Preparing for an emergency
To prepare for an emergency, you should take time to find out:
- Where and how to turn off water, gas and electricity supplies in your
home
- The emergency procedures for your children at school
- The emergency procedures at your workplace
- How your family will stay in contact in the event of an emergency
- If any elderly or vulnerable neighbours might need your help
- How to tune in to your local radio station
If you are at home and an emergency happens, try to gather together:
- A list of useful phone numbers, such as your doctor's and close relatives'
- Home and car keys
- Toiletries, sanitary supplies and any regularly prescribed medication
- A battery radio, with spare batteries
- A torch with spare batteries, candles and matches
- A First Aid kit
- Your mobile phone
- Cash and credit cards
- Spare clothes and blankets
Also, it is always useful to have:
- Bottled water, ready-to-eat food (e.g. tinned food) and a bottle/tin
opener, in case you have to remain in your home for several days
In certain very unlikely situations, you may be asked to leave your
home by the emergency services. If this happens, leave as quickly and calmly
as possible. And, if you have time:
- Turn off electricity, gas and water supplies, unplug appliances and lock
all doors and windows
- See the items listed above for what to take with you
- If you leave by car, take bottled water and blankets, and tune in to
local radio for emergency advice and instructions
When you are told that it is safe to return home, open windows to provide
fresh air before reconnecting gas, electricity and water supplies.
[return to top]
