Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
CONTENTS
PAGE 2
Earthquake
PAGE 3
Fire
PAGE 4
Flooding
PAGE 6
Hurricane
PAGE 8
Thunderstorm
PAGE 9
Tsunami
PAGE 1 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
EARTHQUAKE
Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently, and without warning at any time of the day and
night. Stay as safe as possible during an earthquake. Be aware that some
earthquakes are actually foreshocks and a larger earthquake might occur. Minimize
your movements to a few steps to a nearby safe place and stay indoors until the
shaking has stopped.
What to do if you are indoors when shaking starts
1. Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside.
2. Drop to the floor, take cover by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of
furniture, or against an inside wall, and hold on.
3. If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow.
4. Do not use elevators.
5. If you use a wheelchair, lock the wheels and cover your head.
What to do if you are outdoors or in a moving vehicle
1. Move to the open if you can safely walk. Avoid power lines, buildings, trees, and
overpasses.
2. If you are driving, pull to the side of the road, stop and stay inside your vehicle.
Avoid stopping under overhead hazards.
3. If you are on the beach, move to higher ground. An earthquake can cause a
tsunami.
What to do if your are trapped under debris
1. Move as little as possible to keep dust down. Cover your nose and mouth with a
handkerchief or clothing.
2. Tap a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Shout only as a last resort.
What to do after an earthquake
1. Check people around you for injuries. Provide first aid. Do not move seriously
injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.
2. Check around for dangerous conditions such as fires, downed power, and structure
damage.
3. Turn off gas only if you smell gas
4. Check phone to be sure they are engaged on the hook
PAGE 2 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
FIRE
Make your home fire safe
1. Smoke detectors save lives. Install a battery-powered smoke detector outside each
sleeping area and on each additional level of your home. Use the test button to
check each smoke detector once a month. When necessary, replace batteries
immediately. Replace batteries at least once a year.
2. Have a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Get training from the fire department
in how to use it. Also include in the kit written instructions on how to turn off utilities
at your house.
3. Conduct periodic fire drills, so everyone remembers what to do when there is a fire.
Plan your escape routes
1. Determine at least two ways to escape from every room of your home. If you must
use an escape ladder, be sure everyone knows how to use it.
2. Select a location outside your home where everyone would meet after escaping.
3. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year. Once you are out, stay out!
Escape safely
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Remain calm and get out. Do not use elevators
Call 911 from a safe location.
If you see smoke in your first escape route, use your second way out.
If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to escape. Use a wet
cloth, if possible, to cover your nose and mouth.
If you are escaping through a closed door, Use the back of your hand to feel the
upper, lower, and middle parts of closed doors.. If it is hot, use your second way out.
If the door is not hot, brace yourself against it and open slowly.
If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door
closed. Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at the widow.
If there is a telephone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you
are.
If your clothes catch on fire, STOP where you are, DROP to the ground, and ROLL
over and over to smother the flames.
Never go back into a burning building.
PAGE 3 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
FLOODING
Floods are one of the most common hazards, but all floods are not alike. Some floods
develop slowly, but flash floods can develop in just a few minutes and without any
visible signs of rain.
The rule for being safe is simple: head for the high ground and stay away from the
water. Even a shallow depth of fast-moving flood water produces more force than most
people imagine. The most dangerous thing you can do is to try walking, swimming or
driving through such swift water.
What to do BEFORE a flood
1. Know the terms used to describe flooding.
 Floods can take several hours to days to develop
 A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area.
 A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in
your area.
 Flash floods can take only a few minutes to a few hours to develop
 A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.
 A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very
soon.
2. Know the flood risk to your home and area
 Know your area's flood risk - if unsure, call your local Red Cross chapter or your
local Civil Defense office.
 Learn the elevation level of your property. This will help you know how your
property will be affected when flood levels are forecasted.
 Identify dams near your home and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
 Learn your local official flood warning signals and what to do when you hear
them.
 Learn the safest route from your home or place of business to high, safe ground
should you have to evacuate in a hurry.
