Family Disaster Planning

Introduction

Families should be prepared for all hazards that could affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the American Red Cross, and the the Fort Collins Office of Emergency Management urge every family to develop a family disaster plan.

Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere--at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disaster may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services--water, gas, electricity or telephones--were cut off?

Family Emergency Preparedness Guide

A 72-hour Emergency Supplies Kit:

Here is a sample 72-hour Emergency Supplies Kit displayed during
'Flood Awareness Day' at Foothills Fashion Mall.

• A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil
• One change of clothing and footwear per person
• One blanket or sleeping bag per person
• A first aid kit, including prescription medicines
• Emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
• An extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.

Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family members remember meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries two times each year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every 6 months. Contact your local National Weather Service office, American Red Cross Chapter, or the Fort Collins Office of Emergency Management for a copy of "Your Family Disaster Plan" (L-191/ARC4466).