Preparing for emergencies

How to be better prepared for emergencies

Being prepared

Emergencies can and do happen, anything from severe weather and flooding to large scale fires requiring the evacuation of local people. The danger posed to the public and the response needed will depend on the nature of the incident or emergency. However, there are some relatively simple and inexpensive measures you can take to minimise potential disruption and to improve your self reliance.

Tips for improving self-reliance:

Home emergency kit:

Keep a battery-powered or wind-up torch in an easy-to-find spot in case place in case of a disruption to the power supply.
Have a battery powered or wind-up radio available so you can tune in to the local radio station for information and advice.
Keep a small supply of ready-to-eat food that needs no preparation or cooking.
Keep a supply of fresh bottled water in case of a disruption to the water supply.
Have some warm clothing or blankets available in case of a disruption to the power supply.
Ensure that your land line telephone will work if there is a power cut (so is not reliant on electricity). Do not rely solely on a mobile 'phone as networks may become overloaded and the mobile phone may need recharging.
Remember to maintain a supply of batteries.
Make sure all medication and prescriptions are stored safely but easy to find if you are asked to evacuate your home (and remember to take them with you).
Identify any special needs or requirements that anyone in your house or premises may have (the elderly, young children, those on medication or those with disabilities, etc).
Keep a list of useful telephone numbers to hand (GPs, SKDC,utility companies, insurance company etc).
Make sure you know how to switch off gas, electricity and water supplies to your house or premises.
Make sure you have adequate insurance.

Car kit

A torch and spare batteries.
A container for fuel.
An updated road map.
A couple of blankets.
A flask.
A small shovel.
A first aid kit.
Normal vehicle tools and spares.

Pets Prepared

If you have to evacuate from your home try to bring your pets with you, pets will be allowed in emergency rest centres however it may be better to identify a friend, relative or boarding kennel that would be willing to take in your pets in an emergency. Remember to listen in to local radio at the first warning of a potential emergency, get your pets indoors and make preparations ready to evacuate if needs be. You should be prepared to take the following items with you for your pets: