Federal Emergency Management Agency
Dear Citizens,
We live in a different world
than we did before September 11, 2001.
We are more aware of our vulnerabilities, more appreciative of our
freedoms and more understanding that we have a personal responsibility for the
safety of our families, our neighbors and our nation.
Are You Ready? A Guide to
Citizen Preparedness provides
practical information on how your family can prepare for any disaster. It includes up-to-date hazard specific safety
tips and information about preparedness and protection. In addition to information on most natural
and technological disasters, there are new chapters on “Animals in Disaster,”
“Extreme Heat (Heat Wave),” “Landslide & Debris Flow (Mudslide),”
“Emergency Water Shortages,” and newly updated information on terrorism.
We know that disaster
preparedness works. We can take action
now that will help protect our families, reduce the impact an emergency has on our
lives, and deal with the chaos if an incident occurs near us. These actions are at the heart of everything
we do at FEMA, and they are the reason President George W. Bush established
Citizen Corps, a nationwide initiative encompassing public education, citizen
training and volunteer programs. FEMA’s
vision of a nation prepared is best achieved by your participation in community
and family preparedness so that we are all better protected for every disaster.
Contact your local emergency
management office for information about specific hazards in your area and to
volunteer to help make your community better prepared.
We know that disaster can
strike at any time. We all have a personal responsibility to be ready.
Sincerely,
Joe M. Allbaugh
Acknowledgement
This guide has
been prepared for direct dissemination to the general public and is based on
the most reliable hazard awareness and emergency education information
available at the time of publication, including advances in scientific knowledge,
more accurate technical language, and the latest physical research on what
happens in disasters.
This publication
is, however, too brief to cover every factor, situation, or difference in
buildings, infrastructure, or other environmental features that might be of
interest. To help you explore your
interest further, additional sources of information have been compiled in the
“For More Information” chapter, beginning on page 97.
Table of Contents
Why
Prepare for a Disaster........................................................................ 1
General
Preparedness Information............................................................ 3
Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies............................................. 4
Creating a disaster plan....................................................................... 4
Emergency planning for people with
special needs........................ 5
Disaster supply kits............................................................................... 6
Evacuation..................................................................................................... 11
Shelter............................................................................................................. 13
Long-term in-place
sheltering............................................................. 13
Staying in a mass care shelter............................................................. 17
Mitigation...................................................................................................... 18
Animals in Disaster...................................................................................... 20
Recovering From Disaster........................................................................... 23
Mental health and crisis
counseling.................................................. 25
Natural
Hazards............................................................................................... 28
Floods............................................................................................................. 29
Hurricanes...................................................................................................... 33
Thunderstorms.............................................................................................. 39
Lightning................................................................................................. 40
Tornadoes................................................................................................ 42
Winter Storms and Extreme Cold................................................................ 46
Extreme Heat (Heat Wave).......................................................................... 49
Emergency water shortages................................................................. 51
Earthquakes................................................................................................... 55
Volcanoes...................................................................................................... 58
Landslide and Debris Flow (Mudslide)..................................................... 61
Tsunamis........................................................................................................ 64
Fire.................................................................................................................. 66
Wildland fires.......................................................................................... 70
Technological
& Man–Made Hazards..................................................... 72
Hazardous Materials Incidents................................................................... 73
Household chemical
emergencies....................................................... 76
Nuclear Power Plants................................................................................... 79
National Security Emergencies................................................................... 83
Terrorism................................................................................................. 83
Chemical and biological
weapons..................................................... 86
Nuclear and radiological
attack........................................................ 89
Homeland security advisory system......................................................... 94
For More
Information............................................................................................. 97
Citizen Corps..................................................................................................... 99
CERT ............................................................................................................... 99
Disaster Public Education Websites........................................................... 100
Independent Study Courses......................................................................... 101
Why Prepare for a Disaster?
Disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Each disaster has lasting effects—people are
seriously injured, some are killed, and property damage runs into the billions
of dollars.
If a disaster occurs in your community, local government and
disaster-relief organizations try to help you.
But you need to be ready as well.
Local responders may not be able to reach you immediately, or they may
need to focus their efforts elsewhere.
Being prepared and understanding what to do can reduce fear, anxiety
and losses that accompany disasters.
Communities, families and individuals should know what to do in a fire
and where to seek shelter in a tornado.
They should be ready to evacuate their homes, take refuge in public
shelters and know how to care for their basic medical needs.
People can also reduce the impact of disasters (flood proofing, elevating
a home—or moving a home out of harms way, securing items that could shake loose
in an earthquake) and sometimes avoid the danger altogether.
You should know how to respond to severe weather or any disaster that could
occur in your area—hurricanes, earthquakes, extreme cold or flooding. You should also be ready to be self
sufficient for at least three days. This
may mean providing for your own shelter, first aid, food, water and sanitation.
This guide can help. It was
developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the agency
responsible for responding to national disasters and for helping state and
local governments and individuals prepare for emergencies. It contains step-by-step advice on how to
prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.
While this guide focuses on the physical hazards of disasters, there
are also the emotional effects of losing a loved one, a home, or treasured
possessions. When under stress, people
can become irritable, fatigued, hyperactive, angry and withdrawn. Children and older adults are especially
vulnerable to post-disaster psychological effects.
Share this reference with your household. Include everyone in the planning
process. Teach children how to respond
to emergencies. Give them a sense of
what to expect. Being prepared,
understanding your risks and taking steps to reduce those risks can reduce the
damages caused by hazards.
What You Should Do
First, ask your
local emergency management office which disasters could strike your
community. They will know your
community’s risks. You may be aware of
some of them; others may surprise you.
Also ask for any information that might help you prepare and possibly reduce the
risks you face. Then, refer to the appropriate
chapters in this handbook. Each chapter
covers a specific hazard and describes how to prepare and what to do when the
disaster occurs.
Next, review the “Evacuation,” “Shelter,” “Emergency Planning
and Disaster Supplies” and “Recovering From Disaster” chapters. These chapters apply to a range of hazards
including some not specifically addressed in this publication.
Use this guide as
your foundation for disaster preparedness and safety. Since special conditions exist in every
community, local instructions may be slightly different
from those described in this guide. If
so, follow local instructions.
Consider getting
involved in local emergency preparedness and response activities by
volunteering in your community. One way
is to participate as a Citizen Corps community volunteer. See the “For More Information” chapter for
details on Citizen Corps and FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
program.
General
Preparedness Information
Emergency Planning
And DISASTER Supplies
Evacuation
Shelter
Mitigation
Animals in Disaster
Recovering
From Disaster
Emergency
Planning and Disaster
Supplies
Emergency Planning
Immediately after an emergency, essential
services may be cut-off and local disaster relief and government responders may
not be able to reach you right away.
Even if they could reach you, knowing what to do to protect yourself and
your household is essential.
This
chapter describes how to prepare for any kind of disaster. It also provides specific information about
emergency water and food, and a recommended disaster supply kit.
Creating a disaster plan
One of the most important steps you can
take in preparing for emergencies is to develop a household disaster plan.
1. Learn about the natural disasters that could
occur in your community from your local emergency management office or American
Red Cross chapter. Learn whether
hazardous materials are produced, stored or transported near your area. Learn about possible consequences of
deliberate acts of terror. Ask how to
prepare for each potential emergency and how to respond.
2. Talk with employers and school officials
about their emergency response plans.
3. Talk with your household about potential
emergencies and how to respond to each.
Talk about what you would need to do in an evacuation.
4. Plan how your household would stay in contact
if you were separated. Identify two
meeting places: the first should be near your home—in case of fire, perhaps a
tree or a telephone pole; the second should be away from your neighborhood in
case you cannot return home.
5. Pick a friend or relative who lives out of
the area for household members to call to say they are okay.
6. Draw a floor plan of your home. Mark two escape routes from each room.
7. Post emergency telephone numbers by
telephones. Teach children how and when
to call 911.
8. Make sure everyone in your household knows how
and when to shut off water, gas, and electricity at the main switches. Consult
with your local utilities if you have questions.
9. Take a first aid and CPR class. Local American Red Cross chapters can provide
information. Official certification by the
American Red Cross provides “good Samaritan” law protection for those giving
first aid.
10. Reduce the economic impact of disaster on
your property and your household’s health and financial well-being.
• Review property insurance policies before disaster strikes—make sure policies are current and be certain they meet your needs (type of coverage, amount of coverage, and hazard covered—flood, earthquake)
• Protect your household’s financial well-being before a disaster strikes—review life insurance policies and consider saving money in an “emergency” savings account that could be used in any crisis. It is advisable to keep a small amount of cash or traveler’s checks at home in a safe place where you can quickly gain access to it in case of an evacuation.
• Be certain that health insurance policies are current and meet the needs of your household.
11. Consider ways to help neighbors who may need
special assistance, such as the elderly or the disabled.
12.
Make
arrangements for pets. Pets are not allowed
in public shelters. Service animals for
those who depend on them are allowed.
Emergency planning for
people with special needs
If you have a
disability or special need, you may have to take additional steps to protect
yourself and your household in an emergency. If you know of friends or
neighbors with special needs, help them with these extra precautions. Examples
include:
• Hearing impaired may need to make special arrangements to receive a warning.
• Mobility impaired may need assistance in getting to a shelter.
• Households with a single working parent may need help from others both in planning for disasters and during an emergency.
• Non-English speaking people may need assistance planning for and responding to emergencies. Community and cultural groups may be able to help keep these populations informed.
• People without vehicles may need to make arrangements for transportation.
• People with special dietary needs should have an adequate emergency food supply.
1.
Find out about special assistance that
may be available in your community.
Register with the office of emergency services or fire department for
assistance, so needed help can be provided quickly in an emergency.
2. Create a network of neighbors, relatives,
friends and co-workers to aid you in an emergency. Discuss your needs and make
sure they know how to operate necessary equipment.
3. Discuss your needs with your employer.
4. If you are mobility impaired and live or
work in a high-rise building, have an escape chair.
5. If you live in an apartment building, ask the
management to mark accessible exits clearly and to make arrangements to help
you evacuate the building.
6. Keep extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen,
catheters, medication, food for guide or hearing-ear dogs, or other items you
might need. Also, keep a list of the
type and serial numbers of medical devices you need.
7. Those who are not disabled should learn who
in their neighborhood or building is disabled so that they may assist them
during emergencies.
8. If
you are a care-giver for a person with special needs, make sure you have a plan
to communicate if an emergency occurs.
Disaster Supply Kits
You may need to survive on your own for
three days or more. This means
having your own water, food and emergency
supplies. Try using backpacks or duffel
bags to keep the supplies together.
Assembling
the supplies you might need following a disaster is an important part of your
disaster plan. You should prepare
emergency supplies for the following situations:
• A disaster supply kit with essential food,
water, and supplies for at least three days—this kit should be kept in a
designated place and be ready to “grab and go” in case you have to leave your home
quickly because of a disaster, such as a flash flood or major chemical
emergency. Make sure all household members know where the kit is kept.
• Consider having additional supplies for
sheltering or home confinement for up to two weeks.
• You
should also have a disaster supply kit at work. This should be in one
container, ready to "grab and go" in case you have to evacuate the
building.
• A
car kit of emergency supplies, including food and water, to keep stored in your
car at all times. This kit would also include flares, jumper cables, and
seasonal supplies.
The
following checklists will help you assemble disaster supply kits that meet the
needs of your household. The basic items that should be in a disaster supply
kit are water, food, first-aid supplies, tools and emergency supplies, clothing
and bedding, and specialty items. You will need to change the stored water and
food supplies every six months, so be sure to write the date you store it on
all containers. You should also re-think your needs every year and update your
kit as your household changes. Keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your
entire disaster supply kit in one or two easy-to carry containers such as an
unused trash can, camping backpack or duffel bag.
Water: the absolute necessity
1. Stocking water reserves should be a top
priority. Drinking water in emergency situations should not be rationed.
Therefore, it is critical to store adequate amounts of water for your
household.
• Individual needs vary, depending on age, physical condition, activity, diet, and climate. A normally active person needs at least two quarts of water daily just for drinking. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people need more. Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed.
• Because you will also need water for sanitary purposes and, possibly, for cooking, you should store at least one gallon of water per person per day.
2. Store water in thoroughly washed plastic,
fiberglass or enamel-lined metal containers.
Don't use containers that can break, such as glass bottles. Never use a
container that has held toxic substances.
Sound plastic containers, such as soft drink bottles, are best. You can also purchase food-grade plastic
buckets or drums.
• Containers for water should be rinsed with a
diluted bleach solution (one part bleach
to ten parts water) before use. Previously used bottles or other containers may
be contaminated with microbes or chemicals. Do not rely on untested devices for
decontaminating water.
• If your water is treated commercially by a water utility, you do not need to treat water before storing it. Additional treatments of treated public water will not increase storage life.
• If you have a well or public water that has not been treated, follow the treatment instructions provided by your public health service or water provider.
• If
you suspect that your well may be contaminated, contact your local or state
health department or agriculture extension agent for specific advice.
• Seal your water containers tightly, label them and store them in a cool, dark place.
• It is important to change stored water every six months.
For water
purification for immediate or near term use, please read the “Shelter”
chapter of this guide.
Food: preparing an emergency
supply.
1. If activity is reduced, healthy people can
survive on half their usual food intake for an extended period or without any
food for many days. Food, unlike water,
may be rationed safely, except for children and pregnant women.
2. You don’t need to go out and buy unfamiliar
foods to prepare an emergency food supply.
You can use the canned foods, dry mixes and other staples on your
cupboard shelves. Canned foods do not
require cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can
opener.
3. Keep canned
foods in a dry place where the temperature is fairly cool. To protect boxed foods from pests and to
extend their shelf life, store the food in tightly closed plastic or metal
containers.
4. Replace items in your food supply every six
months. Throw out any canned good that
becomes swollen, dented, or corroded.
Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh supplies. Date each food item with a marker. Place new items at the back of the storage
area and older ones in front.
5. Food items that you might consider including
in your disaster supply kit include: ready-to-eat meats, fruits, and
vegetables; canned or boxed juices, milk, and soup; high-energy foods like
peanut butter, jelly, low-sodium crackers, granola bars, and trail mix;
vitamins; foods for infants or persons on special diets; cookies, hard candy;
instant coffee, cereals, and powdered milk.
You may need to survive on
your own after a disaster. Local
officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they
cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take
days. Basic services, such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and
telephones, may be cut off for days, even a week or longer. Or you may have to
evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You probably won’t
have the opportunity to shop or search for the supplies you’ll need. Your
household will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes.
First aid supplies
Assemble a first aid kit for your home and for each vehicle:
• The
basics for your first aid kit should include:
– First aid manual
– Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
– Assorted sizes of safety pins
– Cleansing agents (isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen
peroxide)/soap/germicide
– Antibiotic ointment
– Latex gloves (2 pairs)
– Petroleum jelly
– 2-inch and 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 each size)
– Triangular bandages (3)
– 2-inch and 3-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls each)
– Cotton balls
– Scissors
– Tweezers
– Needle
– Moistened towelettes
– Antiseptic
– Thermometer
– Tongue depressor blades (2)
– Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
– Sunscreen.
• It
may be difficult to obtain prescription medications during a disaster because
stores may be closed or supplies may be limited. Ask your physician or
pharmacist about storing prescription medications. Be sure they are stored to
meet instructions on the label and be mindful of expirations dates—be sure to
keep your stored medication up to date.
• Extra pair of prescription
glasses or contact lens.
• Have
the following nonprescription drugs in your disaster supply kit:
– Aspirin and nonaspirin pain reliever
– Antidiarrhea medication
– Antacid (for stomach upset)
– Syrup of ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised by
the poison control center)
– Laxative
– Vitamins.
Tools and emergency supplies
It
will be important to assemble these items in a disaster supply kit in case you
have to leave your home quickly. Even if you don't have to leave your home, if
you lose power it will be easier to have these item already assembled and in
one place.
• Tools
and other items:
– A portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra
batteries (also have a NOAA weather radio, if appropriate for your area)
– Flashlight and extra batteries
– Signal flare
– Matches in a waterproof container (or waterproof matches)
– Shut-off wrench, pliers, shovel and other tools
– Duct tape and scissors
– Plastic sheeting
– Whistle
– Small canister, A-B-C-type fire extinguisher
– Tube tent
– Compass
– Work gloves
– Paper, pens, and pencils
– Needles and thread
– Battery-operated travel alarm clock
• Kitchen
items:
– Manual can opener
– Mess kits or paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils
– All-purpose knife
– Household liquid bleach to treat drinking water
– Sugar, salt, pepper
– Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
– Re-sealing plastic bags
– If food must be cooked, small cooking
stove and a can of cooking fuel
• Sanitation
and hygiene items:
– Washcloth and towel
– Towelettes, soap, hand sanitizer, liquid detergent
– Tooth paste, toothbrushes, shampoo, deodorants, comb and brush,
razor, shaving cream, lip balm, sunscreen, insect repellent, contact lens
solutions, mirror, feminine supplies
– Heavy-duty plastic garbage bags and ties—for personal
sanitation uses—and toilet paper
– Medium-sized plastic bucket with tight lid
– Disinfectant and household chlorine bleach
– Consider including a small shovel for digging a latrine
• Household
documents and contact numbers:
– Personal identification, cash (including change) or traveler's
checks, and a credit card
– Copies of important documents: birth certificate, marriage
certificate, driver's license, social security cards, passport, wills, deeds,
inventory of household goods, insurance papers, immunizations records, bank and
credit card account numbers, stocks and bonds. Be sure to store these in a
watertight container.
– Emergency contact list and phone numbers
– Map of the area and phone numbers of place you could go
v
An extra set of car keys and
house keys.
Clothes and bedding
• One complete change of clothing and footwear
for each household member. Shoes should be sturdy work shoes or boots. Rain
gear, hat and gloves, extra socks, extra underwear, thermal underwear,
sunglasses.
• Blankets or a sleeping bag for each
household member, pillows.
Specialty items
Remember to consider the
needs of infants, elderly persons, disabled persons, and pets and to include
entertainment and comfort items for children.
• For baby
• For the elderly
• For pets
• Entertainment: books, games, quiet toys and
stuffed animals.
It
is important for you to be ready, wherever you may be when disaster strikes.
With the checklists above you can now put together an appropriate disaster
supply kits for your household:
• A
disaster supply kit kept in the home with supplies for at least three days;
• Although
it is unlikely that food supplies would be cut off for as long as two weeks,
consider storing additional water, food, clothing and bedding other supplies to
expand your supply kit to last up to two weeks.
• A
work place disaster supply kit. It is important to store a personal supply of
water and food at work; you will not be able to rely on water fountains or
coolers. Women who wear high-heels should be sure to have comfortable flat
shoes at their workplace in case an evacuation require walking long distances.
• A
car disaster supply kit. Keep a smaller disaster supply kit in the trunk of you
car. If you become stranded or are not able to return home, having these items
will help you be more comfortable until help arrives. Add items for sever winter
weather during months when heave snow or icy roads are possible—salt, sand,
shovels, and extra winter clothing, including hats and gloves.
Evacuation
Evacuations are
more common than many people realize.
Hundreds of times each year, transportation and industrial accidents
release harmful substances, forcing thousands of people to leave their
homes. Fires and floods cause
evacuations even more frequently. And
almost every year, people along the Gulf and
When community
evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public
through the media. In some circumstances
other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, are also used. Government
agencies, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and other disaster relief
organizations provide emergency shelter and supplies. To be prepared for an emergency, you should
have enough water, food, clothing and emergency supplies to last at least three
days. In a catastrophic emergency, you
might need to be self-sufficient for even longer.
The amount of
time you have to evacuate will depend on the disaster. If the event can be monitored, like a
hurricane, you might have a day or two to get ready. However, many disasters allow no time for
people to gather even the most basic necessities. This is why you should prepare now.
Planning for evacuation
1. Ask your local emergency management office
about community evacuation plans. Learn
evacuation routes. If you do not own a
car, make transportation arrangements with friends or your local government.
2. Talk with your household about the
possibility of evacuation. Plan where
you would go if you had to leave the community.
Determine how you would get there. In your planning, consider different
scales of evacuations. In a hurricane, for example, entire counties would
evacuate, while much smaller area would be affected by a chemical release.
3. Plan a place to meet your household in case
you are separated from one another in a disaster. Ask a friend outside your town to be the
“checkpoint” so that everyone in the household can call that person to say they
are safe.
4. Find out where children will be sent if
schools are evacuated.
5. Assemble
a disaster supplies kit. Include a
battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, food, water and
clothing. See the “Emergency Planning
and Disaster Supplies” chapter for a complete list.
6. Keep fuel in your car if an evacuation seems
likely. Gas stations may be closed
during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages.
7. Know how to shut off your home’s electricity,
gas and water supplies at main switches and valves. Have the tools you would need to do this
(usually adjustable pipe and crescent wrenches).
What to do when you are told to evacuate
Listen to a
battery-powered radio and follow local instructions. If the danger is a chemical release and you
are instructed to evacuate immediately, gather your household and go. Take one car per household when evacuating.
This will keep your household together and reduce traffic congestion and delay.
In other cases, you may have time to follow these steps:
1. Gather water, food, clothing, emergency
supplies, and insurance and financial records.
See the "Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies" chapter for
important information.
2. Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides
some protection, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a cap.
3. Secure your home. Close and lock doors and windows. Unplug appliances. If a hard freeze is likely during your
absence, take actions needed to prevent damage to water pipes by freezing
weather, such as:
• Turn off water main.
• Drain faucets.
• Turn off inside valves for external faucets and open the outside faucets to drain.
4. Turn
off the main water valve and electricity, if instructed to do so.
5. Let others know where you are going.
6. Leave
early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
7. Follow
recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts. They may be blocked. Be alert for washed-out
roads and bridges. Do not drive into
flooded areas. Stay away from downed
power lines.
Disaster situations can be intense,
stressful, and confusing. Should an
evacuation be necessary, local authorities will do their best to notify the
public, but do not depend entirely on this.
Often, a disaster can strike with little or no warning, providing local
authorities scant time to issue an evacuation order. Also, it is possible that you may not hear of
an evacuation order due to communications or power failure or not listening to
your battery-powered radio. Local
authorities and meteorologists could also make mistakes, including
underestimating an emergency or disaster situation. In the absence of evacuation instructions
from local authorities, you should evacuate if you feel you and your household
are threatened or endangered. Use
pre-designated evacuation routes and let others know what you are doing and
your destination.
Shelter
Taking shelter is often a critical element in protecting yourself and
your household in times of disaster. Sheltering can take several forms.
In-place sheltering is appropriate when conditions require that you seek
protection in your home, place of employment, or other location where you are
located when disaster strikes. In-place sheltering may either be short-term,
such as going to a safe room for a fairly short period while a tornado warning
is in effect or while a chemical cloud passes. It may also be longer-term, as
when you stay in your home for several days without electricity or water
services following a winter storm. We also use the term “shelter” for Mass Care
facilities that provide a place to stay along with food and water to people who
evacuate following a disaster.
The appropriate steps to take in preparing for and implementing
short-term in-place sheltering depend entirely on the emergency situation. For
instance, during a tornado warning you should go to an underground room, if
such a room is available. During a chemical release, on the other hand, you
should seek shelter in a room above ground level. Because of these differences,
short-term in-place shelter is described in the chapters dealing with specific hazards.
See the chapters on “Thunderstorms” and “Hazardous Materials Incidents” for
more information. The remainder of this chapter describes steps you should take
to prepare for long-term in-place sheltering and for staying in a mass care
shelter if you evacuate.
Long-term in-place sheltering
Sometimes disasters
make it unsafe for people to leave their residence for extended periods. Winter
storms, floods, and landslides may isolate individual households and make it necessary
for each household to take care of its own needs until the disaster abates,
such as when snows melt and temperatures rise, or until rescue workers arrive.
Your household should be prepared to be self-sufficient for three days when cut
off from utilities and from outside supplies of food and water.
1. Stay in your shelter until local authorities say it’s okay to
leave. The length of your stay can range
from a few hours to two weeks.
2. Maintain a
24-hour communications and safety watch.
Take turns listening for radio broadcasts. Watch for fires.
3. Assemble an
emergency toilet, if necessary.
• Use
a garbage container, pail or bucket with a snug-fitting cover. If the container is small, use a larger
container with a cover for waste disposal.
Line both containers with plastic bags.
• After
each use, pour or sprinkle a small amount of regular household disinfectant,
such as chlorine bleach, into the container to reduce odors and germs.
Managing water supplies
Water is critical for survival.
Plan to have about one gallon of water per person per day for drinking,
cooking and personal hygiene. You may
need more for medical emergencies.
1. Allow people
to drink according to their need. The
average person should drink between two and two-and-one-half quarts of water or
other liquids per day, but many people need more. This will depend on age, physical activity,
physical condition and time of year.
2. Never ration
water unless ordered to do so by authorities. Drink the amount you need today
and try to find more for tomorrow. Under no circumstances should a person drink
less than one quart of water each day. You can minimize the amount of water
your body needs by reducing activity and staying cool.
3. Drink water
that you know is not contaminated first.
If necessary, suspicious water, such as cloudy water from regular
faucets or muddy water from streams or ponds, can be used after it has been treated. If water treatment is not possible, put off
drinking suspicious water as long as possible, but do not become dehydrated.
4. In addition to
stored water, other sources include:
• Melted
ice cubes.
• Water
drained from the water heater faucet, if the water heater has not been damaged.
• Water
dipped from the flush tanks (not the bowls) of home toilets. Bowl water can be used for pets.
• Liquids from canned goods such as fruit and
vegetable juices.
5.
Carbonated beverages do not meet drinking-water requirements. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol dehydrate the
body, which increases the need for drinking water.
6. If
water pipes are damaged or if local authorities advise you, turn off the main
water valves to prevent water from draining away in case the water main
breaks.
• The
pipes will be full of water when the main valve is closed.
• To
use this water, turn on the faucet at the highest point in your house (which
lets air into the system).
• Then
draw water, as needed, from the lowest point in your house, either a faucet or
the hot water tank.
7. Unsafe water
sources include:
• Radiators.
• Hot
water boilers (home heating system).
• Water beds (fungicides added to the water or chemicals in the vinyl may make water unsafe to use).
• Swimming pools and spas
(chemicals used in them to kill germs are too concentrated for safe drinking,
but can be used for personal hygiene, cleaning and related uses).
Water treatment
Treat all water of uncertain purity before using it for
drinking, food washing or preparation, washing dishes, brushing teeth or making
ice. In addition to having a bad odor
and taste, contaminated water can contain microorganisms that cause diseases
such as dysentery, cholera, typhoid and hepatitis.
There are many ways to treat water.
None is perfect. Often the best
solution is a combination of methods.
Before treating, let any suspended particles settle to the bottom, or
strain them through layers of clean cloth.
Following are four treatment methods.
The first three methods—boiling, chlorination and water treatment
tablets—will kill microbes but will not remove other contaminants such as heavy
metals, salts, most other chemicals and radioactive fallout. The final method—distillation—will remove
microbes as well as most other contaminants, including radioactive fallout.
Boiling is the safest method of treating water.
• Boiling water kills harmful bacteria and parasites. Bringing water to a rolling boil for 1 minute
will kill most organisms. Let the water
cool before drinking.
• Boiled
water will taste better if you put oxygen back into it by pouring it back and
forth between two containers. This will
also improve the taste of stored water.
Chlorination uses liquid chlorine bleach to kill microorganisms such as
bacteria.
• Use regular household liquid bleach that contains no soap or
scents. Some containers warn, “Not For
Personal Use.” You can disregard these
warnings if the label states sodium hypochlorite as the only active ingredient
and if you use only the small quantities mentioned in these instructions.
• Add six drops (1/8 teaspoon) of unscented bleach per gallon of
water, stir and let stand for 30 minutes.
If the water does not taste and smell of chlorine at that point, add
another dose and let stand another 15 minutes.
This treatment will not kill parasitic organisms.
• If you do not have a dropper, use a spoon and a square-ended
strip of paper or thin cloth about 1/4
inch by 2 inches. Put the strip in the
spoon with an end hanging down about 1/2 inch below the scoop of the
spoon. Place bleach in the spoon and
carefully tip it. Drops the size of
those from a medicine dropper will drip off the end of the strip.
Water treatment “purification” tablets release chlorine or iodine. They are inexpensive and available at most sporting
goods stores and some drugstores. Follow
the package directions carefully. NOTE:
People with hidden or chronic liver or kidney disease may be adversely affected
by iodized tablets and may experience worsened health problems as a result of
ingestion. Iodized tablets are safe for
healthy, physically fit adults and should be used only if you lack the supplies
for boiling, chlorination and distillation.
Distillation involves boiling water and collecting the vapor that
condenses back to water. The condensed
vapor may include salt or other impurities.
• Fill a pot halfway with water.
• Tie a cup to the handle on the pot’s lid so that the cup hangs
right side up when the lid is upside-down (make sure the cup is not dangling
into the water).
• Boil for 20 minutes. The
water that drips from the lid into the cup is distilled.
Managing
food supplies
1. It is
important to be sanitary when storing, handling and eating food.
•
Keep food in covered containers.
• Keep
cooking and eating utensils clean.
• Keep
garbage in closed containers and dispose outside. Bury garbage, if necessary. Avoid letting garbage accumulate inside, both
for fire and sanitation reasons.
• Keep
hands clean. Wash frequently with soap and
water that has been boiled or disinfected.
Be sure to wash:
– Before preparing or eating food.
– After toilet use.
– After participating in flood cleanup
activities.
– After handling articles contaminated with
floodwater or sewage.
2. Carefully
ration food for everyone except children and pregnant women. Most people can remain relatively healthy
with about half as much food as usual and can survive without any food for
several days.
3. Try to avoid
foods high in fat and protein, since they will make you thirsty. Try to eat salt-free crackers, whole grain
cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.
4. For emergency
cooking, heat food with candle warmers, chafing dishes and fondue pots, or use
a fireplace. Charcoal grills and camp
stoves are for outdoor use only.
5. Commercially
canned food can be eaten out of the can without warming. Before heating food in a can, remove the
label, thoroughly wash the can, and then disinfect them with a solution
consisting of one cup of bleach in five gallons of water, and open before
heating. Re-label your cans, including
expiration date, with a marker.
• Do
not eat foods from cans that are swollen, dented or corroded even though the
product may look okay to eat.
• Do
not eat any food that looks or smells abnormal, even if the can looks normal.
• Discard
any food not in a waterproof container if there is any chance that it has come
into contact with contaminated floodwater.
• Food containers
with screw-caps, snap-lids, crimped caps (soda pop bottles), twist caps, flip
tops, snap-open, and home canned foods should be discarded if they have come
into contact with floodwater because they cannot be disinfected. For infants, use only pre-prepared canned
baby formula. Do not use powdered formulas
with treated water.
6. Your
refrigerator will keep foods cool for about four hours without power if it is
left unopened. Add block or dry ice to
your refrigerator if the electricity will be off longer than four hours.
Thawed food usually can be eaten if it is still “refrigerator cold,” or
re-frozen if it still contains ice crystals.
To be safe, remember, “When in doubt, throw it out.” Discard any food that has been at room
temperature for two hours or more, and any food that has an unusual odor,
color, or texture.
