Document

If you see the avalanche coming the first step you should take is to try and get out of it’s way. You can do this by:
a) Move Diagonal to the Avalanche
b) Make your way to the edge of the avalanche instead of trying to outrun it, avalanches can move at speeds of 60 to 80 mph
If you cannot get out of the way of the avalanche:
a) Orient your feet downhill so you don’t hit your head or get into a tight ball, make sure to protect your head as avalanches can carry large rocks or sheets of ice with them
b) Try to stay warm, call 911 for search and rescue, and try to dig out anyone who may have got trapped under the snow
Make sure to avoid hypothermia, signs of hypothermia may include:
-Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness
If you experience one of more of these symptoms:
-Go to a warm room or shelter. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head and groin. Keep the person dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.

If near the area of contamination:
a) Quickly get away from the area if you notice a suspicious substance.
b) Cover your mouth and nose with layers of fabric that can filter the air but still allow you to breathe. Examples include two to three layers of cotton such as a t-shirt, handkerchief or towel.
c) If you have been exposed to a biological agent, remove and bag your clothes and personal items. Follow official instructions for disposal of contaminated items. Hazard waste baskets can be found at hospitals if necessary.
d) Wash yourself with soap and water and put on clean clothes.
e) Contact authorities and seek medical assistance. You may be advised to stay away from others or even to quarantine.
f) If your symptoms match those described and you are in the group considered at risk, immediately seek emergency medical attention.
If you’re not near the area of contamination:
a) Follow the instructions of doctors and other public health officials.
b) Avoid crowds.
c) Wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
d) Do not share food or utensils.
e) Depending on the situation, wear a face mask to reduce inhaling or spreading germs.
f) Watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for official news and information including:
i)Signs and symptoms of the disease
ii)Areas in danger
iii)If medications or vaccinations are being distributed
iv)Where to seek medical attention if you become ill

Some tips on how to preserve water during a drought.
In the bathroom:
a) Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other similar waste in the trash rather than the toilet.
b) Take short showers instead of baths. Turn on the water only to get wet and lather and then again to rinse off.
c) Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving.
Laundry:
a) Operate clothes washers only when they are fully loaded or set the water level for the size of your load.
Kitchen:
a) Operate automatic dishwashers only when they are fully loaded. Use the "light wash" feature to use less water.
b) Hand wash dishes by filling two containers—one with soapy water and the other with rinse water containing a small amount of chlorine bleach.
c) Clean vegetables in a pan filled with water rather than running water from the tap.
d) Avoid wasting 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.
e) Don't rinse dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, just remove large particles of food.
f) Avoid using running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Lawn Care:
a) 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.
b) Check the soil moisture levels with a soil probe, spade or large screwdriver. You don't need to water if the soil is still moist. If your grass springs back when you step on it, it doesn't need water yet.
c) If your lawn does require watering, do so early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler.
d) Water in several short sessions rather than one long one, in order for your lawn to better absorb moisture and avoid runoff.
e) Use a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from your driveway or sidewalk.
f) Avoid leaving sprinklers or hoses unattended. A garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours.
g) In extreme drought, allow lawns to die in favor of preserving trees and large shrubs.
Car Wash:
a) Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
b) If you wash your own car, use a shut-off nozzle that can be adjusted down to a fine spray on your hose.

Bracing for an earthquake depends on where you are:
a) If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.
b) If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
c) If you are outdoors, stay outdoors away from buildings.
d) If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
Steps for protecting yourself:
a) Drop - Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
b) Cover - Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
c) On - If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
Immediately After:
a) Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.
b) If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.
c) If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.
d) If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.
e) Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training.

