You and your family members may not be in the same place when an emergency happens. Planning ahead, talking about – and practicing – what to do during and after an emergency will help you remain calm, think clearly and react appropriately. Discuss how you will get to a safe place, get in touch with each other and get back to each other.
Your plans should include:
Phone numbers of a pre-designated contact person for family members to call should you become separated
Where to meet if separated
Potential shelter locations for you and your pets
How to be safe if you remain in your home during a disaster
Be sure to assemble an emergency preparedness kit and keep it in a convenient, readily accessible location. You should have one for your home, office and automobile.
Self-preparedness not only increases your and your family's ability to survive, but also reduces the workload of first responders, emergency medical services, fire fighters and law enforcement.
North Carolina Department of Public Safety
The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986 was created to help communities plan for chemical emergencies. It also requires industry to report on the storage, use and releases of hazardous substances to federal, state, and local governments. EPCRA requires state and local governments, and Indian tribes to use this information to prepare for and protect their communities from potential risks.