If you are without power for a long period:
• Ask
friends to store your frozen foods in their freezers if they have electricity.
• Inquire if freezer space is available in a
store, church, school, or commercial freezer that has electrical service.
• Use dry ice, if available. Twenty-five pounds of dry ice will keep a
ten-cubic-foot freezer below freezing for 3-4 days. Use care when handling dry ice, and wear dry,
heavy gloves to avoid injury.
Staying in a mass care shelter
The American Red Cross and Salvation Army, assisted by community and
other disaster relief groups, work with local authorities to set up public
shelters in schools, municipal buildings and churches. While they often provide water, food,
medicine and basic sanitary facilities, you should plan to have your own
supplies as well—especially water. See the “Emergency Planning and Disaster
Supplies” chapter for more details.
1. Cooperate with
shelter managers and others staying in the shelter. Living with many people in a confined space
can be difficult and unpleasant.
2. Restrict
smoking to designated areas that are well-ventilated. Ensure that smoking materials are disposed of
safely.
3. If you go to
an emergency shelter, remember that alcoholic beverages and weapons are
prohibited in shelters. Pets, except for
service animals, are also not allowed in public shelters. See “Animals in
Disaster” chapter or contact your local humane society for additional
information.
Mitigation
One of the most effective means of protection is to take steps to make
your home and your household safe from the potential effects of disaster
like floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes. This is called mitigation. Ideally, mitigation measures are implemented
before disaster strikes since they can help protect your household as well as
your property. However, even after a
disaster strikes, actions can be taken to avoid or reduce the impact of the
next disaster.
1. If your home was damaged during the disaster,
consider implementing mitigation measures while you repair your home.
2. Be sure that all upgrade construction
projects comply with local building codes that pertain to seismic, flood, fire
and wind hazards. Make sure your
contractors follow the codes, including periodic building inspections of the
construction.
3. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider
purchasing flood insurance to reduce your risk to floods. Buying flood
insurance to cover the value of a building and its contents will not only
provide greater peace of mind, but will also speed recovery if a flood
occurs. You can call #1-888-FLOOD29 to
learn more about flood insurance.
Also
consider options for reducing your future flood losses (see Homeowner’s
Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to
Protect Your House From Flooding, FEMA Publication # 312). The appropriate
flood mitigation measure will depend upon the degree of flood risk to which
your home is subject.
For
moderate degrees of flooding, incorporating flood-proofing techniques to meet
National Flood Insurance Program criteria may be the most practical approach to
flood damage reduction. These techniques
include taking the following steps to protect your utilities from flood damages.
• Relocating electric, telephone and cable lines to the upper level of your home.
• Putting heating, ventilation and air conditioning units in the upper story or the attic.
• Anchoring or bolting oil tanks to prevent flotation.
If
the homes within your community have a history of severe, repetitive, flooding,
it may be necessary to consider more substantial measures. Consider the
following measures.
• Elevate the structure to or above the Base Flood Elevation.
• Relocate the structure to a new site located outside of the 100-year floodplain, outside of any regulatory erosion zones, and in conformance with any other applicable state or local land use regulations.
In
areas prone to severe flooding, it may be appropriate to work directly with
your local emergency management official to develop a community-based
approach. Additionally, your local
representative will be able to identify potential federal, state, and/or local
funding sources for the implementation of elevation, acquisition or relocation
activities. For example, FEMA offers three
state-administered grant programs to help States and local governments
significantly reduce or permanently eliminate future flood losses: the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Flood
Mitigation Assistance Program and Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program. Individuals may not apply directly to the
state or FEMA, but local governments or private non-profit organizations may
apply on behalf of local citizens.
4. If you live in an area
prone to high winds, make sure your roof is firmly secured to the main frame of
the residence. Consider
building a wind “Safe Room or Shelter” in your home to protect your household
(see the “Tornadoes” section in the “Thunderstorms” chapter). There are several additional steps you can
take to reduce wind damages and losses, including the following:
• Secure
light fixtures and other items that could fall or shake loose in such events.
• Move heavy or breakable objects to low shelves.
• Anchor water heaters and bolt them to wall studs.
• Purchase storm shutters for exterior windows and doors to protect
your home against high winds.
5. If you live in
an area likely to have an earthquake, consider using straps or other restraints
to secure cabinets, bookshelves, large appliances, (especially water heater and
furnace), and light fixtures to prevent
damage and injury.
6. Determine ways
to prevent other types of hazards in your home, such as installing a fire
sprinkler system.
7. Obtain
information specific to your area and home.
Ask local emergency management, fire and police departments, zoning and
building offices, the American Red Cross, hardware dealers, home inspectors,
structural engineers and architects.
8. Ask your local
government, a hardware dealer or a private home inspector for technical advice
on these and other mitigation measures.
9. Check the list
of available publications from FEMA mentioned in this section and at the end of
this guide.
Animals in Disaster
Disaster disrupts and affects everything in its path,
including pets, livestock, and wildlife.
The following section provides general guidelines for handling animals
in emergency and disaster situations.
Pets in disaster
Pets need to be included in your household disaster plan
since they depend on you for their safety and well being. It is important to consider and prepare for
your pets before disaster strikes.
Consider the following preparedness measures:
1. If you must
evacuate, do not leave pets behind—there is a chance they may not survive, or
get lost before you return.
2. With the
exception of service animals, pets are not typically permitted in emergency
shelters for health reasons.
3. Find out
before a disaster which local hotels and motels allow pets and where pet
boarding facilities are located. Be sure
to include some outside your local area in case local facilities have
closed.
4. Know that most
boarding facilities require veterinarian records to prove vaccinations are
current.
5. Only some
animal shelters will provide care for pets during emergency and disaster
situations. They should be used as a
last resort. Use friends and family or
keep them with you.
6. Be sure your
pet has proper identification tags securely fastened to the collar. A current photo of your pet will assist
identification should it become necessary.
7. Make sure you
have a secure pet carrier or leash for your pet—they may need to be restrained
during tense emergency situations.
8. Assemble a disaster kit for your pet. Include pet food, water, medications,
veterinary records, litter box, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit, other
supplies that may not be available at a later time, and an information sheet
with pet’s name and such things as behavior problems. Provide the kit to whomever assumes
responsibility for your pet during a disaster.
9. Call your
local emergency management office or animal shelter for further information.
Large animals in disaster
If you have large animals, such as horses or cattle on
your property, be sure to prepare before a disaster.
1. Evacuate
animals whenever possible. Map out
primary and secondary routes in advance.
2. Evacuation destinations should be prepared
with, or ready to obtain, food, water, veterinary care, and handling equipment.
3. Vehicles and trailers needed for transporting
and supporting each type of animal should be available along with experienced
handlers and drivers. It is best to
allow animals a chance to become accustomed to vehicular travel so they are
less frightened and easier to move.
4. In case evacuation is not possible, animal
owners must decide whether to move large animals to shelter or turn them
outside. This decision should be based
on the disaster type, quality and location of shelter, and the risks of turning
them outside.
5. All animals should have some form of
identification.
Wildlife in disaster
Disaster and life threatening situations will exacerbate
the unpredictable nature of wild animals.
To protect yourself and your household, learn how to deal with wildlife.
1. Be cautious
approaching wild animals during emergency situations. Do not corner them. Wild animals will likely feel threatened and
may endanger themselves by dashing off into floodwaters, fire, etc.
2. If wild animals are trapped or no natural
food source is available, you can leave food appropriate to individual animals
(i.e., animals could become trapped on an “island” after seeking high ground as
floodwaters rise).
3. Wild animals such as snakes,
opossums, and raccoons often seek refuge from floodwaters on upper levels of
homes and have been known to remain after water recedes. If you encounter animals in this
situation—open a window or other escape route and the animal will likely leave
on its own. Do not attempt to capture or
handle the animal. Should the animal
stay, call your local animal control office or animal shelter.
4. If you see an injured or stranded animal, do not
approach or attempt to help. Call your
local animal control office or animal shelter.
5. Animal carcasses can present serious health
risks. Contact your local emergency
management office or health department for specific help and instructions.
Animals after disaster
Wild or stray domestic animals can pose a danger during
or after many types of disaster. Remember, most animals are disoriented and
displaced, too. Do not corner an
animal. If an animal must be removed,
contact your local animal control authorities.
If any animal bites you, seek immediate medical attention. If a snake bites you, try to
accurately identify the type of snake so that, if poisonous, the correct
anti-venom can be administered. Do not
cut the wound or attempt to suck the venom out.
Certain animals may carry rabies. Although the virus is rare, care
should be taken to avoid contact with stray animals and rodents. Health departments can provide information on
the types of animals that carry rabies in your area.
Rats may also be a problem during and after many types of
disaster. Be sure to secure all food
supplies and contact your local animal control authorities to remove any animal
carcasses in the vicinity.
Contact your local emergency manager for more information on animals in
disaster. The Humane Society of the
Recovering from Disaster
This chapter offers some general advice on steps to take
after disaster strikes to begin putting your home, your community, and your
life back to normal.
Health and safety
Your first concern after a disaster is your household’s
health and safety.
1. Be aware of new hazards created by the
disaster. Watch for washed out roads,
contaminated buildings, contaminated water, gas leaks, broken glass, damaged
wires and slippery floors.
2. Be aware of exhaustion. Don’t try to do too much at once. Set priorities and pace yourself.
3. Drink plenty of clean water. Eat well and get enough rest.
4. Wear sturdy work boots and gloves. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and
clean water often when working in debris.
5. Inform local authorities about health and
safety hazards, including chemical releases, downed power lines, washed out
roads, smoldering insulation or dead animals.
Returning to a damaged home
Returning to a
damaged home can be both physically and mentally challenging. Above all, use
caution.
1. Keep a battery-powered radio with you so you
can listen for emergency updates.
2. Wear sturdy work boots and gloves.
3. Before going inside, walk carefully around
the outside of your home and check for loose power lines, gas leaks and
structural damage. If you smell gas, do
not enter the home and leave immediately.
Do not enter if floodwaters remain around the building. If you have any doubts about safety, have
your home inspected by a professional before entering.
4. If your home was damaged by fire, do not
enter until authorities say it is safe.
5. Check for cracks in the roof, foundation and
chimneys. If it looks like the building
may collapse, leave immediately.
6. A battery-powered flash light is the best source of light for inspecting a damaged home.
CAUTION: The flashlight should be turned
on outside before entering a damaged home—the battery may produce a spark that
could ignite leaking gas, if present.
7. Do not use oil, gas lanterns, candles or torches for
lighting inside a damaged home. Leaking
gas or other flammable materials may be present. Do not smoke.
Do not turn on the lights until you’re sure they’re safe to use.
8. Enter the home carefully and check for
damage. Be aware of loose boards and
slippery floors.
9. Watch out for
animals, especially poisonous snakes.
Use a stick to poke through debris.
10. If you smell gas or hear a
hissing or blowing sound, open a window and leave immediately. Turn off the main gas valve from the outside,
if you can. Call the gas company from a
neighbor’s residence. If you shut off
the gas supply at the main valve, you will need a professional to turn it back
on.
11. Check the electrical system
where visible and accessible. If you see
sparks, broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the
electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If, however, you are wet, standing in water
or unsure of your safety, do not touch anything electrical. Rather, leave the building and call for help.
12. Check appliances. If appliances are wet, turn off the
electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Then unplug appliances and let them dry
out. Have appliances checked by a
professional before using them again.
Also have the electrical system checked by an electrician before turning
the power back on.
13. Check the water and sewage
systems. If pipes are damaged, turn off
the main water valve.
14. Clean up spilled medicines,
bleaches and gasoline. Open cabinets
carefully. Be aware of objects that may
fall.
15. Try to protect your home
from further damage. Open windows and
doors to get air moving through.
16. Clean and disinfect
everything that got wet. Mud left behind
by floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.
17. If your basement has
flooded, pump it out gradually (about one third of the water per day) to avoid
damage. The walls may collapse and the
floor may buckle if the basement is pumped out while the surrounding ground is
still waterlogged.
18. Check with local authorities
before using any water; it could be contaminated. Wells should be pumped out and the water
tested by authorities before drinking.
19. Throw out fresh food,
cosmetics, and medicines that have come into contact with floodwaters.
20. Check refrigerated food for
spoilage—your power supply may have been disrupted during the emergency. Throw out all spoiled food and any food that
you suspect might be spoiled.
21. Call your insurance agent.
Take pictures of damages. Keep
good records of repair and cleaning costs.
Getting disaster assistance
Throughout the recovery period, it’s important to monitor local radio
or television reports and other media sources for information about where to
get emergency housing, food, first aid, clothing and financial assistance. Following is general information about the
kinds of assistance that may be available.
Direct assistance to individuals and families may come from any number
of organizations. The American Red Cross
is often stationed right at the scene to help people with their most immediate
medical, food and housing needs. Other
voluntary organizations, such as the Salvation Army, may also provide food,
shelter and supplies, and assist in cleanup efforts.
Church groups and synagogues are often involved as well.
In addition, social service agencies from local or state governments
may be available to help people in shelters or provide direct assistance to
families.
In the most severe disasters, the federal government is also called in
to help individuals and families with temporary housing, counseling (for
post-disaster trauma), low-interest loans and grants, and other assistance. Small businesses and farmers are also
eligible.
Most federal assistance becomes available when the President of the
• Discuss their disaster-related needs.
• Obtain information about disaster assistance
programs.
• Teleregister for assistance.
• Update registration information.
• Learn about measures for rebuilding that can
eliminate or reduce the risk of future loss.
• Learn how to complete the Small Business
Administration (SBA) loan application, which is also the form used to qualify
all individuals for low cost loans or grants, including those for repair or
replacement of damaged homes and furnishings.
• Request the status of their Disaster Housing
Application.
Persons can apply for assistance by telephone without going to a DRC by
dialing 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
Mental Health and Crisis Counseling
The emotional toll that disaster brings can sometimes be
even more devastating than the financial strains of damage and loss of home,
business or personal property.
Children and the elderly are special concerns in the aftermath of
disasters. Even individuals who
experience a disaster “second hand” through exposure to extensive media coverage
can be affected.
Crisis counseling programs often include community outreach,
consultation, and education. FEMA and
the state and local governments of the affected area may provide crisis
counseling assistance to help people cope with and recover from disaster. If
you feel you need assistance—get help.
Coping with disaster
You need to be aware of signs that one needs help in coping with the
stress of a disaster.
1. Things to remember when trying to understand disaster events.
• No
one who sees a disaster is untouched by it.
• It is normal to feel anxious about your own safety and that of your
family and close friends.
• Profound sadness, grief and anger are normal reactions to an
abnormal event.
• Acknowledging
your feelings helps you recover.
• Focusing
on your strengths and abilities will help you to heal.
• Accepting help from community programs and resources is healthy.
• We each have different needs and
different ways of coping.
• It
is common to want to strike back at people who have caused great pain. However,
nothing good is accomplished by hateful language or actions.
2. Signs that
adults need crisis counseling/stress management assistance.
• Difficulty
communicating thoughts.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Difficulty maintaining balance.
• Easily frustrated.
• Increased use of drugs/alcohol.
• Limited attention span.
• Poor work performance.
• Headaches/stomach
problems.
• Tunnel vision/muffled hearing.
• Colds or flu-like symptoms.
• Disorientation or confusion.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Reluctance to leave home.
• Depression, sadness.
• Feelings of hopelessness.
• Mood-swings and crying easily.
• Overwhelming guilt and self-doubt.
• Fear of crowds, strangers, or being alone.
3. Ways to ease disaster
related stress.
• Talk
with someone about your feelings—anger, sorrow, and other emotions—even though
it may be difficult.
• Seek help from professional counselors who deal with post-disaster stress.