Immediately After:
a) Always follow the instructions of local officials. Emergency services may not be on scene right away.
b) Remain calm. If things are falling around you, get under a sturdy table or desk.
c) If it is safe to do so, leave the area as quickly as possible. Do not stop to retrieve personal possessions or make phone calls.
d) Once you evacuate to safety, let your family emergency contact know you are safe by texting or messaging them on social media. Save phone calls for emergencies.
e) Even if you are not directly involved in the explosion, stay informed and listen to local officials. You may be asked to evacuate or to turn off your electricity and water.
If you are inside and able to evacuate:
a) Check for fire and other hazards. Stay low if there is smoke.
b) Do not use elevators. Avoid floors and stairways that are obviously weakened.
c) Take cover under sturdy furniture, or leave the building if directed to do so by emergency responders.
d) Stay away from windows.
e) Do not light matches.
If you are inside and trapped:
a) Use a flashlight, whistle or tap on pipes to signal your location to rescuers. Shout only as a last resort to avoid inhaling dust.
b) Cover your nose and mouth with anything you have on hand.
If you are outside:
a) Continue moving away from the area to safety.
b) You may be the help until help arrives. If it is safe to do so, help people get to safety.
c) If you know where people are trapped, do not attempt to rescue them as moving debris could cause further harm. Once emergency services are on scene, immediately notify them.

During an extreme heat event, keep the following in mind:
a) Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
b) If air conditioning is not available in your home, go to a cooling center.
c) Take cool showers or baths.
d) Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
e) Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
f) If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
g) Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
h) Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
i) Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
j) Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
k) Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.
Heat Related Illnesses:
a) Heat Stroke - signs include:
i) Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally
ii)Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
iii)Rapid, strong pulse
b) Heat Cramps - signs include:
i) Muscle pains
ii) Spasms in the stomach, arms or legs
c) Heat Exhaustion - signs include:
i) Heavy sweating
ii) Paleness
iii) Muscle cramps
iv) Tiredness
v) Weakness
vi) Fast or weak pulse
vii) Dizziness
viii) Headache
ix) Fainting
x) Nausea
xi) Vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact 911

If you are in an area under a flood warning, do the following:
a) Find safe shelter right away.
b) Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
c) Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
d) Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
e) Depending on the type of flooding:
f) Evacuate if told to do so.
i) Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
ii) Stay where you are.
During a Flood:
a) Evacuate immediately, if told to evacuate. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
b) Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.
c) Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.
d) Unplug sensitive electronic equipment. But, do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
e) Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live. Electrocution is also a serious danger in floods as electrical currents can travel through water.
After a flood:
a) Stay out of damaged buildings and away from affected areas or roads until authorities deem them safe.
b) If your power is out, report outages to your utility company and follow our power outage safety tips.
c) Look before you step. Debris, including broken bottles and nails can cover the ground and floors after a flood. Mud covered floors and stairs can be slippery.
d) Listen to news reports to learn if your water supply is safe to drink. Until local authorities say your water supply is safe, boil water for at least one minute before drinking or using it for cooking.
e) Throw away food (including canned items) that has come in contact with floodwaters. Don’t eat food from flooded gardens. Throw away any refrigerated food that was not kept at temperatures above 40 °F for more than two hours or that has an unusual odor, color, or texture.

If told to evacuate:
a) If asked to evacuate, do so immediately. To find a public shelter, text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).
b) Quickly try to figure out which areas are affected or where the chemical is coming from, if possible, and get away immediately.
c) If the chemical is inside your building, get out of the building without passing through the contaminated area, if possible.
d) If you can't get out of the building or find clean air without passing through the affected area, move as far away as possible and shelter-in-place.
e) Remember, some toxic chemicals are odorless.
If told to stay indoors:
a) Bring pets inside.
b) Seek shelter in an internal room. Close and lock all exterior doors and windows. Close vents, fireplace dampers and as many interior doors as possible. Seal the room with duct tape and plastic sheeting.
c) Turn off air conditioners and ventilation systems, or set ventilation systems to 100 percent recirculation so that no outside air is drawn into the building.
d) Seal gaps under and around the following areas with wet towels, plastic sheeting, duct tape, wax paper or aluminum foil:
e) Doorways and windows
f) Air conditioning units
g) Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
h) Stove and dryer vents with duct tape and plastic sheeting
i) Take shallow breaths through a cloth or a towel if gas or vapors could have entered the building.
j) Avoid eating or drinking any food or water that may be contaminated.
If outside when the incident occurs:
a) Quickly decide what is the fastest way to find clean air. Move away immediately, in a direction upwind of the source.
b) If in a car, keep car windows and vents closed and shut off the air conditioner and heater.
c) Find the closest building to shelter-in-place.
How to decontaminate:
a) Remove all clothing and other items in contact with your body.
i) Cut off clothing normally removed over the head to avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth.
ii) Put contaminated clothing and items into a plastic bag and seal the bag.
iii) Remove eyeglasses or contact lenses. Put glasses in a pan of household bleach to decontaminate them and then rinse and dry.
b) Wash hands with soap and water. If helping someone decontaminate, immediately wash your hands and other exposed skin afterwards.
c) Flush eyes with water.
d) Gently wash face and hair with soap and water before thoroughly rinsing with water.