3. Make specific preparations for flooding
 Consider purchasing flood insurance. Flood losses are not covered under home
owner's insurance policies. Flood insurance is available in most communities
from the National Flood Insurance program; there is usually a five day waiting
period before it takes effect, so don't delay.
Flood insurance is available
whether the building is in or out of the identified flood prone area.
 Consider options for flood proofing your home. People who live in frequently
flooded areas should keep on hand materials such as sandbags, plywood, plastic
sheeting, and lumber which can be used to protect properties.
PAGE 4 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies




When a flood WATCH is issued
 Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
 Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
When a flood WARNING is issued
 Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice.
 If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.
When a flash flood WATCH is issued
 Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's
notice.
When a flash flood WARNING is issued
 Evacuate immediately; you may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!
Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains.
 Do not drive around barricades...they are there for your safety. If your car
stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher
ground.
What to do DURING a flood
1. If you’re caught in the house by sudden rising waters, move to the second floor or to
the roof, then wait for help.
2. If you have to leave your home, do not walk through moving water.
3. Do not try to drive over a flooded road. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately.
What to do AFTER a flood
1. Be aware that moving water only 6 inches deep could sweep you off your feet.
2. Be aware of areas where flood waters have receded. Weakened roads could
collapse under the weight of a car.
3. Check buildings for structural damage and danger of collapsing.
4. Flood waters may be contaminated: Clean and disinfect everything that got wet;
wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water; throw away food that has
come in contact with flood waters.
5. Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the power company. Flood
waters may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
6. Stay away from disaster areas unless authorities ask for volunteers.
7. Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to
drink.
8. If your policy covers flooding, contact your insurance agent. To prepare, separate
damaged and undamaged belongings. Videotape or photograph everything. Keep
detailed records of cleaning and replacement costs.
PAGE 5 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
HURRICANE
Hurricanes are powerful storms with torrential rains and destructive winds of 74 miles
per hour to 155 miles per hour, or greater, which blow in a counter-clockwise direction
around a center (eye). Heavy rains, flooding, and tornadoes add to the damage
hurricanes can inflict. Hurricane conditions can be monitored and you might have a day
or two to get ready. Hurricanes are classified into the five categories below, based on
their wind speeds, central pressure and damage potential:
 Category One - Winds 74 - 95 mph
 Category Two - Winds 96 - 110 mph
 Category Three - Winds 111 - 130 mph
 Category Four - Winds 131 - 155 mph
 Category Five - Winds 155 - and up
What to do BEFORE a hurricane
1. Know the terms used by weather forecasters:
 Hurricane Watch - A hurricane is possible within 36 hours. Stay tuned for
additional advisories.
 Hurricane Warning - A hurricane is expected within 24 hours. If advised to
evacuate, do so immediately.
2. Ask your local emergency management office about community evacuation plans
and whether your neighborhood would be told to evacuate.
3. Prepare to protect your property:
 Install hurricane shutters or pre-cut 3/4 inch marine plywood for each window of
your home.
 Install anchors for the plywood and pre-drill holes in the plywood so that you can
put it up quickly.
What to do DURING a hurricane
1. During a Watch:
 Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm
information.
 Prepare to bring indoors lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash
cans, hanging plants, and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
 Prepare to cover ALL windows of your home. If shutters have not been installed,
use pre-cut plywood as described above.
 Prepare to evacuate. Fill your car's gas tank and review evacuation routes.
 Recheck manufactured home tie-downs.
PAGE 6 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
2. During a Warning:
 Complete preparation activities.
 Listen to the advice of local officials, and leave if they tell you to do so. If you are
not advised to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows.
 Be aware, the calm eye is deceptive; the storm is not over. The worst part of the
storm will happen once the eye passes over and the winds blow from the
opposite direction. Objects damaged by the first winds can be broken or
destroyed by the second winds.
 Be alert for tornadoes. They can occur during and after a hurricane passes over.
 Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and
go another way. If waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and
climb to higher ground.
 Avoid using the phone except for serious emergencies. Local authorities need
first priority on telephone lines.
