Emergency Preparedness

Creating an Emergency Plan

Steps to take in creating a household emergency plan include:

Schedule a family meeting to discuss the dangers of possible emergency events including fire, severe weather, hazardous spills, and terrorism.
Discuss how you and your family will respond to each possible emergency.
Discuss what to do in case of power outages or personal injuries.
Draw a floor plan of your home and mark two escape routes from each room.
Because it is often easier to call long distance during an emergency than within the affected area, choose an out-of-state friend or relative whom all family members will call if separated during an emergency.
Pick two meeting places - one near your home and one outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home after an emergency.
Keep family records in a water - and fire-proof safe. Inexpensive models can be purchased at most hardware stores.
It's impossible to control the weather and stop catastrophes from happening. However, we can help educate families and communities on the vital steps for emergency preparedness so that everyone can minimize risks and be aware of the safe routes should an emergency take place. The Safety, Health and Consumer Council is sharing this easy to read Emergency Preparedness Guide to be your first step towards getting ready.

Oklahomans are reminded that tornadoes can occur any time of year. Knowing the difference between watches and warnings can help save lives.

A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible. Keep watch on the weather.
A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted. When a tornado warning is issued, take shelter in a basement, away from windows. If there is no basement, go to an interior room, like a closet, on the ground floor.

Once severe weather has passed, be prepared for possible flooding to occur. Also, watch for downed power lines and never drive into high water.