TAKE ACTION TODAY and take responsibility for being prepared. Here are ten things you can do:​

1. Identify Your Risk
• What are the hazards where you live or work?
• Find out what natural or human caused disasters pose a risk for you.
• Do you live near a flood plain or a chemical facility?
• Are you prepared for an unexpected man-made disaster that can strike any time?
• Does your community have a disaster plan?
• Contact your Local Emergency Management Office


2. Create a Family Disaster Plan
   Your family needs a plan that tells everyone: where to meet if you have to evacuate; who you’ve identified as an out-of-state “family contact”; how to get emergency information in your community; and how to take care of your family pets.
• Tips on preparing your family
• American Red Cross - information on creating a family disaster plan
• Each family member should carry the Family Communications Plan


3. Practice Your Disaster Plan
   After you have sat down with your family and written your plan — practice it. Start by having family members meet at a designated spot outside your home — like you would after a fire or after the shaking stops. Know how to respond in the event of any disaster — whether to stay put indoors, or whether to evacuate your neighborhood by car. If your family needs to evacuate, know the proper evacuation procedures and routes.


4. Build a Disaster Supply Kit For Your Home and Car
   If you are stranded in your car or have to be self-sufficient at home or work until help arrives, you need to have a disaster kit with you.
• FEMA Emergency Supply Checklist


5. Prepare Your Children
   Talk to your kids about what the risks are and what your family will do if disaster strikes.
• Preparedness Information for Children


6. Don’t Forget Those With Special Needs
   Infants, seniors and those with special needs must not be forgotten.
• Tips for the People with Disabilities/Access and Functional Needs
• Tips for the Elderly


7. Learn CPR and First Aid
   Contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross today and get trained on basic first aid and CPR. Your training could save the life of a loved one or neighbor following a disaster.
   Learn CPR and First Aid with the Red Cross


8. Eliminate Hazards in Your Home and The Workplace
   You must secure the contents of your home or office to reduce hazards.
• Home Safety Information
• Workplace Safety Information


9. Understand Post-9/11 Risks
   Disaster preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.
   Be Informed – Explosions, Chemical, Biological, and Nuclear Threats


10. Get Involved, Volunteer, Bear Responsibility
    Donate blood, join a local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), educate your neighbor, or volunteer with your local American Red Cross.
• Maryland Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
• American Red Cross
• Community Emergency Response Teams
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