Emergency Response Planning Checklists
You can prepare for any serious emergency now. You should know the magnitude of what can happen during any situation that disrupts and endangers daily life, and you should consider the actions you can take to help lessen the impact on you and your family. The following checklist will help you gather the information resources you may need.
Supplies
- Students living in residence halls do not need to assume this responsibility. Adequate food and water will be maintained for students.
- Store water and food. A two- to four-week supply is recommended. Drinking water and food items that are easy to prepare and that have an exended shelf life are recommended. Canned goods, sanitary cartons and dried foods are best, as frozen items will spoil if there is a loss of power.
- Have a three-month supply of prescription drugs on hand.
- Have nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.
- Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they became ill, or what would be needed to care for them at home.
- Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response.
- Get involved in your community as it works to prepare for a serious emergency.
Limiting infection, in case of disease
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water or an alcohol-based cleaner. Model this behavior for others.
- Cover mouth and nose during coughs and sneezes with tissues, and be sure to model this behavior.
- Dispose of tissues immediately.
- When you are ill, stay away from others as much as possible. Stay away from work and school until you are well.
Items to have on hand
Examples of nonperishable foods | Examples of emergency, medical and health supplies |
---|---|
Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and soups | Prescribed medicines |
Protein bars or fruit bars | Items for those with chronic illness |
Dry cereal or granola |
Soap and water or alcohol-based handwash |
Peanut butter or nuts | Fever-lowering acetaminophen or ibuprofen |
Dried fruit | Anti-diarrheal medication |
Crackers | Decongestants and cough syrup |
Dried or canned milk | Vitamins |
Canned juices | Fluids with electrolytes |
Bottled water | Cleansing agents: soap and bleach |
Canned or jarred baby food and formula | Flashlights, portable radio and batteries |
Pet food | Candles |
Hard candy | Manual can opener and garbage bags |
Tissues, toilet paper, paper towels | |
Clean rags | |
Disposable diapers (if needed) |