The Next Emergency: Are You Prepared?
September is National Preparedness Month. It's designed to highlight the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Storms, fires and other disasters can happen at any time, often with little warning. Take action now to minimize your risks and keep your family safe when the next disaster strikes.
Emergency preparedness
Here's what you should do to make sure you're ready for the next emergency.
Create an emergency supply kit. Include bottled water, non-perishable foods, a can opener, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets and first aid supplies.
Designate family meeting spots. Pick a meeting spot near your home in case of a fire. Choose a second location in your area in case family members cannot return home after a disaster.
Select emergency contacts. Name one local and one out-of-state relative or friend to serve as a secondary contact in case your family is separated during a disaster. Make sure all family members have their contact information.
Know your escape routes. Identify multiple escape routes from each room in your house in case of a fire. Also, learn how to evacuate your area quickly in case of severe weather or other disasters.
Share your plan. Make sure everyone knows and understands your emergency plan. Ensure that all family members know what to do for each type of disaster, where to meet and how to contact emergency responders.
Stay up to date by refreshing your supply kit at least once a year and by regularly reminding all family members about your plan and what they need to do in case of an emergency.
See Ready.gov from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or your state emergency management agency for more information about disaster preparedness.
Helping our customers be safe at home and at work around electricity is a top priority. Check out a collection of some tips at IndianaMichiganPower.com/Safety.
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