3. What to do during a hurricane:
 If you are directed by local authorities to evacuate, follow their instructions and
leave as soon as possible.
 Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
 If unable to evacuate, stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors;
Close all interior doors; Keep curtains and blinds closed; Take refuge in a small
interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level; Lie on the floor under a table
or another sturdy object.
What to do AFTER a hurricane
1. Keep listening to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for instructions.
 If you evacuated, return home when local officials tell you it is safe to do so.
 If you are in a safe location until local authorities say it is okay to leave.
2. Check for injuries and help those who need assistance.
3. Stay away from disaster areas unless local authorities request volunteers.
4. Use the telephone only for emergencies.
5. Drive only when necessary. The streets will be filled with debris.
6. Stay away from river banks and streams until potential flooding has passed. Report
downed power lines, broken gas, sewer or water mains.
7. Enter your home or any building with caution.
8. Inspect your home for damage. Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry.
Contact your insurance agent. To prepare, take photos of or videotape the damage;
separate damaged and undamaged belongings; locate your financial records; and
keep detailed records of cleanup costs.
PAGE 7 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
THUNDERSTORM
Thunderstorms are intense local storms averaging 20 miles across and reaching as
high as 10 miles. A thunderstorm is always accompanied by lightning, and they can
occur in all 50 states and all U.S. territories.
What to do BEFORE a thunderstorm
1. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or TV for the latest forecasts.
2. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind.
3. Listen for the sound of thunder. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to
the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately!
4. Pick a safe place in your home where family members can gather during a
thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or
glass doors.
5. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances; they can conduct electricity.
Unplug appliances. Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can
overload the compressor, resulting in a costly repair job!
What to do DURING a thunderstorm
1. Go to a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles, or metal objects that is not
subject to flooding.
2. If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees.
3. If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately!
4. If you are sheltering in a car, keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles.
5. Make yourself the smallest target possible. Squat low to the ground, with your
hands on your knees and your head between them. Do not lie flat on the ground this will make you a larger target!
What to do AFTER a thunderstorm
1. Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
2. Listen to the radio for information and instructions.
What to do if someone is struck by lightning
1. People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely. The
injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned, both where they
were struck and where the electricity left their body. Check for burns in both places.
2. Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has
stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR. Call for help.
PAGE 8 OF 10
Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
TSUNAMI
Tsunami (pronounced soo-na-mee), sometimes called a tidal wave, is actually a series
of enormous waves created by an underwater disturbance or earthquake. A tsunami
can move hundreds of miles per hour in the open ocean and smash into land with
waves more than 100 feet high.
All tsunamis are potentially dangerous, even though they may not damage every
coastline they strike. Some waves in the series are less hazardous than others. A local
earthquake may generate tsunami waves that can reach shore in minutes. If you are on
the beach or other low-lying area close to the ocean or bay, immediately evacuate by
walking to higher ground.
What to do BEFORE a tsunami
1. Know the terms used to describe a tsunami.
 Tsunami Advisory – An earthquake has occurred in the Pacific basin, which
might generate a tsunami.
 Tsunami Warning – A tsunami was, or may have been generated, which could
cause damage; therefore, people in the warned area are strongly advised to
evacuate.
 Tsunami Watch – A tsunami was or may have been generated, but is at least two
hours travel time to the area.
2. If you notice water receding from the shorelines, get away from the beach; move
inland to higher ground immediately.
3. If you feel an earthquake, turn your radio on to learn if there is a tsunami warning.
4. If officials issue a tsunami warning, and order evacuations, leave immediately.
5. Stay away from the area until local authorities say it is safe. Do not be fooled into
thinking that the danger is over when a single wave has come and gone. A tsunami
is not a single wave, but a series of waves.
6. Do not go to the shoreline to watch for a tsunami. When you can see the wave, it is
too late to escape it.
What to do AFTER a tsunami
1. Stay away from flooded and damaged areas until officials say it is safe to return.
2. Stay away from debris in the water.
3. Help neighbors who may require special assistance.
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Quick Guide to
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
5. Types of Disasters and Emergencies
END
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