A FAMILY PREPAREDNESS

GUIDE
This Guide
Will Help
You to:
Learn what to do
before, during,
and after an
emergency

Create an
emergency plan
for your family

Prepare an
emergency
supply kit

Contact specific
agencies for more
information

Michigan State Police

Emergency Management Division
 A message from the Michigan State Police
Emergency Management Division

Since the horrific events of September 11th, there are certain steps we must
take to protect Michigan families for the known and unknown threats that
may confront us.

This Emergency and Family Preparedness Guide has been created to help
you develop an emergency plan, provide information on how to assemble a
Emergency Supply Kit, and provides specific contact telephone numbers and
websites you can use for emergency assistance.

Emergencies can strike at any time. Families, neighborhoods and local

communities can improve their safety by working together with emergency
managers, law enforcement, and local school administration staff.

We all have a responsibility to be ready. We hope you find this guide useful.

Sincerely,

Capt. Eddie Washington

Commander
Michigan State Police
Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division

What’s Inside
The following pages will help you:

þ Learn what to do before, during, and after an emergency.

þ Create a family emergency plan.
þ Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit.
þ How to contact specific state agencies for help.
Before an Emergency Strikes
An emergency can occur without warning, leaving little or no time for you and your family to plan . What would you
do if basic services-water, gas, electricity or telephones-were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on
the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away. It is necessary for you to learn about the things
that you can do to be prepared — before an emergency occurs. Follow the steps listed in this brochure to create
your family’s disaster plan. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.

4 Steps to Safety
1 Find Out What Could Happen to You
l Meet with household members and discuss the dangers of possible emergency events, including fire, severe
weather, hazardous spills, and terrorism.
l Learn about your community’s warning signals: what it sounds like and what you should do when you hear it.
l Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed.
l Ask about animal care after a disaster. Animals may not be allowed inside emergency shelters due to health
regulations.
l Find out about the disaster plans in your workplace, your children’s school or daycare center and other places
where your family spends time.

2 Create a Disaster Plan

l Pick two places to meet:
1-Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.
2-Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. All family members must know the address and phone
number.
l Choose an out-of-town or out-of-state contact your family or household will call or e-mail to check on each
other should a disaster occur. Other family members should call this person and tell them where they are.
Everyone must know your contact’s phone number.
l Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan how to take care of your pets.

3 Complete This Checklist

o Post emergency telephone numbers by the phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.).
o Teach children how and when to call 911 for emergency help.
o Show each family member how to and when to turn off the water, gas and electricity at the main switches.
o Check if you have adequate insurance coverage, with special attention to flood
insurance.
o Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type) and show Prior to an Emergency
them where it’s kept. Check on the School
o Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms. Emergency Plan...
o Stock emergency supplies and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit. You need to know if they will
o Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class. keep children at school until a
o Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster. parent or designated adult can
o Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each pick them up or send them
room. home. Be sure that the school
has updated information about

4 Practice and Maintain Your Plan

how to reach parents and
responsible caregivers to arrange
l Quiz your kids every six months so they remember what to do. for pick up. Ask what type of
l Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills. authorization the school may
l Replace stored water every six months and stored food every six months. require to release your child.
l Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions. During times of emergency, the
l Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries twice each year school telephones may be
when you set your clocks for daylight savings or standard time. overwhelmed with calls.
When An Emergency Strikes
During and after an emergency occurs, it is important to stay calm. Even after an event, there may still be many dangers.
What seems like a safe distance or location may not be. Stay tuned to your local emergency station and follow the
advice of trained professionals. Unless told to evacuate, avoid roads to allow emergency vehicles access. What you
do next can save your life and the lives of others.

During an emergency you might be cut off from food, water and electricity for several days or more. If power is out,
food stores may be closed and your water supply may not work. Here are some suggestions:

Water: If a disaster catches you without a supply of clean water, you can use ice cubes and the water in your hot-
water tank or pipes. If it is safe to go outside, you can also purify water from streams or rivers, rainwater, ponds and
lakes, natural springs and snow by boiling (for 5 minutes), distilling or disinfection. To purify water with bleach, use
10 drops of bleach per gallon of water. Use only regular household liquid bleach that contains only 5.25% sodium
hypochlorite.