Preparing for hurricanes:
a) Know Your Hurricane Risk - Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water and even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Start preparing now.
b) Make an Emergency Plan - Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. Include the office, kids’ day care, and anywhere else you frequent in your hurricane plans. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes.
c) Know your Evacuation Zone - You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay. Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
d) Recognize Warnings and Alerts - Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.
e) Those with Disabilities - Identify if you may need additional help during an emergency if you or anyone else in your household is an individual with a disability.
f) Review Important Documents - Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.
g) Strengthen your Home - Declutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, and consider hurricane shutters.
h) Get Tech Ready - Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
i) Help your Neighborhood - Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others
j) Gather Supplies - Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.
How to stay safe during a hurricane:
a) Pay attention to emergency information and alerts.
b) If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone and local officials tell you to evacuate, do so immediately.
c) Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding.
d) Take refuge in a designated storm shelter or an interior room for high winds.
e) Go to the highest level of the building if you are trapped by flooding. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water.
f) Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away..
g) Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock.
h) Do not wade in flood water, which can contain dangerous pathogens that cause illnesses. This water also can contain debris, chemicals, waste and wildlife. Underground or downed power lines also can electrically charge the water.
i) Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems often are down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
Be careful during clean up. Wear protective clothing, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled, even if these individuals are not allergic to mold. Children should not help with disaster cleanup work. Wear protective clothing and work with someone else.

How to spot a landslide:
a) Changes occur in your landscape such as patterns of storm-water drainage on slopes (especially the places where runoff water converges) land movement, small slides, flows, or progressively leaning trees.
b) Doors or windows stick or jam for the first time.
c) New cracks appear in plaster, tile, brick or foundations.
d) Outside walls, walkways or stairs begin pulling away from the building.
e) Slowly developing, widening cracks appear on the ground or on paved areas such as streets or driveways.
f) Underground utility lines break.
g) Bulging ground appears at the base of a slope.
h) Water breaks through the ground surface in new locations.
i) Fences, retaining walls, utility poles, or trees tilt or move.
j) The ground slopes downward in one direction and may begin shifting in that direction under your feet.
k) If you are near a wildfire burn area, sign up for emergency alerts and pay attention to weather forecasts for the burn area.
l) Listen and watch for rushing water, mud or unusual sounds.
m) Unusual sounds such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together, might indicate moving debris. A faint rumbling sound that increases in volume is noticeable as the landslide nears.
n) Huge boulders in the landscape can be signs of past debris flows.
If outside during a landslide:
a) Be aware that by the time you are sure a debris flow is coming, it will be too late to get away safely. Never cross a road with water or mud flowing. Never cross a bridge if you see a flow approaching because it can grow faster and larger too quickly for you to escape.
b) If you do get stuck in the path of a landslide move uphill as quickly as possible.
c) Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas during times of danger.
d) If you are near a stream or channel, be alert for any sudden increase or decrease in water flow or water that changes from clear to muddy. These can be signs that a landslide is coming.
If inside during a landslide:
a) Move away from the threat — don’t approach an active landslide
b) Escape vertically by moving upstairs or even on countertops to avoid being swept away
c) Identify and relocate to interior, ideally unfurnished, areas of a building that offer more protection
d) Open downhill doors and windows to let debris escape
e) Stay alert and awake during a storm that could cause a landslide. Many deaths from landslides occur while people are sleeping.
If caught in landslide debris, continue to move and make noise to alert rescuers.
After a landslide:
a) Stay away from the slide area. There may be danger coming from additional slides.
b) Watch for flooding. Floods sometimes follow landslides and debris flows because they may both be started by the same conditions.
c) Check for injured and trapped persons near the slide, without entering the direct slide area. Direct rescuers to their locations.
d) Report broken utility lines and damaged roadways and railways to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further hazard and injury.
e) Allow trained professionals to check the building foundation, chimney, and surrounding land for damage.
f) 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.

