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Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as making an emergency supply kit and developing a family communications plan, are the same for both a natural or man-made emergency. However, there are important differences among potential emergencies that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take.
Learn what disasters or emergencies may occur where you live, work and play. These events can vary from those affecting only you and your family, like a home fire or medical emergency, to those affecting your entire community, like a tornado or flood.
Identify how local authorities will notify you during a disaster and how you will get important information, whether through local radio, TV or NOAA weather radio stations or channels.
Learn what you can do to prepare for disasters by contacting your local Chapter to ask about first aid, CPR and disaster training. Learning simple first aid techniques can give you the skills and confidence to help when someone in your home, your neighborhood or workplace is injured.
Share what you have learned with your family, household and neighbors and encourage them to be informed too.
Emergency preparedness is no longer the sole concern of earthquake prone Californians and those who live in the part of the country known as "Tornado Alley." For Americans, preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count. To learn more about the potential emergencies that could happen in Eastern Iowa and the appropriate way to respond to them click on the safety tips link to your left.
The three steps below can help you to react well in an emergency.
- Check the scene for hazards and the victim for life-threatening conditions.
- Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number and request professional assistance.
- Care for the victim if you can reach the person safely.
Calling 911
If someone is in a life-threatening situation or is unconscious, call 911 right away.
When you call 911 be prepared to say:
- Your name.
- The phone number from which you are calling.
- Why you are calling-what has happened.
- Your exact location (including intersections, landmarks, building name or apartment number).
- How many people have been injured and their condition.
- What first aid help is being given.
- Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.
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