Food: During and right after an emergency, it will be important that you keep up your strength by eating at least
one well-balanced meal each day. Take vitamin, mineral and/or protein supplements.

If Your Power Goes Out

n Remain calm, and assist family members or neighbors who may be vulnerable if exposed to extreme heat or cold.
n Locate a flashlight with batteries to use until power comes back on. Do not use candles—this can cause a fire.
n Turn off sensitive electric equipment such as computers, VCRs, and televisions.
n Turn off major electric appliances that were on when the power went off. This will help to prevent power surges
when electricity is restored.
n Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to keep cold in and heat out.
n Do not use the stove to heat your home - this can cause a fire or fatal gas leak.
n Use extreme caution when driving. If traffic signals are out, treat each signal as a stop sign—come to a complete stop
at every intersection and look before you proceed.
n Do not call 9-1-1 to ask about the power outage. Listen to the news radio stations for updates.

Pets should not be left behind. If you have no

other choice but to leave your pet at home,
If You Have Pets place your pet in a safe area inside your
home with plenty of water and food. Never
Create a survival kit for your pet. This should include:
leave pets chained outside. Place a note
n Identification collar and rabies tag.
outside your home listing what pets are inside,
n Carrier or cage.
where they are located, and phone numbers of
n Leash.
n Any medications (be sure to check expiration dates). where you can be reached.
n Newspapers and plastic trash bags for handling waste.
n At least a 2-week supply of food, water, and food bowls.
n Veterinary records (most animal shelters do not allow pets without proof of vaccination).

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Working with neighbors in an emergency can save lives and property. Meet with your commu-
nity members to plan how you could work together until help arrives. If you’re a member of a
neighborhood organization, such as a home association or crime watch group, introduce emer-
gency preparedness as a new activity. Know your neighbor’s special skills and consider how
you could help those with special needs, such as people with disabilities and elderly persons.
 Michigan’s Hazards
Technological Hazards
If you are notified or become aware of a technological hazard such as a hazardous spill/release, fire, or explosion,
do not panic. If you need to get out of the surrounding area or are directed to evacuate, do so immediately.

How to Evacuate
n Take your Emergency Supply Kit.
n Lock your home.
n Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth if told to do so.
n Travel on routes specified by local authorities.
n Head upwind of the incident.
Emergency personnel are
If you are sure you have time: trained to respond to
n Shut off water, gas, and electricity before leaving.
these situations. They will
n Post a note telling others when you left and where you are going.
n Make arrangements for your pets. tell you what to do, either
at the incident site, or via
TV or radio.
How to Shelter in Place
If you are instructed to stay inside and not to evacuate:
n Close and lock windows and doors.
n Seal gaps under doorways and windows with wet towels and duct tape if told to do so.
n Turn off ventilation systems, water, and gas.

Terrorism
Terrorist attacks have left many concerned about the possibility of future incidents in the United States and their
potential impact. Terrorist goals are to destabilize government and panic citizens. They try to keep us guessing
about what might happen next, increasing our worries. However, there are things you and your family can do to
prepare for the unexpected . This can reduce the stress that you may feel now and later should another emer-
gency arise. Being prepared ahead of time can reassure you and your children that you can
have a measure of control even in the face of such events.

What can you do?

n Prepare to deal with a terrorist incident by adapting many of the same techniques used to
prepare for other crises.
n Take precautions when traveling. Be aware of suspicious or unusual behavior. Do not
accept packages from strangers. Do not leave luggage unattended.
n Learn basic first aid - Enroll in a first aid CPR course at your local Red Cross.
n Volunteer to help your community prepare for and respond to emergencies through the
Michigan Citizen Corps at:
http://www.michigan.gov/mcsc/0,1607,7-137-6115-34574--,00.html

Homeland Security Advisory System

Natural Hazards
Michigan is vulnerable to a variety of types of severe weather including tornadoes, thunderstorms, flash floods, snow-
storms, and ice storms. Because of this, it is important for you to understand the difference between a watch and a
warning for severe weather. A severe storm watch means that severe weather may develop. A severe weather warning
means a storm has developed and is on its way—take cover immediately!