• Don’t hold yourself responsible for the disastrous event or be frustrated because you feel that you cannot help directly in the rescue work.
• Take steps to promote your own physical and emotional healing by staying active in your daily life patterns or by adjusting them. This healthy outlook will help you and your household (e.g., healthy eating, rest, exercise, relaxation, meditation).
• Maintain a normal household and daily routine, limiting demanding responsibilities of you and your household.
• Spend time with family and friends.
• Participate in memorials, rituals, and use of symbols as a way to express feelings.
• Use existing support groups of family, friends, and church.
• Establish a family emergency plan. Feeling there is something you can do can be very comforting.
Helping children cope with disaster
Disasters
can leave children feeling frightened, confused and insecure. Whether a child has personally experienced
trauma, has merely seen the event on television or heard it discussed by
adults, it is important for parents and teachers to be informed and ready to
help if reactions to stress begin to occur.
Children respond
to trauma in many different ways. Some
may have reactions very soon after the event; others may seem to be doing fine
for weeks or months and then begin to show worrisome behavior. Knowing the signs that are common at
different ages can help parents and teachers recognize problems and respond appropriately.
Reassurance is
the key to helping children through a traumatic time. Very young children need a lot of cuddling,
as well as verbal support. Answer
questions about the disaster honestly, but don’t dwell on frightening details
or allow the subject to dominate family or classroom time indefinitely. Encourage children of all ages to express
emotions through conversation, drawing or painting and to find a way to help
others who were affected by the disaster.
Also, limit the amount of disaster related material (television, etc.)
your children are seeing or hearing and pay careful attention to how graphic it
is.
Try to maintain a
normal household or classroom routine and encourage children to participate in
recreational activity. Reduce your
expectations temporarily about performance in school or at home, perhaps by
substituting less demanding responsibilities for normal chores.
Additional
information about how to communicate with children can be found on the FEMA for
Kids website at www.fema.gov/kids.
Helping others
The
compassion and generosity of the American people is never more evident than
after a disaster. People want to
help. Here are some general guidelines
on helping others after a disaster.
1. In addition to the people you care for on a day-to-day
basis, consider the needs of your neighbors and people with special needs.
2. If
you want to volunteer, check with local organizations or listen to local news
reports for information about where volunteers are needed. Until volunteers are specifically requested,
stay away from disaster areas.
3. If you are needed in a disaster area, bring
your own food, water and emergency supplies.
This is especially important in cases where a large area has been
affected and emergency items are in short supply.
4. Do not drop off food, clothing or any other
item to a government agency or disaster relief organization unless a particular
item has been requested. Normally these
organizations do not have the resources to sort through the donated items.
5. You can give a check or money order to a
recognized disaster relief organization.
These groups are organized to process checks, purchase what is needed
and get it to the people who need it most.
6. If your company wants to donate emergency
supplies, donate a quantity of a given item or class of items (such as
nonperishable food) rather than a mix of different items. Also, determine where your donation is going,
how it’s going to get there, who’s going to unload it and how it’s going to be
distributed. Without sufficient
planning, much needed supplies will be left unused.
Natural
Hazards
FloodS
HURRICANEs
THUNDERSTORMS
Lightning
tornadoes
WINTER STORMS
EXTREME HEAT
emergency Water
shortages
EARTHQUAKEs
volcanoes
LANDSLIDEs/debris flows
Tsunamis
FIRE
wildland fires
Floods
Floods are one of the most common hazards in the
Flood effects can be very local, impacting a
neighborhood or community, or very large, effecting entire river basins and
multiple states.
Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if
you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks,
culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry
weather can flood. Every state is at
risk from this hazard.
What to do before a flood
1. Know the terms used to describe flooding:
• Flood Watch—Flooding is possible. Stay tuned
to NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio or television for information. Watches are issued 12 to 36 hours in advance
of a possible flooding event.
• Flash Flood Watch—Flash flooding is
possible. Be prepared to move to higher
ground. A flash flood could occur
without any warning. Listen to NOAA Weather
Radio or commercial radio or television for additional information.
• Flood Warning—Flooding is occurring or will
occur soon. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Flash Flood Warning— A flash flood is occurring.
Seek higher ground on foot immediately.
2. Ask local officials whether your property is in a flood-prone or
high-risk area. (Remember that floods
often occur outside high-risk areas.)
Ask about official flood warning signals and what to do when you hear
them. Also ask how you can protect your
home from flooding.
3. Identify dams
in your area and determine whether they
pose a hazard to you.
4. Purchase a NOAA Weather
Radio with battery backup and a tone-alert feature that automatically alerts
you when a Watch or Warning is issued (tone alert not available in some
areas). Purchase a battery-powered
commercial radio and extra batteries.
5. Be prepared to
evacuate. Learn your community’s flood evacuation routes
and where to find high ground. See
the “Evacuation” chapter for important information.
6. Talk to your
household about flooding. Plan a place
to meet your household in case you are separated from one another in a disaster
and cannot return home. Choose an
out-of-town contact for everyone to call to say they are okay. In some emergencies, calling out-of-state is
possible even when local phone lines are down.
7. Determine how
you would care for household members who may live elsewhere but might need your
help in a flood. Determine any special
needs your neighbors might have.
8. Prepare to
survive on your own for at least three days.
Assemble a disaster supply kit.
Keep a stock of food and extra drinking water. See the “Emergency Planning and Disaster
Supplies” chapter for more information.
9. Know how to shut
off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. Know where gas pilot lights are located and
how the heating system works.
10. Consider purchasing flood
insurance.
• Flood
losses are not covered under homeowners’ insurance policies.
• FEMA
manages the National Flood Insurance Program, which makes federally-backed
flood insurance available in communities that agree to adopt and enforce
floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood damage.
• Flood
insurance is available in most communities through insurance agents.
• There is a 30-day waiting period
before flood insurance goes into effect, so don’t delay.
• Flood insurance is available whether
the building is in or out of the identified flood-prone area.
11. Consider options for protecting
your property.
• Make a record of
your personal property. Take photographs
or videotapes of your belongings. Store
these documents in a safe place.
• Keep
insurance policies, deeds, property records and other important papers in a
safe place away from your home.
• Avoid
building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
• Elevate furnace,
water heater, and electric panel to higher floors or the attic if they are
susceptible to flooding.
• Install
“check valves” in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the
drains of your home.
• Construct
barriers such as levees, berms, and floodwalls to stop floodwater from entering
the building.
• Seal walls in
basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
• Call your local building department or
emergency management office for more information.
What to do during a flood
1. Be aware of
flash flood. If there is any possibility
of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
2. Listen to
radio or television stations for local information.
3. Be aware of
streams, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or
without such typical warning signs as rain clouds or heavy rain.
4. If local
authorities issue a flood watch, prepare to evacuate:
• Secure
your home. If you have time, tie
down or bring outdoor equipment and lawn furniture inside. Move essential items to the upper floors.
• If
instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Disconnect
electrical appliances. Do not touch
electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Fill
the bathtub with water in case water becomes contaminated or services cut
off. Before filling the tub, sterilize
it with a diluted bleach solution.
5. Do not walk
through moving water. Six inches of
moving water can knock you off your feet. If you must walk in a flooded area,
walk where the water is not moving. Use
a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
6. Do not drive into flooded areas.
Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing
loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many
vehicles. Two feet of water will wash away almost all vehicles. If floodwaters
rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground, if you can do
so safely. You and your vehicle can be
quickly swept away as floodwaters rise.
7. See the “Evacuation” chapter for important information.
What to do after a flood
1. Avoid
floodwaters. The water may be
contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage.
The water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed
power lines.
2. Avoid moving
water. Moving water only six inches deep
can sweep you off your feet.
3. Be aware of
areas where floodwaters have receded.
Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
4. Stay away from downed power lines and report
them to the power company.
5. Stay away from
designated disaster areas unless authorities ask for volunteers.
6. Return home
only when authorities indicate it is safe.
Stay out of buildings if surrounded by floodwaters. Use extreme caution when entering
buildings. There may be hidden damage,
particularly in foundations.
7. Consider your
family’s health and safety needs:
•
• Throw
away food that has come in contact with floodwaters.
• Listen
for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to
drink.
• Listen
to news reports for information about where to get assistance for housing,
clothing and food.
• Seek
necessary medical care at the nearest medical facility.
8. Service
damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as
possible. Damaged sewage systems are
serious health hazards.
9. Contact your insurance agent.
If your policy covers your situation, an adjuster will be assigned to visit
your home. To prepare:
• Take
photos of your belongings and your home or videotape them.
• Separate
damaged and undamaged belongings.
• Locate
your financial records.
• Keep
detailed records of cleanup costs.
10. If your residence has been
flooded obtain a copy of “Repairing Your Flooded Home” from the local American Red Cross
chapter.
11. See the “Recovering From
Disaster” chapter for more information.
Hurricanes
A hurricane is a type of tropical
cyclone, the generic term for a low pressure system that generally forms in the
tropics. The ingredients for a hurricane
include a pre-existing weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture, and
relatively light winds aloft. A typical cyclone is accompanied by
thunderstorms, and in the Northern Hemisphere, a counterclockwise circulation
of winds near the earth’s surface.
Tropical cyclones are classified as follows:
Tropical
Depression. An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined
surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less.
Sustained winds are defined as one-minute average wind measured at about 33 ft
(10 meters) above the surface.
Tropical Storm. An organized system of strong
thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of
39-73 mph (34-63 knots).
Hurricane. An intense tropical weather system of strong
thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained
winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher.
All
Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage to coastlines
and several hundred miles inland. Winds
can exceed 155 miles-per-hour.
Hurricanes and tropical storms can also spawn tornadoes and microbursts,
create surge along the coast, and cause
extensive damage due to inland flooding from trapped water.
Tornadoes most often occur in thunderstorms embedded in
rain bands well away from the center of the hurricane; however, they also occur
near the eye-wall. Typically, tornadoes
produced by tropical cyclones are relatively weak and short-lived but still
pose a threat.
A storm surge is a huge dome of water pushed on-shore by
hurricane and tropical storm winds.
Storm surges can reach 25 feet high and be 50-100 miles wide. Storm tide is a combination of the storm surge
and the normal tide (i.e., a 15 foot storm surge combined with a 2 foot normal
high tide over the mean sea level creates a 17 foot storm tide). These phenomena cause severe erosion and
extensive damage to coastal areas.
Despite
improved warnings and a decrease in the loss of life, property damage continues
to rise because an increasing number of people are living or vacationing near
coastlines. Those in hurricane-prone
areas need to be prepared for hurricanes and tropical storms.
Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind
speed, central pressure and damage potential (see chart below). Category Three and higher are considered
major hurricanes, though Category One and Two are still extremely dangerous and
warrant your full attention.
Inland/freshwater flooding from hurricanes
Hurricanes can produce widespread torrential rains. Floods are the deadly and destructive
result. Excessive rain can also trigger
landslides or mud slides, especially in mountainous regions. Flash flooding can occur due to the intense rainfall. Flooding on rivers and streams may persist
for several days or more after the storm.
The speed of the storm and the geography beneath the storm are the
primary factors regarding the amount of rain produced. Slow moving storms and tropical storms moving
into mountainous regions tend to produce more rain.
Between 1970 and 1999, more people lost their lives from freshwater
flooding associated with landfalling tropical cyclones than from any other
weather hazard related to tropical cyclones.
See the “Floods” chapter for more specific information
on flood related emergencies.
What to do before a hurricane
1. Know the
difference between “Watches” and “Warnings.”
• Hurricane/Tropical
Storm Watch—Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified
area, usually within 36 hours.
• Hurricane/Tropical
Storm Warning—Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are expected in the specified
area, usually within 24 hours.
• Short Term Watches
and Warnings—These warnings provide detailed information on specific hurricane
threats, such as flash floods and tornadoes.
Saffir-Simpson
Hurricane Scale
Scale Number Sustained Winds Damage Storm
(Category) (MPH) Surge
1 74-95 Minimal: Untied mobile homes,
vegetation
and signs. 4-5
feet
2 96-110 Moderate: All mobile homes, roofs,
small
crafts, flooding. 6-8
feet
3 111-130 Extensive: Small buildings, low-lying
roads
cut off. 9-12
feet
4 131-155 Extreme: Roofs destroyed, trees
down,
roads cut off, mobile homes
destroyed. Beach homes flooded. 13-18 feet
5 >155 Catastrophic: Most buildings
destroyed. Vegetation destroyed.
Major
roads cut off. Homes flooded. >18 feet
2. Listen for local radio or television weather
forecasts. Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup and a tone-alert
feature that automatically alerts you when a Watch or Warning is issued (tone
alert is not available in some areas).
Purchase a battery-powered commercial radio and extra batteries as well
because information on other events will be broadcast by the media.
3. Ask your local
emergency management office about community evacuation plans relating to your
neighborhood. Learn evacuation
routes. Determine where you would go and
how you would get there if you needed to evacuate. Sometimes alternate routes
are desirable.
4. Talk to your
household about hurricane issues. Create
a household disaster plan. Plan to meet
at a place away from your residence in case you are separated. Choose an out-of-town contact for everyone to
call to say they are safe.
5. Determine the
needs of your household members who may live elsewhere but need your help in a
hurricane. Consider the special needs of
neighbors, such as people that are disabled or those with limited sight or
vision problems.
6. Prepare to
survive on your own for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supply
kit. Keep a stock of food and extra
drinking water. See the “Emergency
Planning and Disaster Supplies” and “Evacuation” chapters for more information.
7. Make plans to
secure your property. Permanent storm
shutters offer the best protection for windows.
A second option is to board up windows with 5/8" marine plywood,
cut to fit and ready to install. Tape
does not prevent windows from breaking.
8. Learn how to
shut off utilities and where gas pilots and water mains are located.
9. Have your home inspected for compliance with local
building codes. Many of the roofs
destroyed by hurricanes were not constructed or retrofitted according to
building codes. Installing straps or
additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure will
substantially reduce roof damage.
10. Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed. Dead limbs or trees could cause personal
injury or property damage. Clear loose
and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
11. If you have a boat,
determine where to secure it in an emergency.
12. Consider flood
insurance. Purchase insurance well in
advance—there is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance takes effect.
13. Make a record of your
personal property. Take photographs or
videotapes of your belongings. Store
these documents in a safe place.
What to do during a hurricane threat
1. Listen to
radio or television newscasts. If a hurricane “Watch” is issued, you typically
have 24 to 36 hours before the hurricane hits land.
2. Talk with
household members. Make sure everyone
knows where to meet and who to call, in case you are separated. Consider the needs of relatives and neighbors
with special needs.
3. Secure your
home. Close storm shutters. Secure outdoor objects or bring them
indoors. Moor your boat if time permits.
4. Gather several
days’ supply of water and food for each household member. Water systems may become contaminated or
damaged. Sterilize (with diluted bleach
solution of one part bleach to ten parts water) and fill the bathtub to ensure
a supply of safe water in case you are
unable or told not to evacuate. Refer to
the “Shelter and Emergency Planning” and “Disaster Supplies” chapters for
important information.
5. If you are
evacuating, take your disaster supply kit with you to the shelter. Remember that alcoholic beverages and weapons
are prohibited within shelters. Also,
pets are not allowed in a public shelter due to health reasons. See the “Animals in Disaster” chapter and
contact your local humane society for additional information.
6. Prepare to
evacuate. Fuel your car—service stations
may be closed after the storm. If you do
not have a car, make arrangements for transportation with a friend or
relative. Review evacuation routes. If instructed, turn off utilities at the main
valves.
7. Evacuate to an
inland location, if:
• Local
authorities announce an evacuation and you live in an evacuation zone.
• You
live in a mobile home or temporary structure—they are particularly hazardous
during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
• You live in a
high-rise. Hurricane winds are stronger
at higher elevations.
• You live on the
coast, on a floodplain near a river or inland waterway.
• You feel you are in
danger.
8. When authorities order an evacuation:
• Leave immediately.
• Follow evacuation routes announced by local
officials.
• Stay away from coastal areas, riverbanks and
streams.
• Tell others where you are going.
9. If you are not
required or are unable to evacuate, stay indoors during the hurricane and away
from windows and glass doors. Keep
curtains and blinds closed. Do not be
fooled if there is a lull, it could be the eye of the storm—winds will pick up
again.
• Turn off utilities if told to do so by
authorities.
• If not instructed to turn off, turn the
refrigerator to its coldest setting and keep closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
10. In strong winds, follow
these rules:
• Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or
hallway.
• Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors.
• In a two-story residence, go to an interior
first-floor room, such as a bathroom or closet.
• In a multiple-story building, go to the first or
second floors and stay in interior rooms away from windows.
• Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy
object.
11. Avoid using the phone except
for serious emergencies. Local
authorities need first priority on telephone lines.
12. See the “Evacuation” chapter
for important information.
What to do after a hurricane
1. Stay where you
are if you are in a safe location until local authorities say it is safe to
leave. If you evacuated the community,
do not return to the area until authorities say it is safe to return.
2. Keep tuned to
local radio or television stations for information about caring for your
household, where to find medical help, how to apply for financial assistance,
etc.
3. Drive only
when necessary. Streets will be filled
with debris. Roads may have weakened and
could collapse. Do not drive on flooded
or barricaded roads or bridges. Closed
roads are for your protection. As little
as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle—two feet
of water will carry most cars away.
4. Do not drink
or prepare food with tap water until notified by officials that it is safe to
do so.
5. Consider your
family’s health and safety needs. Be
aware of symptoms of stress and fatigue.
Keep your household together and seek crisis counseling if you have
need. See the “Mental Health and Crisis
Counseling” section of the “Recovering from Disaster” chapter for more
information.
6. Talk with your children about what has happened and how they can
help during the recovery. Being involved
will help them deal with the situation.
Consider the needs of your neighbors.
People often become isolated during hurricanes.
7. Stay away from disaster areas unless local authorities request
volunteers. If you are needed, bring
your own drinking water, food and sleeping gear.
8. Stay away from
riverbanks and streams until potential flooding has passed. Do not allow
children, especially under the age of 13, to play in flooded areas. There is a high risk of injury or drowning in
areas that may appear safe.
9. Stay away from
moving water. Moving water only six
inches deep can sweep you off your feet.
Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed
power lines.
10. Stay away from downed power
lines and report them to the power company. Report broken gas, sewer or water
mains to local officials.
11. Don't use candles or other open flames indoors. Use a flashlight to
inspect damage.
12. Set up a manageable schedule
to repair property.
13. Contact your insurance agent. An adjuster will be assigned to visit your
home. To prepare:
• Take photos of your belongings and your home or videotape them.
• Separate damaged and undamaged belongings.
• Locate your financial records.
• Keep detailed records of cleanup costs.
14. Consider building a “Safe Room or Shelter” to
protect your household. See the
“Thunderstorms” chapter for additional information in the “Tornadoes”
section.
15. See the “Recovering From
Disaster” chapter for more important information.
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are very common and affect great numbers
of people each year. Despite their small
size in comparison to hurricanes and winter storms, all thunderstorms are
dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces
lightning. Other associated dangers of
thunderstorms include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding. Flash flooding is responsible for more
fatalities— more than 140 annually— than any other thunderstorm-associated
hazard.
Some thunderstorms do not produce rain that reaches the ground. These
are generically referred to as dry thunderstorms and are most prevalent in the
western
What to do before thunderstorms approach
1. Know the terms
used by weather forecasters:
• Severe Thunderstorm
Watch— Tells you when and where severe
thunderstorms are likely to occur. Watch
the sky and stay tuned to radio or television to know when warnings are
issued.
• Severe Thunderstorm
Warning— Issued when severe weather has been reported by
spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings
indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the
storm.
2. Know
thunderstorm facts:
• Thunderstorms may occur singly, in
clusters, or in lines.
• Some of the most severe weather occurs when
a single thunderstorm affects one location for an extended time.
• Thunderstorms
typically produce heavy rain for a brief period, anywhere from 30 minutes to an
hour.
• Warm, humid conditions are very favorable for
thunderstorm development.
• A typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter
and lasts an average of 30 minutes.
• Of the estimated 100,000 thunderstorms each
year in the
• A thunderstorm is classified as severe if it produces hail at least three-quarters of an inch in diameter, has winds of 58 miles per hour or higher, or produces a tornado.
3. Know the
calculation to determine how close you are to a thunderstorm:
• Count the number of seconds between a flash of lightning and the
next clap of thunder. Divide this number
by 5 to determine the distance to the lightning in miles.
4. Remove dead or rotting trees and branches
that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
5. When a thunderstorm approaches, secure
outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage. Shutter windows, if possible, and secure outside doors. If
shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
Lightning
The ingredient that defines a thunderstorm is
lightning. Since lightning creates
thunder, a storm producing lightning is called a thunderstorm.
Lightning occurs during all thunderstorms. Lightning results from the buildup and
discharge of electrical energy between positively and negatively charged areas.
The
unpredictability of lightning increases the risk to individuals and
property. In the
When thunderstorms threaten your area, get inside a home, building or
hard top automobile (not a convertible)
and stay away from metallic objects and fixtures.
1. If you are
inside a home:
• Avoid showering or bathing.
Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Avoid using a corded telephone, except for emergencies. Cordless
and cellular telephones are safe to use.
• Unplug appliances and
other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power
surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Use your battery
operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
2. If outside, with no time to
reach a safe location, follow these recommenations:
• In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under
a thick growth of small trees.
• In open areas, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods.
• Do not stand under a natural lightning rod, such as a tall,
isolated tree in an open area.
• Do not stand on a hilltop, in an open field, on the beach or in a
boat on the water.
• Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
• Get away from open water.
If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter
immediately.
• Get away from anything
metal— tractors, farm equipment,
motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs and bicycles.
• Stay away from wire
fences, clotheslines, metal pipes, rails and other metallic paths that could
carry lightning to you from some distance away.
• If you feel your hair
stand on end (which indicates that lightning is about to strike), squat low to
the ground on the balls of your feet.
Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible
and minimize your contact with the ground.
DO NOT lie flat on the ground.
3. Remember the
following facts and safety tips about lightning.
Facts:
• Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far
as 10 miles away from any rainfall.
• Lightning-strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be
attended to immediately. If breathing has stopped, begin mouth-to-mouth
resuscitation. If the heart has stopped, a trained person should administer
CPR. If the victim has a pulse and is breathing, look for other possible
injuries. Check for burns where the lightning entered and left the body. Be alert
also for nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing or eyesight.
Contact your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter
for information on CPR and first aid classes.
• “Heat lightning” is actually lightning from a thunderstorm too far
away for thunder to be heard. However,
the storm may be moving in your direction!
• Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught
outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening.
• Many fires in the western
• Lightning can occur from cloud-to-cloud, within a cloud,
cloud-to-ground, or cloud-to-air.
• Your chances of being struck by lightning are estimated to be 1 in
600,000 but could be even less by following safety tips.
Safety Tips:
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely.
• Remember the 30/30 lightning safety rule – Go indoors if, after
seeing lighting, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the
last clap of thunder.
• Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from
lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle
provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
Although you may be injured if
lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms,
tornadoes can uproot trees, destroy buildings and turn harmless objects into
deadly missiles. They can devastate a neighborhood in seconds.
A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends to the
ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 miles per hour. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile
wide and 50 miles long. Every state is
at some risk from this hazard.
Tornado facts
1. A tornado is a
violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground.
2. Tornadoes are capable
of destroying homes and vehicles and can cause fatalities.
3. Tornadoes may strike quickly,
with little or no warning.
4. Tornadoes may
appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms
in the funnel. The average tornado moves
SW to NE but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
5. The average
forward speed is 30 mph but may vary from stationary to 70 mph with rotating
winds that can reach 300 miles per hour.
6. Tornadoes can
accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
7. Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over
water.
8. Tornadoes are
most frequently reported east of the
9. In the southern
states, peak tornado season is March through May, while peak months in the
northern states are during the late spring and early summer.
10. Tornadoes are most likely to
occur between
What to do before tornadoes threaten
1. Know the terms
used to describe tornado threats:
• Tornado
Watch— Tornadoes are possible. Remain
alert for approaching storms. Listen to
your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio or local radio/television outlets for
updated reports.
• Tornado
Warning — A tornado has been sighted or
indicated by weather radar. Take shelter
immediately.
2. Ask your local emergency management office
or American Red Cross chapter about the tornado threat in your area.
Ask about community warning signals.
3. Purchase a
NOAA Weather Radio with a battery backup and tone-alert feature that
automatically alerts you when a Watch or Warning is issued (tone alert not
available in some areas). Purchase a
battery-powered commercial radio and extra batteries as well.
4. Know the
county or parish in which you live.
Counties and parishes are used in Watches and Warnings to identify the
location of tornadoes.
5. Determine
places to seek shelter, such as a basement or storm cellar. If an underground shelter is not available,
identify an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor.
6. Practice going to your shelter with your household.
7. Know the
locations of designated shelters in places where you and your household spend
time, such as public buildings, nursing homes and shopping centers. Ask local officials whether a registered
engineer or architect has inspected your children’s schools for shelter space.
8. Ask your local
emergency manager or American Red Cross chapter if there are any public safe
rooms or shelters nearby. See the “Safe
Room and Shelter” section at the end of this chapter for more information.
9. Assemble a
disaster supply kit. Keep a stock of
food and extra drinking water. See the
“Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies” and “Evacuation” chapters for more
information.
10. Make a record of your
personal property. Take photographs or
videotapes of your belongings. Store
these documents in a safe place.
What to do during a tornado watch
1. Listen to NOAA
Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest
information.
2. Be alert for approaching storms.
If you see any revolving funnel shaped clouds, report them immediately
by telephone to your local police department or sheriff’s office.
3. Watch for tornado danger signs:
• Dark,
often greenish sky
• Large
hail
• A large,
dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
• Loud
roar, similar to a freight train
Caution:
• Some tornadoes are clearly visible, while rain or nearby
low-hanging clouds obscure others.
• Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that little, if any,
advance warning is possible.
• Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may
become very still.
• A cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a
funnel is not visible.
• Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It is
not uncommon to see
clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado.
4. Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as
auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways, supermarkets or shopping malls.
5. Be prepared to take shelter immediately.
Gather household members and pets. Assemble supplies to take to the shelter
such as flashlight, battery-powered radio, water, and first aid kit.
What to do during a tornado warning
When a tornado has been sighted, go to your shelter immediately.
1. In a residence or small building, move to a
pre-designated shelter, such as a basement,
storm cellar or “Safe Room or Shelter.”
2. If
there is no basement, go to an interior room on the lower level (closets,
interior hallways). Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
Get under a sturdy table and use arms to protect head and neck. Stay there
until the danger has passed.
3. Do
not open windows. Use the time to seek
shelter.
4. Stay
away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center of the room. Stay
away from corners because they attract debris.
5. In
a school, nursing home, hospital, factory or shopping center, go to
predetermined shelter areas. Interior
hallways on the lowest floor are usually safest. Stay away from windows and
open spaces.
6. In a high-rise building, go to a small,
interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
7. Get
out of vehicles, trailers and mobile homes immediately and go to the lowest
floor of a sturdy nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little
protection from tornadoes.
8. If caught
outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover
your head with your hands. Be aware of potential for flooding.
9. Do not get under
an overpass or bridge. You are safer in
a low, flat location.
10. Never try to
outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck; instead, leave
the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
Tornadoes are erratic and move swiftly.
11. Watch out for
flying debris. Flying debris from
tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.
What to do after a tornado
1. Look out for broken glass and downed power
lines.
2. Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured
persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury. If you must move an unconscious person, first
stabilize the neck and back, then call for help immediately.
• If the victim is not breathing, carefully position the victim for artificial respiration, clear the airway and commence mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
• Maintain body temperature with blankets. Be sure the victim does not become
overheated.
• Never try to feed liquids to an unconscious
person.
3. Use caution when entering a damaged building.
Be sure that walls, ceiling and roof are in place and that the structure rests firmly
on the foundation. Wear sturdy work boots and gloves.
4. See the “Recovering From Disaster” chapter
for more important information.
Wind “Safe Room and Shelter”
Extreme windstorms in many parts of the country pose a serious threat
to buildings and their occupants.
Your residence may be built “to code,” but that does not mean that it
can withstand winds from extreme events like tornadoes or major hurricanes.
The purpose of a wind shelter or “Safe Room” is to provide a space
where you and your household can seek refuge that provides a high level of
protection. You can build a shelter in
one of the several places in your home:
• In your basement
• Beneath a concrete slab-on-grade foundation or garage floor
• In
an interior room on the first floor
Shelters built below ground level provide the greatest protection, but
a shelter built in a first-floor interior room can also provide the necessary
protection. Below-ground shelters must
be designed to avoid accumulating water during the heavy rains that often
accompany severe windstorms.
To protect its occupants, an in-house shelter must be built to
withstand high winds and flying debris, even if the rest of the residence is
severely damaged or destroyed.
Therefore:
• The shelter must be adequately anchored to
resist overturning and uplift.
• The walls, ceiling, and door of the shelter
must withstand wind pressure and resist penetration by windborne objects and
falling debris.
• The connections between all parts of the
shelter must be strong enough to resist the wind.
• If sections of either interior or exterior
residence walls are used as walls of the shelter, they must be separated from
the structure of the residence, so that damage to the residence will not cause
damage to the shelter.
If you are concerned about wind hazards where you live, especially if
you live in high-risk areas, you should consider building a shelter. Publications are available from FEMA to
assist in determining if you need a shelter and how to construct a
shelter. Contact the FEMA distribution
center for a copy of Taking Shelter from the Storm (L-233 for the
brochure and FEMA-320 for the booklet with complete construction plans).
Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire
region. Even areas that normally
experience mild winters can be hit with a major snowstorm or extreme cold. The impacts include flooding, storm surge,
closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia.
You can protect yourself and your household from the many hazards of
winter by planning ahead.
What to do before a winter storm threatens
1. Know the terms used by weather
forecasters:
• Freezing rain—Rain that freezes when it hits the ground,
creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
• Sleet—Rain
that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads
to freeze and become slippery.
• Winter
Storm Watch—A winter storm is possible in your area.
• Winter
Storm Warning—A winter storm is occurring, or will soon occur in your area.
• Blizzard
Warning—Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles-per-hour or greater
and considerable falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a
quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
• Frost/Freeze
Warning—Below freezing temperatures are expected.
2. Prepare to
survive on your own for at least three days.
Assemble a disaster supply kit.
Be sure to include winter specific items such as rock salt to melt ice
on walkways, sand to improve traction, snow shovels and other snow removal
equipment. Keep a stock of food and
extra drinking water. See the “Emergency
Planning and Disaster Supplies” and “Evacuation” chapters for more information.
3. Prepare for
possible isolation in your home:
• Have
sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off.
• Have emergency heating equipment and fuel (a gas fireplace or a wood burning stove or fireplace) so you can keep at least one room of your residence livable. (Be sure the room is well ventilated.) If a thermostat controls your furnace and your electricity is cut off by a storm, you will need emergency heat.
• Kerosene
heaters are another emergency heating option.
• Store
a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
• Keep
fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure your household knows how to use them.
• Never
burn charcoal indoors.
