Emergencies — such as a fire, storm or other natural disaster — can happen at any time. To minimize your risks and keep your family safe, it's best to be prepared.

Emergency preparedness

Here's what you should do to make sure you're ready for the next emergency.

• Create an emergency supply kit. Include bottled water, non-perishable foods, a can opener, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets and first aid supplies.
• Designate family meeting spots. Pick a meeting spot near your home in case of a fire. Choose a second location in your area in case family members cannot return home after a disaster.
• Select emergency contacts. Name one local and one out-of-state relative or friend to serve as a secondary contact in case your family is separated during a disaster. Make sure all family members have their contact information.
• Know your escape routes. Identify multiple escape routes from each room in your house in case of a fire. Also, learn how to evacuate your area quickly in case of severe weather or other disaster.
• Share your plan. Make sure everyone knows and understands your emergency plan. Ensure that all family members know what to do for each type of disaster, where to meet and how to contact emergency responders.

Stay up to date by refreshing your supply kit at least once per year and by regularly reminding all family members about your plan and what they need to do in case of an emergency.

Preparing for a power outage

Although your electric service is generally very reliable, some emergency situations can result in a temporary power outage. Make sure you're ready with these tips.

• Keep an adequate supply of flashlights with fresh batteries in easily accessible locations around your house.
• If a family member requires access to powered medical equipment, coordinate an emergency plan with your health care provider.
• Keep heavy blankets and quilts available in case an outage occurs during cold weather.
• Maintain backup generators according to the manufacturer's recommendations and store an adequate supply of fuel in a safe place.
• Don't attempt to connect your generator to the electrical system. It can backfeed to outdoor utility lines and endanger utility service personnel.

See Ready.gov from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or your state emergency management agency for more information about disaster preparedness.