As winter begins, check that your home and car are ready for an emergency. In case of earthquake, prepare your home by securing heavy furniture that could topple. Know how to turn off utilities that could become hazardous. Emergencies can also happen on the road — keep an emergency kit and first aid kit in the trunk.
Home
- Know where your gas, electric, and water main shutoff controls are and how to turn them off if needed. Keep necessary tools easy to reach, in your emergency kit or other designated area.
- Gas appliances should be fitted with flexible connections and/or a breakaway gas shut-off device, or install a main gas shut-off device.
- Secure water heater(s) to walls.
- Anchor bookcases and other tall, heavy furniture pieces to walls.
- Install latches on drawers and cabinet doors to keep contents from spilling out.
- Secure ceiling lights and hanging items such as chandeliers and plants to the permanent structure of your house.
- Apply safety film to windows and glass doors.
Car
- Check your tires and make sure your chains fit before the first winter storm. Check tire pressure during cold weather.
- Get a vehicle check-up. Check your battery, belts, hoses, radiator, lights, brakes, heater/defroster, and wipers.
- Keep a basic winter survival kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight, batteries, blanket, snacks, water, gloves, boots, and first-aid kit.
- Keep emergency winter road gear in the car. Include tire chains, ice scraper, snowbrush, jumper cables, and road flares.
Supplies
- Water: Continue to build your water supply. Remember, store 1 gallon of water per person per day
- Food: Continue to add to your supply of non-perishable food
- Cash: Start putting cash away to cover critical expenses in the event electricity is out for an extended period of time. Keep cash in small bills.
- Personal hygiene items
Talk About It
Talk with the members of your household about:
- What are your backup transportation methods and routes?
- Who will care for the kids, grandparents, and pets if you can’t get to them?
Out of State Help
Select an out of state friend or relative to assist communications during an emergency. Designate this person to be the main contact for your group of friends or family. Ensure everyone in your group has the contact number saved in their phone or wallet.
One Step Ahead
- Program your vehicle’s radio for stations that report traffic and emergency messages
- Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs, and other hazards if the emergency could impact the physical stability of the roadway.