Preparing for emergencies

Preparing for emergencies is something that many people already do; a few minutes spent reading this advice will help you to be better prepared.

To prepare for an emergency, you should take time to find out:

• Where and how to turn off water, gas and electricity supplies in your home
• The emergency procedures for your children at school
• The emergency procedures at your workplace
• How your family will stay in contact in the event of an emergency
• If any elderly or vulnerable neighbours might need your help
• How to tune in to your local radio station

All incidents or emergencies are different in terms of the dangers to members of the public and the response required. During a ‘major incident’ whether from severe weather or terrorist attack, the emergency services may not be able to reach you immediately and you may have to survive a few days on your own. Power and water may be lost and you may have to evacuate quickly.

However, there are some practical and inexpensive measures that you can adopt to assist the emergency services and help you cope with the situation.

Keep a set of Emergency Provisions:

• A list of contact numbers of friends and relatives
• Medication and prescriptions
• Warm clothing or blankets
• Canned food and bottled water
• Torch/batteries/candles/matches
• Portable radio and batteries/wind-up radio
• Basic cutlery and a tin opener
• Know how to turn off the gas, electricity and water supplies
• Store important documentation such as passports, driving licenses, birth or marriage certificates, insurance policies and sentimental items in a secure and waterproof container that can be easily assessable.
• Have an emergency pack ready
• Make emergency arrangements with relatives, friends and neighbours, e.g. to provide temporary accommodation.  We have an Evacuation checklist and Emergency Reception Centre Information available to download.