The next time disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. Prepare now for a sudden emergency. 1. Learn about: Types of disasters that might occur and how to prepare for them. How you would be warned. Evacuation routes and centers that the community has established. About special assistance for elderly or disabled persons. 2. Create an Emergency Plan for your home and family. (See full pamphlet at city offices) 3. Have an emergency checklist to follow. Post it in visible places. 4. Prepare a disaster supplies kit. 5. Identify and remove hazards in home before the emergency: Repair any defective wiring or gas connections. Fasten shelves securely. Place large heavy objects on lower shelves. Hang pictures and mirrors away from beds. Brace over head light fixtures. Strap water heater to wall studs. Replace gas lines with flexible gas lines. Repair cracks in ceilings or foundations. Store chemicals properly, separately, away from heat sources. Place oily polishing rags or waste in covered cans. Clean, repair chimneys, flue pipes, vent connectors, and gas vents. 6. If you need to evacuate: Listen to instructions on battery-powered radio. Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes. Take your 72 hour kit. Lock your house. Take care of pets. Use routes designated by emergency officials. Shut off gas, electricity, and water - if time. Let others know that you left (your contacts in your family plan) and where you are going. 7. Have an emergency kit in your car that has: Battery-operated radio. Flashlight and batteries. Blankets. Booster cables. Fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type). First aid kit and manual. Water and nonperishable, high-energy foods. Maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, and flares. 8. Have an emergency escape plan for evacuating house: Two escape routes out of each room. Teach family members to stay low to ground when escaping a fire. Never open doors that are hot, feel bottom of door, if hot don't open. Clean and check smoke detectors monthly. Have a collapsible ladder on each upper floor of the house. For more information, see the full pamphlet available at your city offices.