergency call:
Prince William County: 703-792-6805 www.pwcgov.org click Emergency Preparedness