4. Winterize your home to extend
the life of your fuel supply.
• Insulate
walls and attics.
• Caulk
and weather-strip doors and windows.
• Install
storm windows or cover windows with plastic.
5. Maintain
several days’ supply of medicines, water, and food that needs no cooking or
refrigeration.
What to do during a winter storm
1. Listen to the
radio or television for weather reports and emergency information.
2. Eat
regularly and drink ample fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
3. Dress for the
season:
• Wear
several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one
layer of heavy clothing. The outer
garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Mittens are warmer than gloves.
• Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
4. Be careful
when shoveling snow. Over-exertion can
bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going
outside and don’t overexert yourself.
5. Watch for
signs of frostbite: loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities
such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help
immediately
6. Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory
loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent
exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia
are detected, get the victim to a warm location, remove any wet clothing, warm
the center of the body first, and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the
victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible.
7. When at home:
• Conserve
fuel if necessary by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily
“close off” heat to some rooms.
• When
using kerosene heaters, maintain ventilation to avoid build-up of toxic
fumes. Refuel kerosene heaters outside
and keep them at least three feet from flammable objects.
Winter driving
About 70 percent of winter deaths related to snow and ice occur in
automobiles. Consider public transportation
if you must travel. If you travel by
car, travel in the day, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your
schedule. Stay on main roads; avoid
back-road shortcuts.
1. Winterize your
car. This includes a battery check,
antifreeze, wipers and windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat,
lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, oil
level, and tires. Consider snow tires,
snow tires with studs, or chains. Keep your car’s gas tank full.
2. Carry a
“winter car kit” in the trunk of your car.
The kit should include:
• Shovel
• Windshield
scraper
• Battery-powered
radio
• Flashlight
• Extra
batteries
• Water
• Snack
food
• Mittens
• Hat
• Blanket
• Tow
chain or rope
• Tire
chains
• Bag
of road salt and sand
• Fluorescent
distress flag
• Booster
cables
• Road
maps
• Emergency
flares
• Cellular
telephone or two-way radio, if available.
3. If a blizzard
traps you in your car:
• Pull
off the highway. Turn on hazard lights
and hang a distress flag from the radio aerial or window.
• Remain in your
vehicle where rescuers are most
likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a
building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful: distances are distorted by
blowing snow. A building may seem close
but be too far to walk to in deep snow.
• Run
the engine and heater about ten minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a window
slightly for ventilation. This will
protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust
pipe.
• Exercise to maintain body heat, but
avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use
road maps, seat covers and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for
a blanket.
• Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to
look for rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Be careful not to waste battery
power. Balance electrical energy
needs—the use of lights, heat and radio—with supply.
• At
night, turn on the inside light so work crews or rescuers can see you.
• If
stranded in a remote area, spread a
large cloth over the snow to attract
attention of rescue personnel who
may be surveying the area by airplane.
• Once
the blizzard passes, you may need to leave the car and proceed on foot.
Extreme Heat (Heat Wave)
Heat kills by pushing the human body
beyond its limits. Under normal conditions,
the body’s internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools
the body. However, in extreme heat and
high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to
maintain a normal temperature.
Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been
overexposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical
condition. The elderly, young children,
and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to succumb to extreme
heat.
Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses
include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. Consequently, people living in urban areas
may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than those
living in rural areas. Also, asphalt and
concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can
produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the “urban heat island
effect.”
What to do before an extreme heat emergency
1. Know the terms
associated with extreme heat:
• Heat
wave—Prolonged period of excessive heat, often combined with excessive
humidity.
• Heat
index—A number in degrees Fahrenheit (F) that tells how hot it feels when
relative humidity is added to the air temperature. Exposure to full sunshine can increase the heat
index by 15 degrees.
• Heat
cramps—Muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Although heat cramps are the least severe,
they are often the first signal that the body is having trouble with the heat.
• Heat exhaustion—Typically occurs when
people exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place where body fluids are
lost through heavy sweating. Blood flow
to the skin increases, causing blood flow to decrease to the vital organs. This results in a form of mild shock. If not treated, the victim’s condition will
worsen. Body temperature will keep
rising and the victim may suffer heat stroke.
• Heat
stroke—Heat stroke is life-threatening.
The victim’s temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool
the body, stops working. The body
temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body
is not cooled quickly.
• Sun
stroke—Another term for heat stroke.
2. Consider the
following preparedness measures when faced with the possibility of extreme
heat.
• Install
window air conditioners snugly, insulate if necessary.
• Close any floor heat registers nearby and use a circulating or box fan to spread cool air.
• Check
air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
• Install
temporary reflectors, such as aluminum foil covered cardboard, to reflect heat
back outside and be sure to weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.
• Cover
windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or
louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by
up to 80 percent. Consider keeping storm
windows up all year.
3. See
the “Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies”
chapter for more information.
What to do during extreme heat or a heat wave
emergency
1. Stay indoors
as much as possible.
• If
air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the
sunshine.
• Remember
that electric fans do not cool, they just blow hot air around.
2. Eat
well-balanced, light and regular meals.
Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
3. Drink plenty
of water regularly even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Persons
who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease, are on fluid-restrictive
diets, or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before
increasing liquid intake.
4. Limit intake
of alcoholic beverages.
• Although beer and
alcoholic beverages appear to
satisfy thirst, they actually cause further body dehydration.
5. Never leave
children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
6. Dress in
loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
• Lightweight,
light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight and helps maintain normal
body temperature.
7. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
8. Avoid too much sunshine.
• Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool
itself. Use a sunscreen lotion with a
high SPF (sun protection factor) rating (i.e., 15 or greater).
9. Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme
heat and take frequent breaks.
10. Spend at least two hours per
day in an air-conditioned place. If your
home is not air conditioned, consider spending the warmest part of the day in
public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and
other community facilities.
11.
Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have
air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
First-aid for heat-induced illnesses
1. Sunburn
• Symptoms: Skin redness and pain, possible swelling,
blisters, fever, headaches.
• First
Aid: Take a shower, using soap, to
remove oils that may block pores, preventing the body from cooling
naturally. If blisters occur, apply dry,
sterile dressings and get medical attention.
2. Heat cramps
• Symptoms:
Painful spasms, usually in leg and abdominal muscles. Heavy sweating.
• First
Aid: Get the victim out to a cooler
location. Lightly stretch and gently
massage affected muscles to relieve spasm.
Give sips of up to a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. Do not give liquids with caffeine or
alcohol. If nauseous, discontinue
liquids.
3. Heat
exhaustion
• Symptoms:
Heavy sweating and skin may be cool, pale or flushed. Weak pulse. Normal body temperature is
possible but temperature will likely rise.
Fainting or dizziness, nausea or vomiting, exhaustion and headaches are
possible.
• First Aid:
Get victim to lie down in a cool place.
Loosen or remove clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air-conditioned place.
Give sips of water if victim is conscious. Be sure water is consumed slowly.
Give half glass of cool water every 15 minutes.
If nausea occurs, discontinue. If
vomiting occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Heat stroke
(sun stroke)
• Symptoms:
High body temperature
(105+). Hot, red, dry skin. Rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow
breathing. Possible
unconsciousness. Victim will likely not
sweat unless victim was sweating from recent strenuous activity.
• First Aid: Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 911 or emergency medical services or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move victim to a cooler environment. Remove clothing. Try a cool bath, sponging or wet sheet to reduce body temperature. Watch for breathing problems. Use extreme caution. Use fans and air conditioners.
Emergency Water Shortage
An emergency water shortage can be caused by prolonged drought, poor water
supply management or contamination of a surface water supply source or aquifer.
A drought is a period of abnormally dry
weather that persists long enough to produce serious effects (crop damage,
water supply shortages, etc.). The
severity of the drought depends upon the degree of moisture deficiency, the
duration, and the size of the affected area.
Drought can affect vast territorial regions and large population
numbers. In effect, drought is a silent
but very damaging phenomenon that is rarely lethal but enormously
destructive. Drought can ruin local and
regional economies that are agricultural and tourism based. Drought also creates environmental conditions
that increase
risk of other hazards such as fire, flash flood, and possible landslides/debris
flow.
Poor water quality management can result in the demand for water
exceeding the available supply. This can be exacerbated by fluctuations in
regional precipitation, excessive water demand, or rapid residential
development.
Emergency water shortages can also be caused by contamination of a
water supply. A major spill of a petroleum product or hazardous chemical on a
major river can force communities to shut down water treatment plants. Although
typically more localized, the contamination of ground water or an aquifer can
also disrupt the use of well water.
Water conservation
Conserving water is very important during emergency water
shortages. Water saved by one user may
be enough to protect the critical needs of others. Irrigation practices can be
changed to use less water or crops that use less water can be planted. Cities and towns can ration water, factories
can change manufacturing methods, and individuals can practice water-saving
measures to reduce consumption. If
everyone reduces water use during a drought, more water will be available to
share.
1. Practice
indoor water conservation:
General
• Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for
it. Use it to water your indoor plants
or garden.
• Repair
dripping faucets by replacing washers.
One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year!
Bathroom
• Check all plumbing for leaks.
Have leaks repaired by a plumber.
• Install
a toilet displacement device to cut down on the amount of water needed to flush. Place a one-gallon plastic jug of water into
the tank to displace toilet flow (do not use a brick, it may dissolve and loose
pieces may cause damage to the internal parts).
Be sure installation does not interfere with the operating parts.
• Consider
purchasing a low-volume toilet that uses less than half the water of older
models. NOTE: In many areas, low-volume
units are required by law.
• Replace
your showerhead with an ultra-low-flow version.
• Do not take
baths—take short showers—only turn on water to get wet and lather and then
again to rinse off.
• Place
a bucket in the shower to catch excess water for watering plants.
• Don’t let the water
run while brushing your teeth,
washing your face or shaving.
• Don't
flush the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose
of tissues, insects, and other similar waste in the trash rather than the
toilet.
Kitchen
• Operate
automatic dishwashers only when they are fully loaded. Use the “light wash” feature if available to
use less water.
• Hand
wash dishes by filling two containers—one with soapy water and the other with
rinse water containing a small amount of chlorine bleach.
• Most
dishwashers can clean soiled dishes very well, so dishes do not have to be
rinsed before washing. Just remove large
particles of food, and put the soiled dishes in the dishwasher.
• Store
drinking water in the refrigerator.
Don’t let the tap run while you are waiting for water to cool.
• Do
not waste water waiting for it to get hot.
Capture it for other uses such as plant watering or heat it on the stove
or in a microwave.
• Do
not use running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator,
or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Clean
vegetables in a pan filled with water rather than running water from the tap.
• Kitchen sink disposals require a lot of water to operate properly. Start a compost pile as an alternate method of disposing of food waste, or simply dispose of food in the garbage.
Laundry
• Operate automatic clothes washers only when they are fully loaded
or set the water level for the size of your load.
Long-term indoor water conservation
• Retrofit all household faucets by installing aerators with flow
restrictors.
• Consider
installing an instant hot water heater on your sink.
• Insulate
your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking if you have
a sudden and unexpected spell of freezing weather.
• If
you are considering installing a new heat pump or air-conditioning system, the
new air-to-air models are just as efficient as the water-to-air type and do not
waste water.
• Install
a water-softening system only when the minerals in the water would damage your
pipes. Turn the softener off while on
vacation.
• When
purchasing a new appliance, choose one that is more energy and water efficient.
2. Practice outdoor water conservation:
General
• If you have a well at
home, check your pump periodically. If
the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a
leak.
Car washing
• Use a shut-off nozzle
on your hose that can be adjusted down to a fine spray, so that water flows
only as needed.
• Consider
using a commercial car wash that recycles water. If you wash your own car, park on the grass
so that you will be watering it at the same time.
Lawn Care
• Don’t over water your lawn.
A heavy rain eliminates the need for watering for up to two weeks. Most of the year, lawns only need one inch of
water per week.
• Water
in several short sessions rather than one long one in order for your lawn to
better absorb moisture.
• Position
sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.
• Avoid
sprinklers that spray a fine mist. Mist
can evaporate before it reaches the lawn.
Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they
operate properly.
• Raise
the lawn mower blade to at least three inches, or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper,
shades the root system, and holds soil moisture.
• Plant
drought-resistant lawn seed.
• Avoid
over-fertilizing your lawn. Applying
fertilizer increases the need for water.
Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.
• Use
a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from your
driveway or sidewalk.
• Do
not leave sprinklers or hoses unattended.
A garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours.
Pool
• Consider installing a new water-saving pool filter. A single back flushing with a traditional
filter uses 180 to 250 gallons of water.
• Cover
pools and spas to reduce evaporation of water.
Long term outdoor conservation
• Plant
native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees. Once established, they do not need water as
frequently and usually will survive a dry period without watering. Small plants require less water to become
established. Group plants together based
on similar water needs.
• Install irrigation devices that are the most water efficient for each use. Micro and drip irrigation and soaker hoses are examples of efficient devices.
• Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water.
• Avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.
• Avoid installing ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use recycled water.
Participate in
public water conservation programs of your local government, utility or water
management district. Follow water
conservation and water shortage rules in effect. Remember, you are included in the
restrictions even if your water comes from a private well. Be sure to support community efforts that
help develop and promote a water conservation ethic.
Contact your
local water authority, utility district, or local emergency management agency
for information specific to your area.
Earthquakes
An earthquake is a sudden shaking of
the earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth’s
surface. Earthquakes can cause buildings
and bridges to collapse, telephone and power lines to fall, and result in
fires, explosions and landslides.
Earthquakes can also cause huge ocean waves, called tsunamis, which
travel long distances over water until they crash into coastal areas.
The following information includes general guidelines
for earthquake preparedness and safety.
Because injury prevention techniques may vary from state to state, it is
recommended that you contact your local emergency management office, health
department, or American Red Cross chapter.
What to do before an earthquake
1. Know the terms associated with earthquakes.
• Earthquake—a sudden slipping or movement of a portion of the
earth’s crust, accompanied and followed by a series of vibrations.
• Aftershock—an
earthquake of similar or lesser intensity that follows the main earthquake.
• Fault—the
earth’s crust slips along a fault—an area of weakness where two sections of
crust have separated. The crust may only
move a few inches to a few feet in a severe earthquake.
• Epicenter—the
area of the earth’s surface directly above the origin of an earthquake.
• Seismic
Waves—are vibrations that travel outward from the center of the earthquake at
speeds of several miles per second.
These vibrations can shake some buildings so rapidly that they collapse.
• Magnitude—indicates
how much energy was released. This energy
can be measured on a recording device and graphically displayed through lines
on a Richter Scale. A magnitude of 7.0
on the Richter Scale would indicate a very strong earthquake. Each whole number on the scale represents an
increase of about 30 times the energy released.
Therefore, an earthquake measuring 6.0 is about 30 times more powerful
than one measuring 5.0.
2. Look for items
in your home that could become a hazard in an earthquake:
• Repair
defective electrical wiring, leaky gas lines, and inflexible utility
connections.
• Bolt
down water heaters and gas appliances (have an automatic gas shut-off device
installed that is triggered by an
earthquake).
• Place
large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
Fasten shelves to walls. Brace
high and top-heavy objects.
• Store
bottled foods, glass, china and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets
that can fasten shut.
• Anchor
overhead lighting fixtures.
• Check
and repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations. Get expert advice, especially if there are
signs of structural defects.
• Be
sure the residence is
firmly anchored to its foundation.
• Install
flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to
breakage.
3. Know where and how to shut off electricity,
gas and water at main switches and valves. Check with your local utilities for
instructions.
4. Hold
earthquake drills with your household:
• Locate
safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall.
Reinforce this information by physically placing yourself and your household in
these locations.
