Preparing for an emergency
To prepare for an emergency, you should take time to find out:
- Where and how to turn off water, gas and electricity supplies in your home
- The emergency procedures for your children at school
- The emergency procedures at your workplace
- How your family will stay in contact in the event of an emergency
- If any elderly or vulnerable neighbours might need your help
- How to tune in to your local radio station
If you are at home and an emergency happens, try to gather together:
- A list of useful phone numbers, such as your doctor's and close relatives'
- Home and car keys
- Toiletries, sanitary supplies and any regularly prescribed medication
- A battery radio with spare batteries
- A torch with spare batteries, candles and matches
- A First Aid kit
- Your mobile phone
- Cash and credit cards
- Spare clothes and blankets
- Bottled water, ready-to-eat food (e.g. tinned food) and a bottle/tin opener, in case you have to remain in your home for several days
If you are involved in any emergency it is important to:
- Make sure 999 has been called if people are injured or if there is a threat to life
- Not put yourself or others in danger
- Follow the advice of the emergency services
- Try to remain calm and think before acting and try to reassure others
- Check for injuries - remember to attend to yourself before attempting to help others
