Your local American Red Cross, emergency management, or civil-defense office can tell you what type of disasters have the potential to happen in your area and direct you toward necessary training such as CPR and first aid. They can also tell you what methods will be used for warning and informing the public of disasters, such as radio and TV, and how to be prepared. The local fire department can advise you about fire hazards in the home, and how to deal with fire situations during disasters.

Family and Neighborhood Meetings

Hold a family meeting to discuss disaster scenarios and what to do in case of evacuations or separation of family members. Explain your plans and preparations, and practice your plan. In case your family members are separated by disaster, decide on two different meeting places at a safe but accessible distance from your home, and somewhere in your neighborhood area in case you are not able to return home. Always take care to consider any special needs of disabled or sick and elderly persons, and plan for child care in case parents are injured or missing.