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During an Emergency

What to do DURING an Emergency

 

After an emergency disaster is announced, what you do “during an emergency” is just as important as what you do “before an emergency.” 


Immediate action is crucial to ensure the safety of you and your family and those in the crisis area. The following will minimize chaos, harm and decrease panic situations:


  • Following instructions from emergency response individual and authorities
    • Staying updated by tuning into local news, radio, and emergency alerts
  • Following evacuation orders if necessary
    • seeking shelter in a designated safe location
    • contacting loved ones to inform them of your status
    • utilizing emergency supplies like food, water, and Emergency Survival Kits as needed
  • Taking immediate, but calm, direction and steps during an emergency
    • Increase chances of weathering the disaster
    • Recover effectively
    • Minimizing potential harm
 

In an ACTIVE Emergency:

 

Listen to official announcements:
Stay updated through local news, radio, or emergency alerts
Have a clear understanding of the nature of the disaster and follow instruction
 
Follow evacuation orders:
When instructed to evacuate, leave your area promptly
Follow designated routes
 
Seek shelter:
When instructed to seek shelter, move to your designated safe area
 
Communicate with loved ones:
Inform family and friends of your location and status
Keep phone calls to a minimum - text as an alternate
 
Utilize emergency supplies:
Access Emergency Survival Kits prepared “before the emergency” In case of a major emergency
 
Stay put!
Stay in your designated area until you have been given directions to dismiss
Make sure you are safe before assisting others
 

Actions DURING an Emergency

 

When to call 911
ALL 911 calls should remain open for LIFE THREATENING emergencies.
Avoid calling 911 for general information concerning:
Power
Water
Weather-related information
 
NON-emergency calls will:
Maximize phone congestion
Limits space for emergency communications
 
NON-emergency calls remember to:
Keep the call brief
Giving only vital information
Use texting when possible
 
Conserve phone battery (settings)
Decrease screen brightness - use dimming option
Turn off Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
Turn screensaver on the shortest time possible
Turn off background cellular updates for your apps

SAFETY REMINDER: If you have lost power in your home, be mindful when using your vehicle as a power charging source for your mobile devices. Keep in mind about carbon monoxide emissions for your vehicle, especially if it is in an enclosed garage or shelter.