First Warning Weather's Severe Weather Guide

Take the following steps to make sure your family is prepared for any emergency.
 

Before an emergency:
* Find the safe places in your home for each type of disaster. Different disasters often require different types of safe places
* Post emergency telephone numbers by phones. Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number
* Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
* Inspect your home for potential hazards and correct them
* Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home
* Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags
* Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car
 

Insurance measures:
* Check if you have adequate insurance coverage for each disaster type
* Make two photocopies of vital documents and keep the originals in a safe deposit box.
* Make a complete inventory of your home, garage, and surrounding property. Include information such as serial numbers, make and model numbers, physical descriptions, and price of purchases (receipts, if possible)
* Keep important family documents in a waterproof container
 

Emergency action plan:
* Pick two meeting places: Right outside your home (in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire), and outside of your neighborhood (in case you can’t return home or are asked to leave your neighborhood)
* Develop an emergency communication plan for getting back together in case you’re separated during a disaster. Everyone must know the address and phone number of the meeting locations
* Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to be your "family contact" outside of your area.
* Make arrangements for a place to stay with a friend or relative who lives out of town
* Plan several escape routes in case certain roads are blocked or closed. Remember to follow the local officials during evacuation situations. They will direct you to the safest route; some roads may be blocked or put you in further danger

Pet considerations:
* Plan to take care of your pets. If you must evacuate, it is best to take your pets with you. However, pets are not permitted in public shelters, according to many local health department regulations
* Keep a list of "pet friendly" places, including their phone numbers, with other disaster information and supplies
* Carry pets in a sturdy carrier
* Have identification, collar, leash, and proof of vaccinations for all pets
* Assemble a portable pet disaster supplies kit. Keep food, water, and any special pet needs in an easy-to-carry container
* Have a current photo of your pets in case they get lost