While tornados are a threat to all Oklahomans, the city of Edmond has come up with a unique plan, called “30 Days of Preparedness”. This comprehensive plan details steps to prepare your family for a tornado event, all within 30 days. Most steps are very simple to follow and require little to no monetary investment.
- Identify the best escape routes from your home in case of a fire.
- Pick two places to meet after a disaster or emergency; one close to your home and one some distance away… like a good friend’s or a relative’s.
- Choose an emergency contact person outside your area that you can check in with. They can be your rendezvous connection.
- Complete an emergency contact card with phone numbers and make copies for each member of your family.
- Find out in advance how best to care for your pets and working animals when disaster strikes.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit for yourself, a small personal one.
- Prepare a pet emergency supply kit.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit for your family to keep at the house.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit for your car(s).
- Develop a family emergency plan. See number 26 below.
- Mark your calendar now – every six months – review your plan, update numbers and check supplies to be sure nothing has expired, spoiled, or changed.
- Check your child’s school Web site or call the school office to request a copy of the school’s emergency plan. Know how you can help them and not hinder them.
- Teach your children how and when to call 9-1-1.
- Practice. Conduct fire drills and practice evacuating your home.
- Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together during an emergency.
- Check on the emergency preparedness plan for your workplace.
- Consider those close to you that have a disability or a special need; make sure they are planned for.
- Besides your emergency kits, check your pantry. You should keep enough “necessary” supplies in your home to carry you through three days.
- Have a family meeting and make a list of foods that: Have a long shelf-life, you and your family like, do not require cooking, can be easily stored and are healthy.
- Take a minute to check your family’s first aid kit.
- Make sure you can provide a three-day supply of water per person. Learn how to make “questionable” water safe if necessary. Filter, then boil or chlorinate.
- Consider long-term sanitation needs in your emergency supply kit.
- Store, yet keep handy, one complete change of clothing and footwear for each member of your family.
- Create a smaller version of your emergency supply kit for your work place.
- Review emergency action steps with all family members.
- Check the scene and the victim
- Call 9-1-1 and stay on the line
- Care for the victims
- Get smarter. Read the information on your city, county and/or state government web sites as well as www.ready.gov.
- You may be required to turn off your utilities. Make sure you know how and have the tools to do so.
- Know the details of and actions for “shelter-in-place” and evacuate; have a plan.
- Take the time now to assess and discuss with your family your preparedness and recovery situations. Make sure the important questions are answered.
- Learn even more about threats like wildfires, pandemics and earthquakes.
Education and staying alert are the keys to being prepared in case a tornado disaster strikes. Follow these simple steps to help keep your family safe during Oklahoma’s tumultuous tornado seasons.
For more information on “30 Days to Preparedness” follow this link: http://edmondok.com/495/Outdoor-Warning-Devices