The tragic events of September 11, 2001 have forever changed the way Americans go about their daily routine. As a result, federal, state and local authorities have offered guidance to Americans on how to prepare themselves for future terrorist attacks or other emergencies. Today, average citizens regularly use words and phrases like “anthrax,” “dirty bomb,” “smallpox virus,” and “weapons of mass destruction.” Despite this expanded – and sometimes frightening vocabulary — government authorities stress the need to continue with our daily lives but to be prepared. Key components of all emergency preparedness plans are:

• making an emergency kit with supplies suggested by government authorities and that also includes items tailored to the needs of your family.

• making a plan for what you and your family will do in the event of an emergency; this includes incorporating the emergency plan of your child’s school.

• staying aware of your surroundings and staying aware of events as they happen.

The primary starting point for preparing a plan for your family in the event of an emergency is the Department of Homeland Security’s website (www.Ready.gov). It contains the most up-to-date information on emergency preparedness and it also provides links to other relevant government websites including State Government websites. Below are useful links and other information:

1. US Government Emergency Preparedness Websites/ Sources

www.Ready.gov
www.RedCross.org
www.cdc.gov

2. State and Local Government Emergency Preparedness Websites/ Sources

The Department of Homeland Security’s website offers links to state homeland security websites. The state websites, in turn, include links to local government and private organizations that are available to assist you to develop an emergency plan. To find out more, go to: www.ready.gov/useful_state.html.

3. Additional Tips for Family Preparedness

In addition to the items recommended by government authorities, you may want to consider some of the following precautions and/or include some of the following items in your safe room, emergency box or even in your car:

• List of names, addresses and telephone numbers of police, fire, relatives and neighbors that you may want to contact in the event of an emergency.

• Full tank of gas in your car.

• Extra house and car keys

• Maps of your neighborhood and city with designated emergency routes highlighted.

• Non-perishable snacks for the entire family.

• Toys, games and books to keep the kids occupied.

• Ziploc bags

• Toilet paper

• Trash bags

• A/c converter adapter

• Car emergency kits in waterproof boxes:

  • One for car repair: cables, flashers, whistle, matches, flashlight, etc.

  • One for rations in the event you are stranded: non-perishable food, can opener, bottled water, first aid kit, masks, extra diapers, wipes, Ziplocs, and other diaper bag essentials.