The safest place to ride out any storm is inside a secure building, home or apartment building. You should:
n Listen to weather updates and stay informed.
n Be ready to evacuate if necessary.
n Keep away from windows and doors.
n Have your Emergency Supply Kit handy.
n Purchase a battery operated NOAA weather radio.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes are dangerous because of their high winds and ability to lift and move heavy objects. If you receive a tornado
warning, seek shelter immediately.

At home:
n Go to the basement, storm shelter, or room near the center of the house.
n In a high-rise or other public building: Move to the interior, preferably a stairwell or hallway.

If you are in your car:

n STOP! Get out and lie flat face down in a low area.
n Cover your head and wait for the tornado to pass.
n Do not use overpasses as a shelter.

Flooding
Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters and can occur nearly anywhere in the United
States. The sheer force of just six inches of swiftly moving water can knock people off their feet.

n Find out if you live in a flood-prone area and identify dams in your area.
n Ask your local emergency management coordinator about official flood warning signals.
n Flash flooding can be very dangerous because of strong, swift currents.
n If flood waters rise around your car, get out and move to higher ground immediately. Cars can be easily swept
away in just 2 feet of moving water.
n Stay away from and report downed power lines.

Winter Storms and Ice Storms

Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Even areas which normally experience mild
winters can be hit with a major snow storm or extreme cold. The results can range from isolation to the havoc of
cars and trucks sliding on icy highways.

n Know the terms used by weather forecasters.

n Purchase a battery-powered NOAA weather radio.
n Listen to the radio or television for weather reports and emergency information.
n Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel.
n Make sure you have an alternate heat source and a supply of fuel.
n Wear several layers of loose fitting, light weight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing.

Recovering from an Emergency

Recovery continues even after you return home, as you and your family face the emotional and psychological effects of
the event. Reactions vary from person to person, but may include:

n Restless sleep or nightmares n Loss of appetite

n Anger or wanting revenge n Weight loss or gain
n Numbness or lack of emotion n Headaches
n Needing to keep active, restlessness n Mood swings
n Needing to talk about your experiences

All of the above are normal reactions to stressful events, and it is important to let people react in their own way.
In particular, children may need reassurance and extra attention. It is best to encourage them to share their feelings, even
if you must listen to their stories repeatedly—this is a common way for children to grasp what they’ve experienced. You
may also want to share your feelings about the event with them.
Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit
You should gather water, food, first-aid supplies, clothing, bedding, tools and other essentials ahead of
time and be ready in the event you must evacuate or go without electricity, heat, or water for an extended
period. The kit can be put into 5-gallon buckets, duffel bags, or backpacks.

You should consider including the following items in an

Emergency Supply Kit:
Water 3-day supply of water.
G1 gallon per person per day. Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Replace every 6 months.
Food 3- to 5-day supply of nonperishable packaged or canned food per person.
GReady to eat canned meats, fruits & vegetables GSmoked or dried meats such as beef jerky
GSoups-bouillon cubes or dried soups in a cup GVitamins
GMilk-powdered or canned GHigh energy foods-peanut butter, nuts, trail mix
GStress foods-sugar cookies, hard candy GSugar, salt, pepper
GJuices-canned, powdered or crystallized

