AT ANY DISASTER

• Whatever you do, remain calm. LEAVE whatever you are doing. LOOK around you and assess the situation carefully. LISTEN to instructions tuning into a radio news source.
• For your own protection, fully cooperate with public officials and keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
• Do not use your phone, except in endangering situations.
• Visually inspect your home’s structure. If there is large scale damage to the walls or roofs, evacuate the structure.
• Inspect your building with a flashlight to detect gas and water leaks, burst wiring and sewage lines. If there is damage, shut the service from the source. (See utilities).
• Consider changing your voicemail message to include your family’s status. If your relatives are not able to get in touch with you, they can still listen to your outgoing message.

WHEN TO CALL 911

• Call 911 to request help.
• During large scale disasters, 911 could be congested with calls. Prepare to wait.
• Be prepared to answer questions from 911 operators. Stay in line until the operator takes your call.

TERRORISM

The main goal of a terrorist is to create fear. Your family and you can keep safe with accurate information and basic emergency preparation.

Be responsible:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Locate emergency exists, public phones, fire alarms and fire extinguishers. Whatever your location is, consider the best means of evacuation.
• Report suspicious objects, vehicles or people to local public safety authorities.

In case of a terrorist attack or threat:

• Stay calm.
• Be alert. Watch for secondary dangers, e.g. falling rubble, packages or suspicious people. Report any concern to local public safety authorities.
• Follow instructions from the emergency service staff.
• Avoid spreading rumors; confirm information with a reliable source.

EVACUATION

Immediate hazard:

If you smell gas or smoke, see fire or fear for your safety, evacuate immediately. Once in a safe place, call 911 and report the incident.

General evacuation orders:

• If local authorities issue orders, use the specified evacuation routes and methods. Organize transportation in groups whenever possible. If time allows:
• Wear thick shoes or boots, long sleeves and pants.
• Carry your car keys, credit cards, maps, cell phones, chargers and important phone numbers.
• Carry your “Emergency bags”.  (See Emergency bags).
• If you have a pet, ensure it is wearing a collar; carry it in a pet cage labeled with your name and the name of the pet. Carry a small amount of food, medication and water for your pet. (See Tips for pet owners)
• Lock your house and shut off the water and electricity, but leave the gas open unless instructed otherwise.
• Inform your neighbor where you’re heading.
• Call your contact person outside your area.

If your neighborhood experiences a blackout:
 

• Turn off and unplug appliances and computers. Leave a light on in the house or building to indicate when power is restore.
• Avoid candles, since these pose a fire hazard.
• Do not use gas cooking devices systems or operate generators within your home (even the garage). Any of these actions may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If a streetlight is not working, consider it a STOP sign.
• See the Food section for safety information about food when the refrigerator is not working.