Natural disasters can strike with little warning, making preparedness essential for survival and recovery. Follow these key steps to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
Remember: Download a PDF of this Guide and keep it in your disaster preparation kit for ready reference.
1. Create an Emergency Plan
- Establish a communication plan with family or team members.
- Identify multiple evacuation routes and nearby emergency shelters.
- Assign roles and responsibilities to ensure an organized response.
- Keep a printed list of important emergency contacts (local authorities, hospitals, and family members).
2. Assemble an Emergency Kit
Stock essential supplies to sustain you and your family for at least three days:
- Food & Water: Non-perishable food, bottled water (1 gallon per person per day).
- Medical Supplies: First aid kit, necessary medications, and prescription copies.
- Safety & Tools: Flashlights, extra batteries, multipurpose tool, whistle.
- Personal Hygiene: Sanitary wipes, soap, toothbrush, and other hygiene items.
- Important Documents: Copies of identification, insurance, and emergency contacts in a waterproof container.
- For Special Needs: Baby supplies, pet essentials, or mobility aids as necessary.
3. Secure a Reliable Water Supply
Clean drinking water is critical during disasters. Prepare by:
- Using the Caylym Fontana: A reliable potable water system for emergencies.
- Storing Water: Keep additional bottled or purified water when space allows.
- Knowing Emergency Purification Methods:
- Boiling: Boil water for at least one minute to eliminate bacteria.
- Bleach Treatment: Add 8 drops of unscented household bleach per gallon of water, mix well, and let it stand for 30 minutes before drinking.
- Water Filters & Purification Tablets: Carry compact water purification tools for additional safety.
4. Prepare Your Home and Community
- Strengthen your home against potential hazards like floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes.
- Secure emergency shut-offs for gas, water, and electricity to prevent damage.
- Engage with your community by working with local organizations on disaster response plans.
- Have a backup power source, such as a generator or solar charger, for critical electronics.
5. Stay Informed and Ready to Act
- Monitor Alerts: Use reliable sources (FEMA, Red Cross, NOAA) for real-time updates.
- Practice Regular Drills: Conduct evacuation and safety drills with family and community members.
- Keep Digital & Hard Copies: Store important information in both paper and digital formats in case of power outages.
- Be Mentally Prepared: Stay calm, focused, and informed to make quick, effective decisions under pressure.
By following these steps and pre-positioning essential resources like the Caylym Fontana, families and communities can enhance their resilience and ability to respond effectively to natural disasters.
Guide Version 1.1