How to safe during a Radiation Emergency:
a) During any radiation emergency, follow the radiation protection principles of time, distance, and shielding. Limit your time exposed to radiation, stay as far away as possible from a radioactive source, and shield yourself from radiation by going deep inside a sturdy building.
b) Remain in the most protective location (basement or center of a large building) for the first 24 hours unless threatened by an immediate hazard (e.g., fire, gas leak, building collapse, or serious injury) or informed by authorities that it is safe to leave. Radiation levels decrease rapidly, becoming significantly less dangerous, during the first 24 hours.
In case of a nuclear detonation:
a) Nuclear detonations are the most dangerous radiation emergency. It creates a large, deadly blast. If it detonates on the ground, the explosion can suck material up into the air and create dangerous, sand-like, radioactive particles called fallout.
b) For a nuclear explosion, if you have warning, take cover from the blast behind anything that might offer protection. If you are outside, lie face down to protect exposed skin from the heat and flying debris. After the shockwave passes, go inside the nearest building as quickly as possible.
c) Get Inside - After a detonation, you will have 10 minutes or more to find an adequate shelter before fallout arrives. If a multi-story building or a basement can be safely reached within a few minutes of the explosion, go there immediately. The safest buildings have brick or concrete walls. Underground parking garages and subways can also provide good shelter.
d) Stay Inside - Take shelter unless told otherwise. If possible, turn off fans, air conditioners, and forced-air heating units that bring air in from the outside. Close windows and doors. Close fireplace dampers. If you are instructed to stay inside during a radiation emergency, pets and service animals should be inside too. Sheltering usually lasts at least 24 hours.
e) Stay Tuned - Follow instructions from emergency response officials. If advised to evacuate, listen for information about routes, shelters, and procedures. If you have evacuated, do not return until you are told it is safe to do so by local authorities.
After a radiation emergency:
a) Remove your outer layer of contaminated clothing to remove radioactive material from your body. Removing your outer layer of clothing can remove up to 90% of radioactive material. Be very careful in removing your clothing to prevent radioactive dust from shaking loose. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, if possible.
b) Get clean - If possible, take a shower or wash with soap and water to remove any radioactive particles from skin or hair that was not covered. If you cannot wash, use a wipe or clean wet cloth to wipe any skin or hair that was not covered. Do not use household cleaning wipes on your skin. Hand sanitizer does not protect against radioactive material. Follow CDC guidance on Decontamination for Yourself and Others.
c) Clean any pets that were outside after the radioactive dust arrived. Gently brush your pet’s coat to remove any radioactive particles and wash your pet with soap and water, if available.
d) Stay hydrated and fed - It is safe to eat and drink food that was inside a building. It is safe to eat food in sealed containers that were outside as long as you wipe off the container with a damp towel or cloth before using. Seal these towels or cleaning cloths in a plastic bag and place them away from people and pets. Unsealed foods from outside may be contaminated with radioactive material. Do not consume food from your garden, or food or liquids that were outdoors and uncovered, until authorities tell you it is safe.
e) Take care of yourself and others - If you are sick or injured, listen for instructions on how and where to get medical attention. If you are at a public shelter, immediately notify the staff at that facility so they can call a local hospital or clinic. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

