Emergency Preparedness

-Maintain an emergency water supply, that meets fire department standards, through one of the following:

          -a community water/hydrant system;

          -a cooperative emergency storage tank with neighbors;

          -a minimum storage supply of 2,500 gallons on your property.

-Clearly mark all emergency water sources and maintain easy firefighter access to these water sources.

-If your water comes from a well, consider an emergency generator to operate the pump during a power failure.

-Store at least a three-day supply of drinking water and food that does not require refrigeration and generally does not need cooking.

-Store first aid supplies, portable radio, flashlight, emergency cooking equipment, portable lanterns and batteries.

-Prepare a list of valuables to take with you in case of evacuation; if possible, store these valuables together to save time later.

-Pre-plan an escape route from your home and neighborhood. Designate an emergency meeting place for the reunion of family members escaping in separate vehicles, and establish a contact point to communicate with concerned relatives.

-Practice emergency exit drills regularly.

-Make sure that all family members are ready to protect themselves with STOP, DROP AND ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.