• Identify
danger zones in each room—near windows where glass can shatter, bookcases or
furniture that can fall over, or under ceiling fixtures that could fall down.
5. Develop a plan
for reuniting your household after an earthquake. Establish an out-of-town telephone contact
for household members to call to let others know that they are okay.
6. Review your
insurance policies. Some damage may be covered even without specific earthquake
insurance. Protect important home and
business papers.
7. Prepare to
survive on your own for at least three days.
Assemble a disaster supply kit.
Keep a stock of food and extra drinking water. See the “Emergency Planning and Disaster
Supplies” and “Evacuation” chapters for more information.
What to do during an earthquake
Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Most injuries during earthquakes occur when
people are hit by falling objects when entering or exiting buildings.
1. Drop, Cover and Hold On!
Minimize your movements during an earthquake to a few steps to a nearby
safe place. Stay indoors until the shaking has stopped and you are sure exiting
is safe.
2. If you are indoors, take cover under a sturdy desk, table or bench,
or against an inside wall, and hold on.
Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors or walls and anything that
could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture. If you are in bed, stay there, hold on and
protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture
that could fall.
3. If there isn’t
a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in
an inside corner of the building.
Doorways should only be used for shelter if they are in close proximity
to you and if you know that it is a strongly supported load-bearing doorway.
4. If you are
outdoors, stay there. Move away from
buildings, streetlights and utility wires.
5. If you live in an apartment building or other
multi-household structure with many levels, consider the following:
• Get
under a desk and stay away from windows and outside walls.
• Stay in the building (many injuries occur as people flee a building
and are struck by falling debris from above).
• Be aware that the electricity may go out and sprinkler systems may
come on.
• DO NOT use the elevators.
6. If you are in
a crowded indoor public location:
• Stay
where you are. Do not rush for the doorways.
• Move
away from tall shelves, cabinets and bookcases containing objects that may
fall.
• Take cover and grab something to shield your head and face from
falling debris and glass.
• Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems
or fire alarms may turn on.
• DO
NOT use elevators.
7. In a moving
vehicle, stop as quickly as safety permits, and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings,
trees, overpasses or utility wires.
Then, proceed cautiously, watching for road and bridge damage.
8. If you become
trapped in debris:
• Do
not light a match.
• Do not move about or kick up dust.
• Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.
• Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort—shouting can
cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.
9. Stay indoors
until the shaking has stopped and you are sure exiting is safe.
What to do after an earthquake
1. Be prepared for aftershocks. These
secondary shock waves are usually less violent than the main quake but can be
strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures.
2. Check for
injuries. Do not attempt to move
seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or
further injury. If you must move an unconscious person, first stabilize the
neck and back, then call for help immediately.
• If the victim is not breathing,
carefully position the victim for artificial respiration, clear the airway and
start mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
• Maintain
body temperature with blankets. Be sure
the victim does not become overheated.
• Never
try to feed liquids to an unconscious person.
3. If the
electricity goes out, use flashlights or battery powered lanterns. Do not use candles, matches or open flames
indoors after the earthquake because of possible gas leaks.
4. Wear sturdy
shoes in areas covered with fallen debris and broken glass.
5. Check your
home for structural damage. If you have
any doubts about safety, have your home inspected by a professional before
entering.
6. Check chimneys
for visual damage; however, have a professional inspect the chimney for
internal damage before lighting a fire.
7. Clean up
spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids. Evacuate the building if gasoline fumes are
detected and the building is not well ventilated.
8. Visually
inspect utility lines and appliances for damage.
• If you smell gas or
hear a hissing or blowing sound, open a window and leave. Shut off the main gas
valve. Report the leak to the gas
company from the nearest working phone or cell phone available. Stay out of the
building. If you shut off the gas supply
at the main valve, you will need a professional to turn it back on.
• Switch
off electrical power at the main fuse box or circuit breaker if electrical
damage is suspected or known.
• Shut
off the water supply at the main valve if water pipes are damaged.
• Do
not flush toilets until you know that sewage lines are intact.
9. Open cabinets
cautiously. Beware of objects that can
fall off shelves.
10. Use the phone only to report
life-threatening emergencies.
11. Listen to news reports for
the latest emergency information.
12. Stay off the streets. If you must go out, watch for fallen objects,
downed electrical wires, weakened walls, bridges, roads and sidewalks.
13. Stay away from damaged area
unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire or relief organizations.
14. If you live in coastal
areas, be aware of possible tsunamis, sometimes mistakenly called tidal
waves. When local authorities issue a
tsunami warning, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on the way. Stay away from the beach. See the “Tsunamis” chapter for more
information.
Volcanoes
A volcano is a vent through which
molten rock escapes to the earth’s surface.
When pressure from gases within the molten rock becomes too great, an
eruption occurs.
Some eruptions are relatively quiet,
producing lava flows that creep across the land at 2 to 10 miles per hour. Explosive eruptions can shoot columns of
gases and rock fragments tens of miles into the atmosphere, spreading ash
hundreds of miles downwind. Lateral blasts can flatten trees for miles. Hot,
sometimes poisonous, gases may flow down the sides of the of the volcano.
Lava flows are
streams of molten rock that either pour from a vent quietly through lava tubes
or by lava fountains. Because of their
intense heat, lava flows are also great fire hazards. Lava flows destroy everything in their path,
but most move slowly enough that people can move out of the way.
Fresh volcanic
ash, made of pulverized rock, can be harsh, acidic, gritty, glassy and
odorous. While not immediately dangerous
to most adults, the combination of acidic gas and ash could cause lung damage
to small infants, very old people or those suffering from severe respiratory
illnesses. Volcanic ash can also damage
machinery, including engines and electrical equipment. Ash accumulations mixed with water become
heavy and can collapse roofs.
Volcanic
eruptions can be accompanied by other natural hazards: earthquakes, mudflows
and flash floods, rock falls and landslides, acid rain, fire, and (under
special conditions) tsunamis. Active
volcanoes in the
What to do before an eruption
1. Make evacuation plans. If you live in a
known volcanic hazard area, plan a route out and have a backup route in mind.
2. Develop
a household disaster plan. In case household members are separated from one
another during a volcanic eruption (a real possibility during the
day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for
getting back together. Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to serve as the
“household contact,” because after a disaster, it’s often easier to call long
distance. Make sure everyone knows the name, address, and phone number of the
contact person.
3.
Assemble a disaster supply kit (see
“Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies” chapter).
4. Get a pair of goggles and a throw-away
breathing mask for each member of the household in case of ashfall.
5. Do not visit an active volcano site
unless officials designate a safe viewing area.
What to do during an eruption
1. If close to the volcano evacuate
immediately away from the volcano to avoid flying debris, hot gases, lateral
blast, and lava flow.
2. Avoid
areas downwind from the volcano to avoid volcanic ash.
3. Be
aware of mudflows. The danger from a mudflow increases as you
approach a stream channel and decreases as you move away from a stream channel
toward higher ground. In some parts of the world (Central and
4. Stay indoors
until the ash has settled unless there is danger of the roof collapsing.
5. During
an ash fall, close doors, windows, and all ventilation in the house (chimney
vents, furnaces, air conditioners, fans and other vents).
6. Avoid
driving in heavy dust unless absolutely required. If you do drive in dense dust, keep speed
down to 35 mph or slower.
7.
Remove heavy ash from flat or
low-pitched roofs and rain gutters.
8.
Volcanic ash is actually fine, glassy
fragments and particles that can cause severe injury to breathing passages, eyes,
and open wounds, and irritation to skin.
Follow these precautions to keep yourself safe from ashfall:
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Use goggles and wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
• Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help breathing.
• Keep car or truck engines off. Driving can stir up volcanic ash that can clog engines and stall vehicles. Moving parts can be damaged from abrasion, including bearings, brakes, and transmissions.
What to do after the eruption
1. Avoid
ashfall areas if possible. If you are in an ashfall area cover your mouth and
nose with a mask, keep skin covered, and wear goggles to protect the eyes.
2. Clear roofs of ashfall because it is very
heavy and can cause buildings to collapse.
Exercise great caution when working on a roof.
3. Avoid driving through ashfall which is
easily stirred up and can clog engines,
causing vehicles to stall.
4. If you have a respiratory ailment, avoid
contact with any amount of ash. Stay indoors until local health officials
advise it is safe to go outside.
Landslides and Debris Flow (Mudslide)
Landslides occur in all
Debris and mud flows are rivers of rock, earth, and other debris saturated
with water. They develop when water
rapidly accumulates in the ground, during heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt,
changing the earth into a flowing river of mud or “slurry.” They can flow rapidly down slopes or through
channels, and can strike with little or no warning at avalanche speeds. They can also travel several miles from their
source, growing in size as they pick up trees, large boulders, cars, and other
materials along the way.
Landslide,
mudflow, and debris-flow problems are occasionally caused by land
mismanagement. Improper land-use
practices on ground of questionable stability, particularly in mountain,
canyon, and coastal regions, can create and accelerate serious landslide
problems. Land-use zoning, professional
inspections, and proper design can minimize many landslide, mudflow, and debris
flow problems.
What to do before a landslide or debris flow
1. Contact your
local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter for information
on local landslide and debris flow hazards.
2. Get a ground
assessment of your property.
• County
or state geological experts, local planning department or departments of
natural resources may have specific information on areas vulnerable to land
slides. Consult an appropriate
professional expert for advice on corrective measures you can take.
3. Minimize home
hazards.
• Plant
ground cover on slopes and build retaining walls.
• In
mudflow areas, build channels or deflection walls to direct the flow around
buildings.
• Remember:
If you build walls to divert debris flows and the flow lands on a neighbor’s
property, you may be liable for damages. Explore a neighborhood or special
district project.
• Install
flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to
breakage.
4. Familiarize
yourself with your surrounding area.
• Small
changes in your local landscape could alert you to the potential of greater
future threat.
• Observe
the patterns of storm-water drainage on slopes and especially the places where
runoff water converges.
• Watch
for any sign of land movement, such as small slides, flows, or progressively
leaning trees, on the hillsides near your home.
5. Be
particularly observant of your surrounding area before and during intense
storms that could heighten the possibility of landslide or debris flow from
heavy rains. Many debris flow fatalities
occur when people are sleeping.
6. Talk to your
insurance agent. Debris flow may be
covered by flood insurance policies from the National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP).
7. Learn to
recognize landslide warning signs.
• Doors
or windows stick or jam for the first time.
• New
cracks appear in plaster, tile, brick, or foundations.
• Outside
walls, walks, or stairs begin pulling away from the building.
• Slowly
developing, widening cracks appear on the ground or on paved areas such as
streets or driveways.
• Underground utility lines break.
• Bulging ground appears at the base of a
slope.
• Water breaks
through the ground surface in new locations.
• Fences,
retaining walls, utility poles, or trees tilt or move.
• You hear a faint rumbling sound that
increases in volume as the landslide nears.
• The ground slopes downward in one specific
direction and may begin shifting in that direction under your feet.
What to do during a heightened threat (intense
storm) of landslide or debris flow
1. Listen to radio or television for warning of intense rainfall.
• Be prepared to evacuate if instructed
by local authorities or if you feel threatened.
• Should
you remain at home, move to a second story if possible to distance yourself
from the direct path of debris flow and landslide debris.
2. Be alert when
intense, short bursts of rain follow prolonged heavy rains or damp weather,
which increase risks of debris flows.
3. Listen for any
unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or
boulders knocking together. A trickle of
flowing or falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. Moving debris can flow quickly and sometimes
without warning.
4. If you are
near a stream or channel, be alert for sudden increases or decreases in water
flow and for a change from clear to muddy water. Such changes may indicate landslide activity
upstream. Be prepared to move quickly.
5. Be especially
alert when driving.
Embankments along roadsides are particularly susceptible to landslides. Watch for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen
rocks, and other indications of possible debris flows.
6. Evacuate when
ordered by local authorities. See the
“Evacuation” chapter for more information.
What to do during a landslide or debris flow
1. Quickly move
away from the path of a landslide or debris flow.
2. Areas generally
considered safe include:
• Areas
that have not moved in the past
• Relatively
flat-lying areas away from drastic changes in slope
• Areas
at the top of or along ridges set back from the tops of slopes.
3. If escape is
not possible, curl into a tight ball and protect your head.
What to do after a landslide or debris flow
1. Stay away from
the slide area. There may be danger of
additional slides.
2. Check for
injured and trapped persons near the slide, without entering the direct slide area. Direct rescuers to their locations.
3. Help a
neighbor who may require special assistance—large families, children, elderly
people, and people with disabilities.
4. Listen to local
radio or television stations for the latest emergency information.
5. Landslides and
flows can provoke associated dangers such as broken electrical, water, gas, and
sewage lines, and disrupt roadways and railways.
• Look
for and report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the
utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further hazard and
injury.
• Check
the building foundation, chimney, and surrounding land for damage. Damage to foundations, chimneys, or
surrounding land may help you assess the safety of the area.
6. Watch for
flooding, which may occur after a landslide or debris flow. Floods sometimes follow landslides and debris
flows because they may both be started by the same event.
7. Replant
damaged ground as soon as possible since erosion caused by loss of ground cover
can lead to flash flooding and additional landslides in the near future.
8. Seek the
advice of a geotechnical expert for evaluating landslide hazards or designing
corrective techniques to reduce landslide risk.
A professional will be able to advise you of the best ways to prevent or
reduce landslide risk, without creating further hazard.
9. See the
“Recovering From Disaster” chapter for more information.
Tsunamis
Tsunami (pronounced soo-ná-mee), sometimes mistakenly called
a tidal wave, is a series of enormous waves created by an underwater
disturbance such as an earthquake. A
tsunami can move hundreds of miles per hour in the open ocean and smash into
land with waves as high as 100 feet or more, although most waves are less than
18 feet high.
From the area
where the tsunami originates, waves travel outward in all directions much like
the ripples caused by throwing a rock into a pond. In deep water the tsunami wave is not
noticeable. Once the wave approaches the shore it builds in height. All
tsunamis are potentially dangerous, even though they may not damage every
coastline they strike. A tsunami can
strike anywhere along most of the
Earthquake-induced
movement of the ocean floor most often generates tsunamis. Landslides, volcanic eruptions, and even
meteorites can also generate tsunamis.
If a major earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, the first wave
in a series could reach the beach in a few minutes, even before a warning is
issued. Areas are at greater risk if
less than 25 feet above sea level and within a mile of the shoreline. Drowning
is the most common cause of death associated with a tsunami. Tsunami waves and the receding water are very
destructive to structures in the run-up zone. Other hazards include flooding,
contamination of drinking water and fires from gas lines or ruptured tanks.
What to do before a tsunami
1. Know the terms
used by the West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center (WC/ATWC—responsible for tsunami warnings for
• Advisory—An earthquake has occurred in the Pacific basin, which might generate a tsunami. WC/ATWC and PTWC will issue hourly bulletins advising of the situation.
• Watch—A tsunami was or may have been generated, but is at least two hours travel time to the area in Watch status.
• Warning—A tsunami was or may have been generated, which could cause damage; therefore, people in the warned area are strongly advised to evacuate.
2. Listen to radio or television for more
information and follow the instructions of your local authorities.
3. Immediate
warning of tsunamis sometimes comes in the form of a noticeable recession in water
away from the shoreline. This is nature’s tsunami warning and it should be
heeded by moving inland to higher ground immediately
4. If you feel an earthquake in a coastal area,
turn on your radio to learn if there is a tsunami warning.
5. Know that a small tsunami at one beach can be
a giant wave a few miles away. The
topography of the coastline and the ocean floor will influence the size of the
wave.
6. A
tsunami may generate more than one wave.
Do not let the modest size of one wave allow you to forget how dangerous
a tsunami is. The next wave may be
bigger.
