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An emergency can happen at any time.
Whether it’s a house fire at 3 a.m. or a magnitude 9 earthquake at 3 p.m., a single disaster can change your physical, emotional, and financial situation in seconds. This post will walk you through the steps you and your family must take to be self-sufficient after a major disaster.It is impossible to predict every emergency, but you can take steps right now to mitigate and, in many cases, prevent these disasters.
How will you be notified
Public safety officials will communicate with the public in several different ways depending on the situation. These means of communication may include:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) television, radio, and weather radio stations.
- Wireless emergency alerts (WEA) are available on many smartphones.
- Emergency alert systems in your county or city.
- Local media.
- Social networks, including Twitter and Facebook.
- Door notifications (in rare cases).
NOTE. In many cases, to receive emergency notifications, individuals must visit the alert agency’s websites.
Emergency evacuation levels
During emergencies, public safety officials may determine that it is not safe for residents to stay in their homes and order them to evacuate. Familiarize yourself with the following evacuation levels:
Level 1
A Level 1 evacuation means prepare for a potential evacuation.
WARNING: Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, follow the information on the emergency services website and local media for information. This is a time of preparation and advance relocation of people with disabilities and functional needs, the removal of property and (under certain circumstances) domestic animals and livestock.
Level 2
A Level 2 evacuation means to be ready to evacuate. YOU MUST PREPARE TO LEAVE INSTANTLY!
WARNING: This level indicates that there is a significant danger in your area, and residents must voluntarily move out of the emergency area or, if they choose to stay, be ready to evacuate at any time. Residents MAY have time to collect items, but do so at their own risk. THIS MAY BE THE ONLY WARNING YOU WILL RECEIVE. The emergency services cannot guarantee that they will be able to notify you if conditions deteriorate rapidly. Local media services will broadcast periodic updates.
Level 3
A Level 3 evacuation means Get out. Evacuate ASAP. GO OUT IMMEDIATELY!
The danger to your area is current or imminent and you must evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this advice, you should be aware that the emergency services may not be able to assist you further.
Do NOT put off leaving by packing or making an effort to protect your home. THIS WILL BE THE LAST NOTICE YOU WILL RECEIVE. Entry into evacuated areas may be prohibited until conditions are safe. Regional radio stations, television stations and social networks will broadcast periodic updates.
Stay up to date
- and learn about disasters that may occur in your area, how you will be notified and emergency evacuation levels.Household fires
- Forest fires
- Earthquake
Tsunami - Winter Storm
- Flood
- Landslides
- Volcano
Make a plan
Make a plan before disaster strikes. Discuss your plan with other family members and practice. Pay special attention to:
- Elderly people
- Persons with Disabilities
- Prepare your animals
- Your mental health
Assemble an emergency kit
Know which consumables are recommended for your emergency kit and get your finances in order.