Emergency Preparedness Checklist

  • Prepare to be Self-Sustaining for the first 72 hours after a disaster
    Find out how your healthcare provider will respond - are there alternate caregivers you can contact?
  • Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit
    Gather the supplies (several flashlights, battery operated radio first aid kit, etc.) needed to cope with emergencies. This includes a 3-day supply of food and water and extra medical supplies.
  • Setup a Personal Support Network
    If you require assistance to live independently, designate someone to check on you in an emergency and to help with evacuation or sheltering-in-place if required. Give people in this network a spare key and a copy of the Emergency Health Information Card below.
  • Designate an "Out-of-Area" Contact
    Ask an out-of-state family member or friend to be the message contact for you and other persons who may need to reach you. It is easier to get an out of state telephone line, versus a local telephone line, immediately after a disaster. In addition, it may be helpful to have a standard telephone handy as a backup, since telephones that require electricity (e.g., cordless telephones) will not operate in a power failure.
  • Complete the Emergency Health Information Card
    Post this card with your personal and medical information on your refrigerator.
  • Know how and where to shut off the gas, water and electric utilities
    If you are unable to perform these tasks, make sure someone in your network knows their location.
  • Create an Evacuation Plan
    In the event it is not safe to remain at home, identify a place (with family, friends, or neighbors) where you can go and develop a plan for how you will safely get there. Determine what assistance you might need to get out of your home or building, especially if the primary exit route is blocked.
  • Check with your local fire department
    In some jurisdictions the local fire station may list persons who are medically fragile and who require extra evacuation assistance.
  • Detectors and Extinguishers
    Install Smoke Detectors and have an ABC type Fire Extinguisher in the home.
  • Eliminate home hazards
    securely anchor medical equipment, water heater, appliances, bookcases, hanging plants, etc., and place heavy objects on low shelves. Large heavy items can fall in an earthquake and block access, so arrange accordingly.
  • Buy simple security lights for each room
    These devices plug into any outlet and automatically light up for four to six hours if there is a loss of electricity.