Clothing & Bedding Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.
GSturdy shoes or work boots GHats & gloves, extra warm clothing
GWarm socks, rain gear GThermal underwear
GBlankets or sleeping bags GSunglasses
First Aid Kit
GSterile adhesive bandages GBar of soap
G3-inch sterile gauze pads (8-12) GMoistened towelletes
GTriangular bandages (3) GAntiseptic spray
G2-inch sterile gauze pads (8-12) GNon-breakable thermometer
GHypoallergenic adhesive tape GLatex gloves
G2 & 3-inch sterile roller bandages GPetroleum jelly
GScissors GAssorted sizes of safety pins
GTweezers GCleansing agent –soap
GNeedles GTongue blades and wooden applicator sticks
GSafety razor blade GWater purification tablets
Tools & Supplies
GMess kits, paper cups, plastic utensils GMaps (state, county, city)
GBatteries, battery operated radio GFire extinguisher
GFlashlight, extra bulbs, extra batteries GMoney
GWooden matches in waterproof container GFamily emergency plan
GAluminum foil, plastic storage containers GCan opener (hand-operated)
GSignal flare GUtility knife, paper towels
GPaper, pencil and needles, thread GTube tent/tarp
GShovel & other useful tools GMedicine dropper
GPlastic sheeting, duct tape GDust mask and work gloves
Sanitation
GPersonal hygiene items GSpray disinfectant
GPlastic garbage bags and ties GTowelettes or diaper wipes
GPlastic bucket w/tight lid GToilet paper
Special Items
For Baby GBottles
GFormula, Juice GPowdered milk
GDiapers/wipes GMedications
For Adult
GHeart and high blood pressure medications GExtra eyeglasses
GInsulin GEntertainment –games, books
GPrescription drugs GCell phone
GDenture needs GPrepaid phone card
GContact lenses and supplies
Important Family Documents Keep copies in the emergency supply kit.
GImportant phone numbers GImmunizations records
GWills, insurance polices GFamily records (birth, marriage, death)
GContracts, deeds, stocks and bonds GInventory of valuable household goods
GPassports, social security cards
 Emergency Telephone Numbers
Local Contact Contacts
Name_______________________________________________________
Emergency help number
City________________________________________________________
911or local emergency dispatch
Telephone (day) ( ) - ___________ (evening) ( ) - _______________
_______________________
Cellular Phone ( ) - __________________
Michigan Poison Control Center
Out of Area Contact 1-800-222-1222 also (TDD)
Name_______________________________________________________
City________________________________________________________ Downed power lines for
Consumers Energy
Telephone (day) ( ) - ___________ (evening) ( ) - _______________
1-800-477-5050
Cellular Phone ( ) - __________________
DTE Energy
Nearest Relative 1-800-477-4747 - 7am to 7pm
Name_______________________________________________________
City________________________________________________________ Coast Guard Emergency Service
Telephone (day) ( ) - ___________ (evening) ( ) - _______________ 1-800-321-4400
Cellular Phone ( ) - __________________
Center For Disease Control
(CDC) 404/639-3311
Family Work Numbers
Father_____________________________ EPA Haz Waste Hotline
Mother____________________________ 1-800-621-8431
Other______________________________
National Pesticide Network
Emergency Telephone Numbers 1-800-858-7378 (24 HRS)
Police Department_____________________
FBI-Explosives Unit-Bomb Data
Fire Department_______________________
Center 703-632-8440
Hospital_____________________________
Agricultural Spills In Michigan
Family Physicians 517-373-0440

Name___________________________telephone____________________ Web Sites

Name___________________________telephone____________________
For more information go to the
Name___________________________telephone____________________
Michigan State Police website at:
http://www.michigan.gov/msp
Reunion Locations or the
1. Right outside your home ____________________________________ Emergency Management Division
website at:
_________________________________________________________
http://www.MspEmd.org
2. Away from the neighborhood, in case you cannot return home
_________________________________________________________ http://www.ready.gov/
Address__________________________________________________ http://www.redcross.org
Telephone_________________________________________________ http://www.fema.gov
Route to try first_____________________________________________ http://www.whitehouse.gov/homeland/
_________________________________________________________
Utilities:
Electric Company ___________________________ Telephone Company_________________________
Gas Company______________________________ Water Company____________________________
Cable TV Company__________________________