In case of a pandemic or contagious disease:
a) Take actions to prevent the spread of disease. Cover coughs and sneezes. Wear a mask in public. Stay home when sick (except to get medical care). Disinfect surfaces. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Stay six feet away from people who are not part of your household.
b) If you believe you’ve been exposed to the disease, contact your doctor, follow the quarantine instructions from medical providers and monitor your symptoms. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 and shelter in place with a mask, if possible, until help arrives.
c) Share accurate information about the disease with friends, family and people on social media. Sharing bad information about the disease or treatments for the disease may have serious health outcomes. Remember that stigma hurts everyone and can cause discrimination against people, places or nations.
d) Know that it’s normal to feel anxious or stressed. Engage virtually with your community through video and phone calls. Take care of your body and talk to someone if you are feeling upset.
e) Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days or weeks. Supplies may include cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, prescriptions and bottled water. Buy supplies slowly to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to buy what they need.

In case of a power outage, keep the following in mind:
a) Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
b) Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
c) Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
d) Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
e) Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
f) Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you. These locations can include:
i) Libraries
ii) Community and senior centers
iii) Schools
iv) Malls
v) Police departments
Generator Safety:
a) Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.
b) Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family and pets.
c) Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
d) Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
e) Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
f) Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
How to protect yourself:
a) Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
b) Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.
c) Have enough nonperishable food and water. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

Preparing for a thunderstorm:
a) Know your area’s risk for thunderstorms. In most places they can occur year-round and at any hour. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
b) Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home. Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances and electronic devices.
c) Create an emergency plan so that you and your family know what to do, where to go and what you will need to protect yourselves from the effects of a thunderstorm. Identify sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study and play
How to stay safe during a thunderstorm:
a) When thunder roars, go indoors! Move from outdoors into a building or car with a roof.
b) Pay attention to alerts and warnings.
c) Avoid using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet.
d) Avoid running water.
e) Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Do not drive through flooded roadways. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
f) Watch out for fallen power lines
If lightning strikes your car while driving:
a) Pull over to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights and turn off your engine.
b) Make sure all of your windows and doors are closed.
c) Don’t touch any metal surfaces for at least 30 minutes after your car has been struck by lightning
d) Wait until the storm stops to go anywhere.
If lightning strikes your house:
a) Contact the fire department
b) Avoid electronics
If someone is struck by lightning:
a) Call 911 immediately
b) Check if its safe to touch someone
c) Move him or her to a safer area if there is a continued danger from lightning strikes
d) If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and continue until help arrives
e) Cover the person with a jacket or blanket to help prevent hypothermia

Preparing for a tornado:
a) Know your area’s tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a greater risk for tornadoes.
b) Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar like a freight train.
c) Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, then become familiar with the warning tone.
d) Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.
e) Identify and practice going to a safe shelter such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room or basement on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
f) Plan for your pet. They are an important member of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s emergency plan.
g) Prepare for long-term stay at home or sheltering in place by gathering emergency supplies, cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, water, medical supplies and medication.
During a tornado:
a) Immediately go to a safe location that you have identified.
i) Go to the basement or an inside room without windows on the lowest floor (bathroom, closet, center hallway).
ii) If possible, avoid sheltering in any room with windows.
iii) For added protection get under something sturdy (a heavy table or workbench). Cover your body with a blanket, sleeping bag or mattress. Protect your head with anything available.
iv) Do not stay in a mobile home.
b) Pay attention to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
c) Protect yourself by covering your head or neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around or on top of you.
d) Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle if you are in a car. If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.
After a tornado:
a) Pay attention to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities for updated information.
b) Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
c) Contact your healthcare provider if you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and continue to shelter in place.
d) Wear appropriate gear during clean-up such as thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.