7. Prepare
for possible evacuation. Learn evacuation routes. Determine where you would go
and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate. See the “Evacuation” and “Emergency Planning
and Disaster Supplies” chapters for information.
What to do during a tsunami
1.
If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
2.
Stay away from the area until local authorities say it is safe. Do not be fooled into thinking that the
danger is over after a single wave—a tsunami is not a single wave but a series
of waves that can vary in size.
3. Do not go to the
shoreline to watch for a tsunami. When you can see the wave, it is too late to
escape.
What to do after a
tsunami
1. Avoid
flooded and damaged areas until officials say it is safe to return.
2. Stay away from debris in
the water, it may pose a safety hazard to boats and people.
3. See the “Recovering From Disaster” chapter for more information.
Fire
Each year more than 4000 Americans die and more than
25,000 are injured in fires, many of which could be prevented. Direct property
loss due to fires is estimated at $8.6 billion annually.
To protect yourself, it’s important to understand the basic
characteristics of fire. Fire spreads quickly; there is no time to gather
valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes a fire can become life
threatening. In five minutes a residence
can be engulfed in flames.
Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the super-hot air can sear your
lungs. Fire produces poisonous gases
that make you disoriented and drowsy.
Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep.
Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns, by a
three-to-one ratio.
What to do before fire strikes
1. Install smoke
alarms. Working smoke alarms decrease
your chances of dying in a fire by half.
• Place
smoke alarms on every level of your residence: outside bedrooms on the ceiling
or high on the wall, at the top of open stairways or at the bottom of enclosed
stairs and near (but not in) the kitchen.
• Test and clean smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries at
least once a year. Replace smoke alarms
once every 10 years.
2. With your
household, plan two escape routes from every room in the residence. Practice with your household escaping from
each room.
• Make
sure windows are not nailed or painted shut.
Make sure security gratings on windows have a fire safety-opening
feature so that they can be easily opened from the inside.
• Consider escape ladders
if your home has more than one level and ensure that burglar bars and other
antitheft mechanisms that block outside window entry are easily opened from
inside.
• Teach household members
to stay low to the floor (where the air is safer in a fire) when escaping from
a fire.
• Pick a place outside your home for the household to meet after
escaping from a fire.
3. Clean out storage areas. Don’t let trash such as old newspapers
and magazines accumulate.
4. Check the electrical wiring in your home.
• Inspect
extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs.
• Outlets
should have cover plates and no exposed wiring.
• Make
sure wiring does not run under rugs, over nails, or across high traffic areas.
• Do
not overload extension cords or outlets.
If you need to plug in two or three appliances, get a UL-approved unit
with built-in circuit breakers to prevent sparks and short circuits.
• Make
sure home insulation does not touch electrical wiring.
• Have
an electrician check the electrical wiring in your home.
5. Never use gasoline,
benzine, naptha or similar liquids indoors.
• Store
flammable liquids in approved containers in well-ventilated storage areas.
• Never
smoke near flammable liquids.
• After
use, safely discard all rags or materials soaked in flammable material.
6. Check heating sources. Many home fires are started by faulty
furnaces or stoves, cracked or rusted furnace parts and chimneys with creosote
build-up. Have chimneys, wood stoves and all home heating systems inspected and
cleaned annually by a certified specialist.
7. Insulate chimneys and place spark arresters on
top. The chimney should be at least
three feet higher than the roof. Remove branches hanging above and around the
chimney.
8. Be careful
when using alternative heating sources, such as wood, coal and kerosene heaters
and electrical space heaters.
• Check with your local fire department on the legality of using
kerosene heaters in your community. Be
sure to fill kerosene heaters outside after they have cooled.
•
Place heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials. Make sure the floor and nearby walls are
properly insulated.
• Use only the type of fuel designated
for your unit and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
• Store ashes in a metal container
outside and away from the residence.
• Keep open flames away from walls,
furniture, drapery and flammable items.
Keep a screen in front of the fireplace.
• Have chimneys and wood stoves
inspected annually and cleaned if necessary.
• Use portable heaters only in
well-ventilated rooms.
9. Keep matches and
lighters up high, away from children, and if possible, in a locked cabinet.
10. Do not smoke in bed, or when
drowsy or medicated. Provide smokers
with deep, sturdy ashtrays. Douse
cigarette and cigar butts with water before disposal.
11. Safety experts
recommend that you sleep with your door closed.
12. Know the
locations of the gas valve and electric fuse or circuit breaker box and how to
turn them off in an emergency. If you shut off your main gas line for any
reason, allow only a gas company representative to turn it on again.
13. Install A-B-C type fire
extinguishers in the home and teach household members how to use them (Type
A—wood or papers fires only; Type B—flammable liquid or grease
fires; Type C—electrical fires; Type A-B-C—rated for all fires
and recommended for the home).
14. Consider installing an
automatic fire sprinkler system in your home.
15. Ask your local fire
department to inspect your residence for fire safety and prevention.
16. Teach children how to report
a fire and when to use 911.
17. To support insurance claims
in case you do have a fire, conduct an inventory of your property and
possessions and keep the list in a separate location. Photographs are also
helpful.
18. See the “Emergency Planning
and Disaster Supplies” chapter for additional information.
What to do during a fire
1. Use water or a
fire extinguisher to put out small fires.
Do not try to put out a fire that is getting out of control. If you’re not sure if you can control it, get
everyone out of the residence and call the fire department from a neighbor’s
residence.
2. Never use
water on an electrical fire. Use only a
fire extinguisher approved for electrical fires.
3. Smother oil
and grease fires in the kitchen with baking soda or salt, or put a lid over the
flame if it is burning in a pan. Do not
attempt to take the pan outside.
4. If your
clothes catch on fire, stop, drop and roll until the fire is extinguished. Running only makes the fire burn faster.
5. If you are escaping through a closed door, use the back of your
hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob, and the crack between the door
and door frame before you open it. Never
use the palm of your hand or fingers to test for heat—burning those areas could
impair your ability to escape a fire (i.e., ladders and crawling).
• If the door is cool, open slowly and
ensure fire and/or smoke is not blocking your escape route. If your escape route is blocked, shut the
door immediately and use an alternate escape route, such as a window. If clear, leave immediately through the
door. Be prepared to crawl. Smoke and heat rise. The air is clearer and cooler near the floor.
• If
the door is warm or hot, do not open.
Escape through a window. If you
cannot escape, hang a white or light-colored sheet outside the window, alerting
fire fighters to your presence.
6. If you must
exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to your exit—heavy smoke and
poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling.
7. Close doors
behind you as you escape to delay the spread of the fire.
8. Once you are
safely out, stay out. Call 911.
What to do after a fire
1. Give first aid
where needed. After calling 911 or your
local emergency number, cool and cover burns to reduce chance of further injury
or infection.
2. Do not enter a
fire-damaged building unless authorities say it is okay.
3. If you must
enter a fire-damaged building, be alert for heat and smoke. If you detect either, evacuate immediately.
4. Have an electrician
check your household wiring before the current is turned on.
5. Do not attempt
to reconnect any utilities yourself.
Leave this to the fire department and other authorities.
6. Beware of structural damage. Roofs and floors may be weakened and need
repair.
7. Contact your
local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross or Salvation
Army, if you need housing, food, or a place to stay.
8. Call your
insurance agent.
• Make
a list of damage and losses. Pictures
are helpful.
• Keep
records of clean-up and repair costs.
Receipts are important for both insurance and income tax claims.
• Do not throw away
any damaged goods until an official inventory has been taken. Your insurance company takes all damages into
consideration.
9. If you are a tenant, contact the
landlord. It’s the property owner’s
responsibility to prevent further loss or damage to the site.
10. Secure
personal belongings or move them to another location.
11. Discard food, beverages and
medicines that have been exposed to heat, smoke or soot. Refrigerators and freezers left closed hold
their temperature for a short time. Do
not attempt to refreeze food that has thawed.
12. If you have a safe or strong
box, do not try to open it. It can hold
intense heat for several hours. If the
door is opened before the box has cooled, the contents could burst into flames.
13. If a building inspector says
the building is unsafe and you must leave your home:
• Ask
local police to watch the property during your absence.
• Pack
identification, medicines, glasses, jewelry, credit cards, checkbooks,
insurance policies and financial records if you can reach them safely.
• Notify
friends, relatives, police and fire departments, your insurance agent, the
mortgage company, utility companies, delivery
services, employers, schools and the post office of your whereabouts.
14. See the “Shelter” and
“Recovering From Disaster” chapters for more information.
Wildland fires
If you live on a remote hillside, or in a valley, prairie
or forest where flammable vegetation is abundant, your residence could be
vulnerable to wildland fire. These fires
are usually triggered by lightning or accidents.
1. Fire facts about rural living:
• Once a fire starts outdoors in a rural area, it is often hard to
control. Wildland firefighters are
trained to protect natural resources, not homes and buildings.
• Many
homes are located far from fire stations.
The result is longer emergency response times. Within a matter of minutes, an entire home
may be destroyed by fire.
• Limited
water supply in rural areas can make fire suppression difficult.
• Homes
may be secluded and surrounded by woods, dense brush and combustible vegetation
that fuel fires.
2. Ask fire authorities
for information about wildland fires in your area. Request that they inspect your residence and
property for hazards.
3. Be prepared and
have a fire safety and evacuation plan:
• Practice fire escape and evacuation plans.
• Mark
the entrance to your property with address signs that are clearly visible from
the road.
• Know
which local emergency services are available and have those numbers posted near
telephones.
• Provide
emergency vehicle access through roads and driveways at least 12 feet wide with
adequate turnaround space.
4. Tips for making
your property fire resistant:
• Keep lawns trimmed, leaves raked, and the roof and rain-gutters
free from debris such as dead limbs and leaves.
• Stack
firewood at least 30 feet away from your home.
• Store
flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside the home
at least 30 feet away from structures and wooden fences.
• Create
defensible space by thinning trees and brush within 30 feet around your
home. Beyond 30 feet, remove dead wood,
debris and low tree branches.
• Landscape
your property with fire resistant plants and vegetation to prevent fire from
spreading quickly. For example, hardwood
trees are more fire-resistant than pine, evergreen, eucalyptus, or fir trees.
• Make
sure water sources, such as hydrants, ponds, swimming pools and wells, are
accessible to the fire department.
5. Protect your
home:
• Use fire resistant, protective roofing and materials like stone,
brick and metal to protect your home.
Avoid using wood materials. They
offer the least fire protection.
• Cover
all exterior vents, attics and eaves with metal mesh screens no larger than 6
millimeters or 1/4 inch to prevent debris from collecting and to help keep
sparks out.
• Install
multi-pane windows, tempered safety glass or fireproof shutters to protect
large windows from radiant heat.
• Use
fire-resistant draperies for added window protection.
• Have
chimneys, wood stoves and
all home heating systems inspected and cleaned annually by a certified
specialist.
• Insulate
chimneys and place spark arresters on top.
Chimney should be at least three feet above the roof.
• Remove
branches hanging above and around the chimney.
6. Follow local
burning laws:
• Do not burn trash or other debris without proper knowledge of
local burning laws, techniques and the safest times of day and year to burn.
• Before
burning debris in a wooded area, make sure you notify local authorities and
obtain a burning permit.
• Use
an approved incinerator with a safety lid or covering with holes no larger than
3/4 inches.
• Create
at least a 10-foot clearing around the incinerator before burning debris.
• Have
a fire extinguisher or garden hose on hand when burning debris.
7. If wildfire threatens
your home and time permits, consider the following:
Inside
• Shut off gas at the meter.
Turn off pilot lights.
• Open
fireplace damper. Close fireplace
screens.
• Close
windows, vents, doors, blinds or noncombustible window coverings, and heavy
drapes. Remove flammable drapes and
curtains.
• Move
flammable furniture into the center of the home away from windows and
sliding-glass doors.
• Close
all interior doors and windows to prevent drafts.
• Place
valuables that will not be damaged by water in a pool or pond.
• Gather
pets into one room. Make plans to care for your pets if you must evacuate.
• Back
your car into the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of
escape. Shut doors and roll up
windows. Leave the key in the ignition
and the car doors unlocked. Close garage
windows and doors, but leave them unlocked.
Disconnect automatic garage door openers.
Outside
• Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial
seals.
• Turn
off propane tanks.
• Place
combustible patio furniture inside.
• Connect
garden hose to outside taps. Place lawn
sprinklers on the roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Wet the roof.
• Wet
or remove shrubs within 15 feet of the home.
• Gather
fire tools such as a rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket, and shovel.
8. If advised to
evacuate, do so immediately. Choose a
route away from the fire hazard. Watch
for changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.
9. See the
“Evacuation” chapter for detailed information about evacuation
preparedness. Also see the “Recovering
from Disaster” and “Shelters” chapters for additional information.
Technological
and Man-Made Hazards
Hazardous Materials Incidents
household chemical
emergencies
Nuclear power Plants
National Security
Emergencies
TERRORISM
CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS
NUCLEAR AND RADIOLOGICAL ATTACK
HOMELAND SECURITY ADVISORY SYSTEM
Hazardous Materials Incidents
From industrial chemicals and toxic waste to household detergents
and air fresheners, hazardous materials are part of our everyday lives. Affecting urban, suburban and rural areas,
hazardous materials incidents can range from a chemical spill on a highway to
groundwater contamination by naturally occurring methane gas.
Hazardous materials are substances that, because of their chemical
nature, pose a potential risk to life, health or property if they are
released. Hazards can exist during
production, storage, transportation, use or disposal.
Chemical plants are one source of hazardous materials, but there are
many others. Your local service station
stores gasoline and diesel fuel, hospitals store a range of radioactive and
flammable materials, and there are about 30,000 hazardous materials waste sites
in the country.
Many communities have Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) that
identify industrial hazardous materials and keep the community informed of the
potential risk. All companies that have
hazardous chemicals must report annually to the LEPC. The public is encouraged
to participate in the process. Contact
your local emergency management office to find out if your community has an
LEPC and how you can participate.
What to do before a hazardous materials incident
1. Ask your fire
or police department about warning procedures.
These could include:
• Outdoor
warning sirens or horns.
• Emergency
Alert System (EAS)—Information provided via radio and television.
• “All-Call” telephoning— An automated system for sending recorded messages.
• News media—Radio, television and
cable.
• Residential route alerting—Messages
announced to neighborhoods from vehicles equipped with public address systems.
2. Ask your LEPC
or emergency management office about community plans for responding to a
hazardous materials accident at a plant or other facility, or a transportation
accident involving hazardous materials.
3. Ask your LEPC about storage and usage of hazardous chemicals in
your local area.
4. Use the
information gathered from LEPC and local emergency management offices to
evaluate risks to your household.
Determine how close you are to factories, freeways, or railroads that
may produce or transport toxic waste.
5. Be prepared to
evacuate. An evacuation could last for a
few hours or several days. See the
“Evacuation” and “Emergency Planning and Disaster Supplies” chapters for
important information.
6. Be
prepared to shelter-in-place; that is, to seek safety in your home or any other
building you might be in at the time of a chemical release. At home you should
select a room to be used as a shelter. The shelter room for use in case of a
hazardous material incident should be above ground, large enough to accommodate
all household members and pets, and should have the fewest possible exterior
doors and windows. You should also
assemble a shelter kit to be used to seal the shelter room during a chemical
release. The kit should include plastic sheeting, duct tape, scissors, a towel,
and modeling clay or other material to stuff into cracks.
What to do during a hazardous materials incident
1. If you witness
(or smell) a hazardous materials accident, call 911, your local emergency
notification number or the fire department as soon as safely possible.
2. If you hear a
warning signal, listen to local radio or television stations for further
information. Follow instructions
carefully.
3. Stay away fr