Since the 1900 Galveston Hurricane, The Salvation Army has served survivors and first responders of every major natural disaster. After more than a century of meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those impacted, we have established expert disaster response protocol in thousands of communities nationwide.
While disaster often strikes with little or no notice, these simple steps can help your family stay prepared and protected:
Outline where you will meet and how you will reconnect if separated. Make a list of nearby organizations who can provide shelter and food. Locate your home’s water and gas shut-off valves for future reference. To make an emergency plan, go to ready.gov/make-a-plan.
Take a CPR and first aid certification class. For more lifesaving skills, check visit ready.gov/safety-skills.
Stock key essentials such as water, nonperishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, matches, a power pack, dust masks, and gloves. Remember to include any vital items such as eyeglasses and contacts, photocopies of identification documents, and necessary prescriptions. For a checklist of items to include in your emergency supply kit, go to ready.gov/build-a-kit.
Make sure your current plan includes coverage for common hazards throughout your region.
Familiarize yourself with local organizations trained in disaster response.
Find out if your area supports a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) by visiting ready.gov/emergency-response-team