If you are under a tsunami warning:
a) If caused by an earthquake, Drop, Cover, then Hold On to protect yourself from the earthquake first.
b) Get to high ground as far inland as possible
c) Be alert to signs of a tsunami, such as a sudden rise or draining of ocean waters.
d) Listen to emergency information and alerts. Always follow the instructions from local emergency managers.
e) Evacuate: DO NOT wait! Leave as soon as you see any natural signs of a tsunami or receive an official tsunami warning.
f) If you are in a boat, go out to sea
During a tsunami:
a) If there is an earthquake and you are in a tsunami area, protect yourself from the earthquake first. Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Drop to your hands and knees. Cover your head and neck with your arms. Hold on to any sturdy furniture until the shaking stops. Crawl only if you can reach a better cover, but do not go through an area with more debris.
b) When the shaking stops, if there are natural signs or official warnings of a tsunami, move immediately to a safe place as high and as far inland as possible. Listen to the authorities, but do not wait for tsunami warnings and evacuation orders.
c) If you are outside of the tsunami hazard zone and receive a warning, stay where you are unless officials tell you otherwise.
d) Leave immediately if you are told to do so. Evacuation routes often are marked by a wave with an arrow in the direction of higher ground.
e) If you are in the water, then grab onto something that floats, such as a raft or tree trunk.
f) If you are in a boat, face the direction of the waves and head out to sea. If you are in a harbor, go inland.
After a tsunami:
a) Listen to local alerts and authorities for information on areas to avoid and shelter locations.
b) Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems often are down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
c) Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris. Water may be deeper than it appears.
d) Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Underground or downed power lines can electrically charge water. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.
e) Stay away from damaged buildings, roads and bridges.
f) If you become injured or sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider and shelter in place, if possible. Call 9-1-1 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

A volcanic eruption can:
a) Contaminate water supplies.
b) Damage machinery.
c) Reduce visibility through smog and harmful gasses that may threaten low-lying areas.
d) Make it hard to breathe and irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat.
If you are under a volcano warning:
a) Listen for emergency information and alerts.
b) Follow evacuation or shelter orders. If advised to evacuate, do so early.
c) Reduce your ash exposure by doing the following:
i) Limit your time outdoors and use a dust mask or cloth mask as a last resort if you must be outside.
ii) Avoid areas downwind and river valleys downstream of the volcano.
iii) Take temporary shelter from volcanic ash in the location where you are.
iv) Cover ventilation openings and seal doors and windows.
v) Avoid driving in heavy ash. If you must drive, keep the windows up and do not use the air conditioning system.
vi) Do not get on your roof to remove ash.
vii) Stay indoors until authorities say it is safe to go outside.
Staying safe during a volcanic eruption:
a) Listen to alerts. The Volcano Notification Service provides up-to-date information about eruptions.
b) Follow evacuation orders from local authorities. Evacuate early.
c) Avoid areas downwind, and river valleys downstream of the volcano. Rubble and ash will be carried by wind and gravity.
d) Take temporary shelter from volcanic ash in the location where you are, if you have enough supplies. Cover ventilation openings and seal doors and windows.
e) If outside, protect yourself from falling ash that can irritate skin and injure breathing passages, eyes and open wounds. Use a well-fitting, certified face mask, such as an N95.
f) Use goggles and wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses. Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help with breathing
g) Avoid driving in heavy ash fall.
Staying safe afterwards:
a) Listen to authorities to find out when it is safe to return after an eruption. Stay indoors until authorities say it is safe to go outside.
b) Send text messages or use social media to reach out to family and friends. Phone systems often are busy after a disaster. Only make emergency calls.
c) Avoid driving in heavy ash. Driving will stir up volcanic ash that can clog engines and stall vehicles.
d) Avoid contact with ash if you have any breathing problems. People with asthma and/or other lung conditions should take precaution in areas with poor air quality, as it can worsen symptoms.
e) Do not get on your roof to remove ash unless you have guidance or training. If you have to remove ash, then be very careful as ash makes surfaces slippery. Be careful not to contribute additional weight to an overloaded roof.
f) Wear protective clothing and a mask when cleaning up. Children should not help with cleanup efforts.

How to prepare for a wildfire:
a) Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which requires no-sign up.
b) Pay attention to air quality alerts.
c) Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands what to do if you need to quickly evacuate.
d) Don’t forget a plan for the office, kids’ daycare and anywhere you frequent.
e) Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, like ID, are up to date.
f) Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.
g) Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate or make repairs.
h) Find an outdoor water source with a hose that can reach any area of your property.
i) Create a fire-resistant zone that is free of leaves, debris or flammable materials for at least 30 feet from your home.
j) Designate a room that can be closed off from outside air. Close all doors and windows. Set up a portable air cleaner to keep indoor pollution levels low when smoky conditions exist.
k) You may have to evacuate quickly due to a wildfire. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with household, pets and identify where you will go.
l) Follow the instructions from local authorities. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
m) Have enough supplies for your household, including a first aid kit, in your go bag or car trunk.
i) Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
ii) Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, making essential purchases and slowly building up supplies in advance will allow for longer time periods between shopping trips.
n) Be cautious when carrying flammable or combustible household products that can cause fires or explosions if handled wrong, such as aerosols, cooking oils, rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizer.
o) If available, store an N95 mask to protect yourself from smoke inhalation.
p) Keep your cell phone charged when wildfires could be in your area. Purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
How to stay safe during a wildfire:
a) Pay attention to emergency alerts and notifications for information and instructions.
b) Evacuate immediately if authorities tell you to do so!
i) Check with local authorities for the latest information about public shelters or check open locations on the FEMA app. You can also download the free Red Cross Emergency app for a list of open Red Cross shelters in your area.
ii) Consider making plans with friends or family to shelter with them where you may be safer and more comfortable.
c) If trapped, call 9-1-1 and give your location, but be aware that emergency response could be delayed or impossible. Turn on lights to help rescuers find you.
d) Use an N95 mask to protect yourself from smoke inhalation or limit your exposure to smoke by doing the following:
i) Choose a room to close off from outside air and set up a portable air cleaner or filter to keep the air in this room clean even when it’s smoky in the rest of the building and outdoors.
ii) Use high efficiency filters in your central air conditioning system to capture fine particles from smoke. If your system has fresh air intake, set the system to “recirculate” mode and close the outdoor intake damper.
iii) If you are not ordered to evacuate but smoky conditions exist, stay inside in a safe location or go to a community building where smoke levels are lower.
e) If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible.
Returning home after a wildfire:
a) Do not return home until authorities say it is safe to do so.
b) Avoid hot ash, charred trees, smoldering debris and live embers. The ground may contain heat pockets that can burn you or spark another fire.
c) When cleaning, wear protective clothing – including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes – during clean-up efforts.
d) Use a respirator to limit your exposure, and wet debris to minimize breathing dust particles. People with asthma, COPD and/or other lung conditions should take precautions in areas with poor air quality, as it can worsen symptoms.
e) Send text messages or use social media to reach out to family and friends. Phone systems are often busy following a disaster. Make calls only in emergencies.

How to protect yourself from winter weather:
a) Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups. Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Remember the needs of your pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights. If you are unable to afford your heating costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help.
b) Be prepared for winter weather at home, at work and in your car. Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep a full tank of gas.
Staying safe during winter weather:
a) Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
b) Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
c) Reduce the risk of a heart attack by avoiding overexertion when shoveling snow and walking in the snow.
Winter Weather related medical emergencies:
a) Frostbite
i) Signs: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin.
ii) Actions: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.
b) Hypothermia
i) Signs: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech or drowsiness.
ii) Actions: Go to a warm room. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.
Generator Safety:
a) Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.
b) Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family and pets.
c) Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
d) Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
e) Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
f) Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Natural Disasters and How to Stay Safe