Emergency planning for you and your family
Planning for an emergency
To prepare for an emergency, you should take time to find
out:
- where and how to turn off water, gas and electricity supplies
in your home
- the emergency procedures for your children at
school
- the emergency procedures at your workplace
- how your family will stay in contact in the event of an
emergency
- if any elderly or vulnerable neighbours might need your
help
- how to tune in to your local radio station
At home in an emergency
If you are at home and an emergency happens, try to gather
together:
- a list of useful phone numbers, such as your doctor's and
close relatives'
- home and car keys
- toiletries, sanitary supplies and any regularly
prescribed medication
- a battery radio, with spare batteries
- a torch with spare batteries, candles and
matches
- a first aid kit
- your mobile phone
- cash and credit cards
- spare clothes and blankets
- bottled water, ready-to-eat food (eg tinned food) and a
bottle/tin opener, in case you have to remain in your home
for several days
Leaving your home during an emergency
In certain very unlikely situations, you may be asked to leave
your home by the emergency services. If this happens, leave as
quickly and calmly as possible. And, if you have time:
- turn off electricity, gas and water supplies, unplug appliances
and lock all doors and windows
- take the items listed above
- if you leave by car, take bottled water and blankets
- tune in to local radio for emergency advice and
instructions
Returning home after an emergency
When you are told that it is safe to return home, open windows
to provide fresh air before reconnecting gas, electricity and water
supplies.
This information is taken from guidance issued by the UK
Government.
