Check if you have enough insurance coverage. Note that if you
are a renter, your landlord’s insurance usually does not protect your
personal property. Contact your insurance agent to ask about
renter’s insurance. Usually this is not very expensive.
If you are exposed to floods, ask your agent about the National
Flood Insurance Program. Keep your insurance coverage up to date.
Teach each family member how to use a fire extinguisher (ABC type)
and show them where they are kept.
If they are not already there, install smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
Contact your local fire department to learn about home fire hazards.
Do a home hazard hunt with all family members.
Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways
out of each room.
Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.
Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class. Contact your local
Red Cross Chapter for information about training programs. Include
older children in these courses. These are critical skills and
learning can be a fun activity. Tell children that in a disaster
there are many people who can help the family. Talk about ways that
people can help: neighbors, volunteers, police officers,
firefighters, teachers, doctors, or utility workers.
Have adequate home emergency supplies stored together in a
convenient place.
Have evacuation supplies stored separately and easily
accessible.
7. Practice and maintain your plan.
Every six months:
Quiz your kids so they remember what to do.
Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.
Replace stored water and food to keep them fresh.
When you change your clocks in the spring and fall is a good time
for this routine.
Also:
Recharge your fire extinguisher(s) as needed. Follow the
manufacturer’s maintenance instructions on the cylinder.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly. Change
the batteries at least once a year.
Periodically check the condition of escape equipment from upper
stories.
Every six months:
