SOMETIMES BEING PREPARED MAKES MODERN-DAY HASSLES OR MINOR EMERGENCIES MUCH MORE BEARABLE AND SATISFYING TO OVERCOME.

One time some friends and I were driving over the Sierra-Nevada Mountains for a weekend getaway. We rounded a bend and suddenly found ourselves at the tail end of an extreme miles-long traffic jam. Vehicles were just sitting on the freeway in front of us, unable to move due to a combination of winter weather and a huge multi-vehicle pile-up somewhere up ahead. We were in an area with no highway advisory signs or department of transportation AM radio traffic information, or any kind of FM radio signal for that matter. Fortunately, I have two-way radio equipment installed in my 4×4 SUV, so I was able to talk to other HAM radio operators and monitor the Highway Patrol frequencies and find out just how bad the situation was. With this information, we were able to calculate an alternative route, squeeze off the freeway, all while others were stuck for 12 hours or more.

Most emergencies you’ll face in life won’t be large-scale disasters, but that doesn’t mean they’re not serious. This section will give you tools and strategies to deal with crises involving your home, your family, your pets, and other aspects of everyday life from being stuck in an elevator to foiling pickpockets to facing down aggressive dogs to coping with traffic accidents. Want to ensure your family’s safety? Learn how to make an emergency plan, cope with intruders and prevent house fires. Interested in gear? Figure out what kind of everyday carry (EDC) kit you need and the type of communications gear you want to invest in. Worried about your children? Read about how to handle missing kids, childproof your home, and help kids prepare in various age-appropriate ways for disasters.

123 GRAB YOUR GO BAG

A go bag is a collection of items that you would need to survive if you had to flee your home with no guarantee of shelter, food, or water during an emergency. Think of it as your survival insurance policy. There may not be one universally agreed-upon set of equipment but, with a good core set of items, you can put together a go bag suited for a wide variety of situations.

It’s best to use a backpack so that you can easily carry your gear. Fill it up with the minimum following things, with items sealed in zip-top bags to keep them organized and prevent them getting wet.

• Shelter items like a small tent and sleeping bag (if you want to go ultraminimalist, pack a tarp and a space blanket)

• Drinking water and purification equipment

• High-calorie, no-cook foods such as protein bars, peanut butter, trail mix, etc.

• First-aid, sanitation, and hygiene supplies

• Several fire-starting options

• A small pot for boiling water or cooking

• Basic tools such as a knife, duct tape, and paracord

• Extra clothes appropriate for all seasons

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Cash and a spare debit card

• A thumb drive with a backup of important documents: bank info, insurance documents, wills, and personal items such as family photos or videos

Stash your main go bag safe and ready to go in a secure location, with smaller versions in your car and office. It’s also a good idea for you to have everyday carry (EDC) items—survival essentials that you can carry in your pocket or purse.

HOME GO BAG

Emergency rations (MREs, food bars, etc) • Bottled water • Tent & tarp • Sleeping bag • Space blanket • Change of rugged clothes • Flashlight & extra batteries • Pocket knife • Can opener • Heavy cord • Battery- or crank-operated weather and AM/FM radio • First aid kit • Sanitation kit • Medications & extra eyeglasses, hearing aid batteries, etc. • Whistle • Change of shoes & socks • Duct tape • Razor blades • Water filter • Water purification tablets • Solar charger • Battery pack • Crow bar • Utility shutoff tool • Fishing kit • Folding shovel • Reflective traffic vest • Lantern • Work gloves • Lighter or fire-starting kit

CAR GO BAG

Emergency rations (MREs, food bars, etc.) • Bottled water • Tent & tarp • Space blanket • Change of rugged clothes • Flashlight & extra batteries • Pocket knife • Can opener • Heavy cord • First-aid kit • Whistle • Change of shoes & socks • Duct tape • Razor blades • Water filter • Water purification tablets • Fishing kit • Folding shovel • Snow chains & a bag of sand • Jumper cables, flares, tow strap • Reflective traffic vest • Work gloves • Lighter or fire-starting kit

OFFICE GO BAG

Emergency rations (MREs, food bars, etc.) • Bottled water • Space blanket • Flashlight & extra batteries • Whistle • Change of shoes & socks • Reflective traffic vest

COMPACT EDC GO BAG

Flashlight & extra batteries • Pocket knife • Whistle • Battery pack • Lighter or fire-starting kit

124 KEEP IT IN YOUR POCKET

If you commute via public transit, are in school, or work in an environment where you don’t have space to store a larger personal emergency kit, you may be limited to a pocket-based EDC kit. These highly compact kits are reasonably portable and designed to be carried on your person. If you assemble one yourself and it’s so bulky that you don’t like carrying it, revisit its contents and eliminate anything that’s not absolutely necessary. The point of a pocket-based kit is to keep it in one; if it’s not there, you won’t have it handy should an emergency strike. On the other hand, if you consistently carry a purse, messenger bag, or backpack, you can add more items to your EDC kit—just don’t make it so big that it becomes a nuisance to carry.

125 ASSEMBLE AN EDC

Everyday carry (EDC) refers to a small collection of tools, equipment, and supplies that are with you at all times to handle a variety of everyday and emergency situations. The list below represents a wide range of things you might carry. Tailor it to what’s reasonable for your pockets, purse, briefcase, or school bag. Just remember, the more the better (within reason). You never know what item you might really need in a crisis.

TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT Useful for signaling and utility along with personal protection, a bright, durable, self defense–style flashlight is an essential part of your EDC gear.

MULTITOOL These come in several sizes, often with a knife. So, if you feel that carrying a separate knife is excessive, you still have a cutting tool.

POCKETKNIFE Even if you prefer not to carry a knife for self defense, there are a multitude of other reasons to have one, such as cooking, first aid, rescue, carving, and gear repair or adjustments.

WHISTLE Whistles can be used to call for help, warn anyone in earshot, and communicate with members of your group. Most are small and can be attached to a key ring.

BATTERY PACK Compact external batteries are small, usually a little longer than a tube of lipstick, and can carry enough power to give your phone a full charge. Add a short charging cable and you’re set.

MARKER A permanent marker is an everyday object that you probably don’t think about until you need one. These are water resistant and able to write on just about any surface. Find one with a clip that attaches easily to a key ring.

PARACORD Wristbands are one way to store and carry an emergency length of cord, but there are many others, such as a key chain fob or even shoelaces.

SMARTPHONE You’re likely already carrying your phone everywhere. If not, you should consider doing so. It’s a digital multitool that lets you call in emergencies, use apps, navigate, and access important files stored in the cloud.

SUNGLASSES Even when the weather is cloudy, consider carrying a decent pair of sunglasses with you. They can be worn as improvised safety glasses, and are useful when you need to rest but it’s too bright to do so.

LIGHTER Even if you’re not a smoker, a handy source of fire is useful in disaster situations when utilities are no longer functional, or for wilderness survival.

BANDANA This simple square of fabric can be employed as a tourniquet, a sling, a dust mask, and so much more.

STORAGE Consider placing your EDC kit into a small sturdy container for easy storage and organization. Also, include a compact stuff bag or folding pouch to add carrying capacity when it’s needed; they can also be used for groceries and other everyday uses.

KEY RING STASH These small metal containers are perfect for storing extra emergency cash or a few doses of critical medication.

MINI FLASHLIGHT A tiny backup light is important in case your primary flashlight dies, or if you just need a little light. These utility lights can run for up to 15 hours.

126 RIDE IT OUT AT HOME

If you’re at home during an emergency or disaster, you’re already one step ahead. After all, for those people at work or school, traveling or commuting, their number one concern is how to get home. You’re already there. And that cliché about your home being your castle? In this event, it’s your haven and your fortress, stocked with far more supplies than you’d have in your office or car kits. Of course, you’ll also need to keep that castle safe and functional. Here is a checklist of important things to do after an emergency or disaster.

STEP 1 Examine your home. Is it damaged? How badly? Is it safe to be inside it? If you’re not sure, then retreat outside and be prepared to set up camp in your yard until it’s safe to go back in.

STEP 2 Shut off your utilities if you detect any damage, leaks, or smells.

STEP 3 Secure your pets.

STEP 4 Establish a reserve of water if your pipes still work. Fill your tub and as many water containers as you can in case the water gets cut off or rationed.

STEP 5 If you have lost power, set up your backup power supply or solar panels if they are in storage. If the power is still on, start charging all of your devices so that you’ll be able to communicate if the power does go down.

STEP 6 Check if your landline phone and Internet access still work.

STEP 7 Turn on your radio or television to learn more about developments. Check the Internet for news and alerts for your area.

STEP 8 Contact family members and housemates to update them on the status of your home and family.

127 AVOID A RIOT

School campuses have become a regular focal point for protests, rallies, and, occasionally, riots. Regardless of whether any given protest is a peaceful political event, a disruptive strike, or an angry mob, it’s smart to follow these guidelines to ensure your safety.

STEP 1 Stay indoors, away from windows and doorways.

STEP 2 Ask a teacher or staff member what to do, as there may already be an established school emergency action plan for such events.

STEP 3 Monitor social media such as Twitter and news apps for information about the protest.

STEP 4 Consider various exit routes from the building and different ways you can safely get home. Come up with at least three options.

STEP 5 If rioters start a fire nearby, or if the building you’re in appears to be a focal point of the protest, it’s time to leave. If possible, join up with a few people and calmly exit the building as a group, as far away from the center of the protest as possible.

STEP 6 Walk, don’t run. Running attracts attention, and you might just be mistaken for a troublemaker by police. Hold hands or link elbows with your group to avoid getting separated. If you’re caught up in the main body of the crowd, move with the crowd until you can escape onto a side street, or into a safe building.

STEP 7 Avoid public transportation routes that will move through or near the action, as you may end up getting trapped.

STEP 8 Do not approach police lines. You’re unlikely to get through, and the risk for injury is greatest near the line between protesters and police.

128 BE SCHOOL SAFE

One of the key considerations during an emergency at school is to memorize multiple exit routes, as well as several alternative ways to get home, should your usual route be unavailable. If it’s not safe to leave the campus, knowing where safe shelter is can be equally important. Authorities should be able to assist, but you should know what to do if they can’t.

A bag-based EDC is a natural choice for students. Note that schools often have strict weapons policies, so be sure to check your school’s policies to avoid any problems if, say, your flashlight or pen knife are considered a threat.

LIFE SAFETY APP

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is an easy way to communicate with your friends and family in the aftermath of a disaster or an accident. Plenty of people use social media every day, making it a logical go-to tool. Posting once is much faster and easier than texting or e-mailing everyone who might be concerned for your well-being. Even if you’re not a current user, you should still consider signing up for one of these services to easily reach out when the time comes.

SUGGESTED APPS

• Twitter

• Facebook

• Facebook Messenger

129 ANTICIPATE EMERGENCIES AT WORK

Many workplaces have some sort of emergency plan; the best prepared also take the time to rehearse them. Unfortunately, often a company has no process, or it’s not well communicated. Once you know, you can either help to organize a plan, or at least know what you’ll need to do personally to be prepared.

If you have your own office (or desk or other personal space), storing an emergency kit is easy. Otherwise, you’ll likely be limited to just a pocket- or bag-based EDC kit. Based on how prepared your workplace is and what your own resources there will guide you as to what you can and should store as part of your office kit.

Next, you’ll need to think about getting home. Plan out alternative routes and means for getting home before a disaster happens.

130 SURVIVE BEING STUCK IN AN ELEVATOR

Getting stuck in an elevator sounds scary, but typically the people in this situation are rescued within a few hours, so you’ll likely be fine. Here are some steps to take if you are unlucky enough to feel the sudden lurch of an elevator stopping unexpectedly.

STEP 1 Use a cell phone or flashlight as a light source if the lights are out.

STEP 2 Try pressing each button on the panel; doing so may trigger normal operation again.

STEP 3 Try the emergency call button or use the emergency handset to call for assistance. Someone else in the building may also report the elevator as broken, and the elevator technician will be able to restore normal operation.

STEP 4 Check to see if your cellphone has service. If your signal is weak, try texting instead of calling; you’re more likely to get a message through that way.

STEP 5 Try using a shoe to pound on the elevator door, or use a key or other metal object to create a sharp tapping sound, if you’re worried no one knows you’re in there.

STEP 6 Whether or not help is on the way, relax and get to know anyone who is sharing the elevator with you. If you keep gum, lozenges, or a food bar in your EDC kit you can help stave off hunger if you have to wait many hours before being released.

STEP 7 Don’t try to pry open the doors or attempt to escape through the ceiling hatch. Elevator doors have a fail-safe locking mechanism, and in the elevator shaft you risk electrocution, being crushed, or falling. Wait to take any specific action until prompted by professional rescuers.

131 HAVE A COMMUTE BACKUP PLAN

If you’re driving somewhere when a disaster strikes, one of your first actions should be to fill up your gas tank. After all, if the emergency goes on for some time, gas supplies may be limited or rationed. If the disaster occurs while you’re on your way to work, you’ll need to decide whether it makes more sense to return home or continue on to work. The best choice is probably to return home—you have more resources there and, of course, you’ll want to be sure your home and family are safe.

Don’t be foolish. If it’s clear from listening to the radio or checking the Internet that returning home might put you in danger, head to the next safest place—which is likely your work. If you have a long or complex commute, pause for a moment to review your regular route and determine if there are any other safe places you could go to in the event of an emergency, such as another family member’s home.

If you commute via public transit, and thus don’t have a car emergency kit available, it might make sense to consider heading to your work to grab your office kit, if you think you might not be able to get home for a while.

132 BE READY FOR TRAVEL TROUBLES

Depending on your style of travel, you will find yourself limited to a small bag-or pocket-based EDC kit. Regardless of which one is best for you, be sure to check before you travel that the state or country that you’re visiting allows all of the items you might carry in your kit.

If an emergency occurs while traveling abroad, one of the most important things that you need to know is the location of the nearest airport as well as the address and phone number for the local consulate or embassy for your home country. In extreme natural disasters, the embassy may be the only way for you to exit the country safely. In less catastrophic incidents, you should be able to simply leave through the closest airport. Consider carrying an emergency backup credit card that you can use to buy full-price tickets if you need to leave the country on short notice.

133 GET A NEW PASSPORT

If you’re traveling for a long time or going through a high-risk area, an emergency replacement passport kit can save a lot of frustration.

Your kit should have a paper photocopy of your passport and visas, along with three passport photos. Include an alternative photo ID, such as a driver’s license, and proof of citizenship, such as a copy of your birth certificate, social security card, or certificate of naturalization. If your passport is stolen, you may need to file a police report prior to applying for a replacement passport. Upload pictures of your passport and visas into a cloud storage service—along with a police report if at all possible—so you can retrieve your files from any computer or smartphone. Finally, be sure to store the kit separately from your passport. You don’t want to lose it, too.

134 SPOT A PICKPOCKET

Whether traveling abroad or commuting via public transit, you are pretty much always at some risk of being pick pocketed. High-risk areas can include major tourism sites, museums, restaurants, cafés, bars, parks, and the beach. The risk increases abroad; as a tourist, professional pickpockets see you as an easy mark, since you’re more likely to be carrying valuables such as cash or cameras.

The first step to successful pickpocketing is finding a reason to get very close to you; if you suddenly feel like someone is uncomfortably close, raise your guard and get out of there. Engaging them creates an opportunity for them to victimize you. Trust your instincts and use your situational awareness to avoid this situation as much as possible. Common pickpocket tactics include the following.

• “Accidentally” bumping into you or jostling you on the street

• Standing too close to you on public transit or crowding up against you while both of you are passing through a turnstile

• Asking for directions while holding a large map close to you (to hide an accomplice from your field of view)

• Asking for the time, or for a light for a cigarette

• Trying to sell you something

• Spilling something on you and then offering to clean it off

• Dropping groceries, coins, or other items in front of you

• A crowd of young children suddenly surrounding you and demanding your attention

• An overly friendly and attractive woman who appears to be drunk

• An overly helpful stranger offering to take you where you need to go

135 AVOID BEING A VICTIM

Don’t just check for where your valuables are with a pat; put your hand in your pocket with your wallet and keep it there. If you’re carrying a purse, sling it over your shoulder and tightly clamp down on it with your arm. Sling bags that keep your belongings toward your front are great.

While you’re traveling, carry belongings in bags and wallets that have slash-resistant mesh, and use cables or chains to attach to fixed objects or your person. Store your passport, credit cards, and the majority of your money inside a hidden pouch such as a money belt. Don’t carry bags on your back or wallets in your back pocket. If you carry a bag with many zippers, use small locks or screw-gate carabiners to make the bag harder to open.

136 USE A DECOY WALLET

To foil pickpockets, carry a decoy wallet or purse with a little bit of money and a few random items inside so it seems legit. Put it inside an obvious pocket or carry it conspicuously so that it will be taken rather than your real wallet or purse. Don’t put in any fake money or anything that will obviously tip off the thief that their prize was a decoy, or they may come back in anger to find your real valuables, to hurt you, or both.

137 PACK LIFEBOAT RATIONS

If you’re stranded in your car somewhere you can’t call or walk out, your car effectively becomes a lifeboat until help arrives. This is where your car disaster kit plays a major role in keeping you alive until help arrives. Two items key to your survival will be your food stash and your water supply. However, your car is likely to experience temperature extremes, especially since your trunk (the likely storage space) isn’t climate controlled. Extremes of temperature can significantly reduce shelf life.

You need to create a kit that can be stored for years in your car without having to worry that your food or water has gone bad. Lifeboat rations are a good, rarely-thought-of option. These are designed for storage in harsh conditions and have a shelf life of about five years. While you may want to also keep other food and water to supplement the rations, having these as the minimum ensures you have enough food and water to hold out for a few days.

138 GET THE RIGHT RATIONS

There are some general considerations to keep in mind when you’re shopping for that easy-to-store food stash. You’ll want your rations to be compact in size for easy storage, and have a long shelf life (about five years is typical). They also have to be durable and in sturdy packaging such as sealed heavy plastic or foil containers.

The rations should be divided into easy-to-grasp portions. For food, rations are usually kept in 3,600-calorie packages, subdivided into portions of 200 to 400 calories. Water usually comes in individual ration pouches of about 4 ounces each.

Rations also should be designed for conditions where the water supply is limited. This means water should be included for drinking, and the foodstuffs should all be ready to eat, not requiring any preparation or cooking.

139 ADD PROTEIN

Lifeboat rations are designed to keep you alive in conditions where you have a limited water supply and don’t need to exert yourself. This is perfect if you’re stranded with your car but isn’t as useful if your goal is to hike out. So if you’re fit, inclined to leave your car to find help, and have a backpack-based kit in your car for easy carrying, be sure to add more proteins to your car kit in the form of jerky, canned fish, or protein bars. The downside, of course, is that the shelf life of such items is much more limited and will require regular inspections to make sure the food is still safe.

140 SIGNAL FOR HELP

No matter how you decide to try and attract attention, when it comes to signaling, your best bet is to get to out the largest clearing at the highest elevation that you can easily reach. If you’re stranded with your vehicle and using it as a lifeboat, then you’ll want to find a location that’s reasonably close so that search parties can match your signal with your location. There are a few different ways to do this.

BUILD A FIRE It’s likely that the easiest and most commonly thought of way to signal is with fire. You can build your own signal fire in a large clearing ahead of time, and then wait until you are certain someone is within sight of the smoke, which is the most visible part of the fire. Light a hot blaze, and then cover it up with plenty of greenery. If there’s a lone dead tree standing in that clearing, sacrifice it to create a torch visible for miles.

LIGHT A FLARE Pen flares—part of a pilot’s survival vest—will fire a small signal flare several hundred feet into the air. Larger flares or flare guns can achieve even greater heights with a more visible signal. You should treat these as essential emergency supplies, but be very careful in dry areas, as you might inadvertently ignite a grass or forest fire that may well further endanger you.

USE A MIRROR Reflective materials are some of the easiest survival tools to carry and use. If you have a mirror designed specifically for signaling to aircraft, follow the directions printed on its back. For a regular mirror, or other reflective material, hold it at an angle that allows you to see the light reflected on the ground, then slowly bring it up to eye level and aim at your target. For best results, try tilting or rotating it slightly, which will flash to a search party.

GO HIGH TECH Radio and GPS technology can mean the difference between life and death when stranded. Consider investing in a GPS signaling device that can transmit your location as well as send text messages. These aren’t cheap, and frequently require a subscription, but they can really pay off. A satellite phone or two-way radio can also call for help on emergency frequencies; it also has the added benefit of being useful for camping and other outdoor activities.

141 IDENTIFY DISASTER RISKS AND NEEDS

Before you can write a plan you need to know what you’re planning for. These guidelines give you a good foundation for your emergency preparedness.

STEP 1 Identify the various types of natural disasters that are possible in your area as well as potential man-made risks. For example, are you near a freeway, rail line, port, factory, or industrial facility? These can all be a source of hazardous materials incidents. Consider how you might have to prepare for each type of disaster that might happen.

STEP 2 Learn about the available public warning systems in your area. Are sirens used? If so, learn what the different signals mean during an emergency. Some cities or counties require signing up for any text, e-mail, or smartphone app notifications of disasters, while others will automatically call your landline phone.

STEP 3 Do you have pets? If so, learn what local resources are available to help you out in an emergency. For example, many shelters don’t allow pets, so you may have to create a separate plan for caring for your animals.

STEP 4 If you have children, ask school administrators about their disaster plans so you know what you can expect. For elderly or disabled people, check with their health care providers for assistance in planning.

142 PREPARE FOR A ZOMBIE ATTACK

You might have seen news stories a few years ago about how the United States government was preparing for the zombie apocalypse. Much as that sounds like a typical crazy conspiracy theory (or the plot of a late-night movie), in this case it’s actually true … sort of.

What actually happened is that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of America’s prime sources for helpful disaster preparedness information and resources, came up with a website, a comic book, and a full publicity campaign to get kids (and zombie-loving hipsters) excited about understanding emergency preparedness.

Since it’s important to involve everyone in yours household in the disaster-planning process in order for your efforts to be successful, why not try engaging teens and tweens (and zombie-loving adults) by using these free downloadable materials? The materials cover such essentials as putting together a first-aid kit, ensuring sanitary conditions, stocking up on safe food and water—all the stuff we’re discussing in this book, except with the added bonus of the undead. And if the zombies do rise up? Bonus, you’re that much more prepared!

143 DEVELOP A PLAN

Once you’ve assessed the likelihood of various disasters in your area and taken a good look at your household’s needs, you’re ready to start developing a detailed disaster plan.

First, meet with your household and discuss the need to prepare for disaster. If you have younger children, you’ll want to explain dangers to them in an age-appropriate way. Plan how the group can best share responsibilities and work together as a team.

Be sure your plan is succinct. Create an outline, not a novel, with just enough detail to be practical. Plans with too much detail can be burdensome during a disaster. Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen, local warning systems, and any expected challenges with infants, pets, and elderly or disabled members of your household. Explore what to do in each situation. Everyone should know and have access to the plan. Consider e-mailing a copy to all members of the household or using cloud storage for easy access on any computer or device.

Determine at least two home escape routes, and agree upon a meeting point away from the home in case of a local emergency, like a fire. Consider some evacuation routes outside the area in case of a more significant incident.

In case family members are separated at the time of an incident, include a section of the plan for how to reunite. Separation is a real possibility when adults are at work and children are at school.

Develop an emergency communication plan. Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to be your “family contact” someone who can coordinate communication in case other communication means fail. If unable to reach one another, family members should call the contact and tell them where they are and how they are doing. Include the contact’s name, address, e-mail, and phone number in your plan.

144 CHECK OUT YOUR PLAN

Part of the planning process includes a few universal steps that all households can take, including the items on this checklist.

Post a list of direct-dial emergency telephone numbers (ambulance, fire, police, and so on) by landline phones and load them into the address book of your mobile phones.

Make sure that everyone in your household knows how to turn off the various utility mains—electricity, gas, and water.

Thoroughly check your home for any potential hazards.

Do an inventory of your pantry. Stock emergency food and water.

Assemble a disaster kit for your home and go bags for all members of the household.

Consider establishing safe rooms for disasters that might affect your home.

Make some copies of all important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, deeds, titles, wills, and trusts. Keep one copy in a home fire safe and put another copy in a safety deposit box or with a trusted relative who lives outside the area. Consider scanning the files and storing them in the cloud or on a flash drive.

Evaluate your insurance to see what disaster types are covered or excluded. Get coverage for those you reasonably anticipate in your area. Document all valuables, including serial number, make, and model in case you need to file a claim after a disaster. Consider adding copies of any related original receipts to your archive.

LIFE SAFETY APP

KIDS’ SAFETY

One way to engage children is via a free smartphone app created by the Red Cross and Disney. Monster Guard teaches kids ages 7–11 how to prepare for various real-life emergencies at home—and other environments—using a fun and engaging game. There is a range of apps, games, and programs for kids of various ages. If you’re an educator or want to teach a group, you can also explore the Red Cross Masters of Disaster curriculum.

SUGGESTED APP

• Monster Guard:
Prepare for Emergencies

145 KEEP IN CONTACT

It’s important that everyone in your household knows the plan for getting in touch with everyone else after a disaster. Even if you’ve loaded all the information into your mobile phones, consider also keeping a paper copy in case your phone is dead when you need the information.

Include the contact information for each member of your household; make sure that it lists their full name, relation to the family, work and/or school address and phone number, mobile phone number, their e-mail address, and any other contact info that might be relevant.

Don’t forget to include important information, such as date of birth, medical insurance policy, blood type, allergies, or medical conditions. Also add names and contact information for any designated out-of-town family contacts.

List muster or evacuation points from your family plan. Review and update the information in the plan annually. Additionally, ensure all members of your household have ICE entries (see item 147).

146 COMMUNICATE IN A DISASTER

During a regional emergency or disaster, mobile phone systems quickly become overloaded with voice calls. If you cannot get through, try text messaging instead, as that has a much higher chance of getting through during those circumstances.

If you want to communicate to everyone easily with a single step, consider posting to Twitter, Facebook, or other social media with your status. Alternatively, the Red Cross offers a free “Safe and Well” online listing service. Just be sure to plan with other members of your household which of these systems you’ll use should you not be reachable by phone.

147 BE AWARE OF ICE

“In case of emergency,” or ICE, is a concept that came about in 2005 when it became apparent that mobile phones were ubiquitous and were a great way to inform doctors and emergency responders whom to contact in a crisis, simply by programming extra address book entries into their cell phone, such as “ICE, dad” or “ICE, wife.”

These days, assuming that you are carrying a smartphone, it’s a little more complicated since your screen is probably locked. However, both Android and iOS phones are able to show a list of designated emergency contacts from the lock screen.

Other options include putting a sticker on the back of your phone or ID with a list of your ICE contacts, or printing out an ICE card that you can put in your wallet, purse, or glove compartment (see item 148, below).

148 CARRY A CARD

Many insurance companies and automobile associations offer free versions of an ICE card that you can download and carry in your wallet or glove box, to make things easier for first responders, and for you and your loved ones in case of an emergency.

149 MITIGATE HOME DISASTER

Use this easy reference guide to check off the various things you can do to reduce the risk or severity of the problems you’re likely to encounter in the event of the most common natural disasters.

DISASTER

BASIC SAFETY

EARTHQUAKE

FLOODING

HIGH WINDS

FIRE

FREEZING

Keep chimneys clean, and install spark arresters.

Use truss bracing to guard against damage in high winds.

Have folding escape ladders.

Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Check caulking and weather-stripping.

Keep stairs and hallways uncluttered.

Be sure circuits near sinks are properly grounded with GFI outlets.

Install storm shutters, or have boards for windows and sliding doors.

Have multiple fire extinguishers.

Get a burglar alarm.

Install motion sensor lights.

Store plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal up the house if you need to shelter in place.

Clear heavy vegetation that could be a fire hazard or provide cover for intruders.

Raise heating and cooling units above the average floodline.

Don't hide your key outside.

Install sump pump in basement.

Strap the water heater to a wall.

Make sure gas lines are in good shape.

Know where shut-off valves are; attach a wrench to the pipeline so it’s there when you need it.

If your area is prone to heavy freezes, insulate external pipes.

Make your house number easily visible and lit for emergency vehicles to easily spot.

150 KEEP IT TOGETHER

If you keep your camping gear down in the basement, your disaster supplies in a closet, and your tools in your garage, you’re not unusual—but you’re also at a disadvantage in an emergency. Instead, store your tools and camping gear with your disaster supplies. You can easily grab items as you need them for, say, a camping trip or DIY project, but you won’t have to scramble for essentials in an emergency, especially difficult if your home is partially destroyed or inaccessible. Consider buying some large sturdy plastic storage tubs, keep everything labeled and organized, and don’t forget to return anything you “borrow” from your stash. If you should need to evacuate quickly, you can just grab the tubs and go.

151 FUEL UP

In any emergency, you’ll want to be sure your car is gassed up and ready to go. Get in the habit of filling your tank as soon as it drops below half a tank, especially if you’re anticipating storms or other severe weather that might knock out power to the area. Without electricity, gas pumps won’t work, and once the power comes back on, there’s likely to be a run on the stations as everyone rushes to refuel.

For additional security, or if you fear that power might be down for a significant period, you might want to store extra fuel at home (for your cars, a generator, or maybe a chain saw). If you choose to do this, it’s important to store the fuel safely, as not only is it highly flammable, but the fumes can be dangerous. Always store gas in approved airtight containers that do not vent, and store all those containers in a grounded double-walled steel flammable safety cabinet.

152 KEEP A 72-HOUR SUPPLY

In a serious disaster, local emergency resources will likely be overloaded. Supplies from regional disaster caches, the Red Cross, and out-of-state agencies will take at least 72 hours and maybe longer to arrive in the affected area. So, when planning a 72-hour disaster kit, consider it the minimum you should have on hand. If you live in a disaster-prone area, such as flood plains, tornado alley, or near an earthquake fault, consider keeping enough supplies for a week or more, depending on your ability to easily store and manage a larger cache.

153 CONSIDER EMERGENCY ALTERNATIVES

A dedicated food cache will ensure you have enough to survive longer term. Include a variety of foods, including those that do not require cooking, water, or special preparation. Incorporate some comfort foods and treats that have a long shelf life, such as hard candy, to add variety. Ensure that you’ve accounted for anyone in your household with dietary restrictions.

Store everything in a cool, dry place. Keep boxed foods in airtight plastic or metal containers to protect it from pests and to extend its shelf life. Write the date each item was placed into storage on its packaging to easily determine how long it’s been stored. At a minimum, review all supplies annually. Consider reviewing your food supplies every six months, when you’re rotating your water supply. Throw out any canned goods that become swollen, dented, rusted, or corroded.

154 STOCK THE RIGHT SUPPLIES

Emergency supplies should be nonperishable and able to keep for years. Here are the most common options to consider.

FOOD SOURCE

FREEZE DRIED

ADVANTAGE: Very long shelf life

DISADVANTAGE: Require water to prepare

NOTES: Generally considered the best option for taste

CANNED

ADVANTAGE: Inexpensive

DISADVANTAGE: Bulky

NOTES: Problematic in freezing conditions or high humidity (danger of rust)

MRE

ADVANTAGE: Packaged for convenience

DISADVANTAGE: Expensive

NOTES: Taste can be monotonous

DRY GOODS (wheat, rice, corn, sugar, pinto beans, oats, pasta, potato flakes, nonfat powdered milk)

ADVANTAGE: Very long shelf life

DISADVANTAGE: Require preparation for storage and usually need other ingredients to cook

NOTES: Not generally appropriate for shorter-term emergencies

FOOD BARS/JERKY

ADVANTAGE: Portable, easy to eat

DISADVANTAGE: Shorter shelf life

NOTES: Not a satisfying substitute for a meal

155 HOLD YOUR WATER

Depending on the situation, tap water may not be available or may not be safe to drink. Therefore you need to have a back-up supply. There are three basic ways to store your water, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best disaster kits will rely on a combination of these various resources; regardless of which type of containers you use, always store your water in a cool, dark place. You may also end up needing to rely on secondary sources of water, such as your water heater or collecting rainwater.

WATER SOURCE

EMERGENCY WATER RATIONS

ADVANTAGE: Long shelf life

DISADVANTAGE: Expensive

STORE-BOUGHT WATER JUGS

ADVANTAGE: Easy to manage

DISADVANTAGE: Short shelf life

REUSABLE FOOD-GRADE WATER JUGS

ADVANTAGE: Uses tap water

DISADVANTAGE: Container must be cleaned and sterilized

156 KEEP CAFFEINE ON HAND

Caffeine can be a vital supplement to your disaster kit, particularly when access to water, a stove, and the time to prepare coffee or tea are not an option. Luckily there are alternatives for a pick-me-up: caffeinated gum and caffeine pills. Neither requires preparation, and they’re both compact and easily carried in your go bag, but gum has the added advantage of helping suppress hunger a bit, which may be useful if you’re trying to conserve food supplies.

157 TEST YOUR KIT

The only way to know for sure if all your supplies will actually last 72 hours is to do a test. This is best done on a long weekend right before rotating supplies that will expire shortly. It’s important that everyone in the household understands the need to avoid “cheating” by buying outside food or eating out, as that will likely lead to a false idea of how long your supplies will last. Another reason to test out your supplies? Kids who are stressed or traumatized after a disaster may refuse to eat strange foods, and this gives them a chance to taste everything under normal conditions.

STEP 1 Gather your household and discuss the test, so that everyone can be involved.

STEP 2 Secretly pick a date several months away for the test to happen.

STEP 3 On that date, declare that an “emergency” has happened, and that whatever food and water is in the house is what you have to survive on for 72 hours.

STEP 4 See how long your household can last on your disaster supplies and the available food in your fridge, freezer, and pantry.

STEP 5 Restock disaster supplies and perishable foods.

STEP 6 Enjoy a nice meal out to celebrate.

158 STOCK FOOD AND WATER

Even if you’re really well prepared, you may end up utilizing tips from the “improvised” set of suggestions as a way of extending your water and food supply in the event of a longer-lasting disaster.

PREPARED

WATER

• Emergency water rations in disaster supplies (5-year shelf life).

• 7-gallon (26.5 liter) potable water jugs (rotated every 6 months and sanitized between uses)

• Filled reusable water bottles in go bags (rotated every 6 months and sanitized between uses)

• Extra cases of coconut water or sports drinks (rotated every year or per expiration date)

FOOD

• Military style MREs in disaster supplies (3- to 5-year shelf life)

• Freeze-dried (10- to 20-year shelf life) and canned goods (1- to 2-year shelf life) stored securely

• Food bars and dried meats (rotated annually or according to expiration date)

• Emergency rations in go bags (rotated annually)

If you haven’t been able to put together a proper set of food and water supplies for a disaster, or are in a situation where you can’t get to the stocks you have, you can still improvise. Here are some suggestions.

IMPROVISED

FOOD

• Whatever food you have in your fridge and pantry, carefully rationed until help arrives

• Whatever food is available for purchase at stores that might still be open

• Whatever fruits and vegetables might be ripe in your garden

WATER

• Melted ice from freezers

• From the water heater

• From filling bathtub after the disaster (if there is any water pressure available)

• From rain or snow (to purify see item 241)

159 GET READY FOR LIGHTS OUT

Blackouts are common in both summer and winter. In some areas of the country, the middle to end of summer is known as “blackout season,” as climate-control demands on the power supply tend to overload providers. In the peak of the winter season, ice and storms can bring down power lines. And year-round, blackouts can also be caused by lightning strikes, solar flares, substation failures, or fires. No matter what the cause, there are things you can do when this inevitably happens in your hood.

First, turn off anything that was on when the blackout began, to avoid taxing the electrical grid when power comes back. Leave one light or radio on so you’ll know right away when the power is restored. Use an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for any computers or critical electronics; this will power your devices even when the power is off and protect against power surges. Use surge protectors (not to be confused with a simple power strip) to protect any electronics not connected to a UPS.

If you use cordless phones for your landline, purchase a regular corded model that doesn’t require power. These usually keep working after the power goes out and are still the best way to reach emergency services. Keep some cash available, either in a small safe or hidden away in a lockbox; ATMs and cash registers won’t work during a blackout.

Stock up on batteries and, if you live in a blackout-prone area, you should consider investing in a solar- or gas-powered generator. Secure any generator with a cable lock or chain, as it may be a target for theft by the less prepared and larcenous. Have fun while you wait with board games, puzzles, charades, cards, and crafts.

160 GUARD THE NEIGHBORHOOD

When your entire neighborhood is dark, those familiar streets may suddenly seem ominous. But there is strength in numbers, especially if you’ve made the effort of getting to know your neighbors. If you’re new to your neighborhood or haven’t yet met your neighbors, you can use disaster preparedness as the perfect excuse to do so. Here are some things that your neighborhood can coordinate together.

PHONE IT IN Create a neighborhood phone list with both landlines and mobile numbers. Circulate it via e-mail so everyone has each others’ e-mail as well.

HAM IT UP See if anyone in your neighborhood is a HAM operator, and agree in advance what frequencies to use to communicate. Alternatively, everyone in the neighborhood can coordinate on the cheap and nearly ubiquitous Family Radio Service (FRS) radios that don’t require a license to operate.

SET A WATCH Create a neighborhood watch program if one doesn’t already exist for your immediate area. If one does, join it and also advocate to create a blackout plan for the neighborhood.

CHECK IN As part of your neighborhood disaster plan, you can add a standard practice of neighbors checking in on each other to make sure everything is okay. If your neighbor is not home at the time, you can also be a good neighbor by keeping an eye on their property for them.

GO ON PATROL In a blackout, have a neighborhood watch group patrol the area to keep an eye on things and to deter opportunistic criminals.

161 EAT RIGHT IN AN OUTAGE

Food can spoil quickly during an extended power outage, and having a plan for how to consume your perishables will help prevent any foodborne illness. Here’s how to prioritize what to consume first.

First, use perishable foods from the refrigerator before they spoil. An unopened fridge will keep foods cold for about 4 hours, so keep the doors closed as much as possible.

Next, consume food from the freezer. A full freezer will stay cold for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

If it looks like the power outage will continue beyond a day, prepare a camping cooler with ice for your freezer items.

Use canned items, dry goods, and nonperishable foods last, as they will stay edible the longest.

162 THROW IT OUT IF IT’S THAWED

Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures above 40°F (4°C) for 2 hours or longer, or that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. Don’t rely on taste or appearance to determine whether it’s safe for you to eat.

If the food in the freezer is colder than 40°F (4°C) and has ice crystals, you can refreeze it. If you are not sure whether food is cold enough, take its temperature by using a food thermometer. When in doubt, throw it out!

ESSENTIAL GEAR

163 COMMUNICATE CLEARLY

In an extended power outage or other disaster, it’s likely that your landline, cell phone, or Internet connection will stop working. Here are some items you can use to keep you safe and communicating with others.

1 HAM RADIO Amateur radio might seem almost quaint, but during a disaster, HAM radio is often one of the most reliable ways to communicate with others and call for help. Handheld radios have a limited range, however, a network of free repeaters can extend coverage over hundreds of miles, and base stations with large antennas can communicate globally, but you’ll need to get a license.

2 MURS RADIO Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) is the big brother to the inexpensive Family Radio Service (FRS) devices in common use today on ski slopes and camping trips. Both types are license-free, but MURS has better range and is less crowded with other users. Neither radio type has a formal emergency channel; however, they can provide easy and inexpensive communication for neighborhood watch and other groups.

3 CITIZEN’S BAND Radio CB radios have a highly dedicated following even though the older technology suffers from poorer audio quality than its modern cousins, the handheld range is relatively small, and the units tend to be bulky. However, CB channel 9 is a monitored emergency channel that can be used to call for help, which makes CB still relevant in areas with no cell coverage.

4 PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACONS PLBs have their origins in maritime and aviation search and rescue. Once modern electronics decreased the size of a unit to that of a large cell phone, it was possible for portable applications like hiking or backcountry skiing to make use of the technology. By combining a radio transmitter and GPS receiver, a PLB first sends a unique code that identifies you and then broadcasts a homing signal to allow planes to find your location. You may be billed for the cost of your rescue.

5 SATELLITE MESSENGERS Using the same technology and network as satellite phones, these compact devices are used similarly to a PLB to call for help, send text messages, and transmit their location so others can track the user on a website. They are popular with hikers and long-distance travelers who don’t need the function or expense of a full satellite phone.

6 SATELLITE PHONE The per-minute cost of a satellite call is much higher than that of a regular cell phone—but worth it in an emergency. Intended for areas where there is no cell phone coverage, they’re also extremely helpful when a disaster affects the local phone infrastructure. If you need one temporarily, plenty of companies rent them for short-term use.

7 HAND-CRANKED RADIO No longer just a type of AM/FM/weather radio, these handy devices are also a functional hub with multiple charging options (including AC, DC, battery, solar, and USB), a flashlight, a USB port for charging small electronics, audio jacks for use as an external speaker, and a versatile part of every home disaster kit.

8 WIRELESS HOTSPOTS These are useful in everyday settings, but when your internet connection is lost due to infrastructure damage, it can take awhile to get back online. If you absolutely need to be online, one of these devices will provide you with Internet access anywhere there is a 4G connection available.

9 BLUETOOTH MESSAGING APP The newest classification of instant messenger apps, such as FireChat for smartphones, uses bluetooth technology instead of an Internet connection or mobile phone coverage. This allows the phone to be used anywhere, even if networks are down, in a peer-to-peer mode that also helps you discover who is nearby. Coordinate with others in advance so that everyone in a group has the app downloaded before you lose network connectivity for any reason.

DEVICE

HAM (UHF)

TYPICAL COST: $200–300

MONTHLY FEES: None

LICENCE REQUIRED: Yes

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): 3¹

POWER (WATTS): 5

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: Yes/No/No²

MURS

TYPICAL COST: $100–200

MONTHLY FEES: None

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): 3

POWER (WATTS): 2

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: Yes/No/No

GMRS

TYPICAL COST: $50

MONTHLY FEES: None

LICENCE REQUIRED: Yes

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): 1

POWER (WATTS): 5

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: Yes/No/No

FRS

TYPICAL COST: $25

MONTHLY FEES: None

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): <1

POWER (WATTS): 0.5

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: Yes/No/No

CB

TYPICAL COST: $100

MONTHLY FEES: None

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): 2

POWER (WATTS): 5

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: No/No/No

PLB

TYPICAL COST: $150–300

MONTHLY FEES: Yes

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): Global

POWER (WATTS): N/A

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: Yes/Yes/Yes

SATELLITE PHONE

TYPICAL COST: $200–1000

MONTHLY FEES: Yes

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): Global

POWER (WATTS): N/A

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: No/Yes/Yes

SATELLITE MESSENGER

TYPICAL COST: $200–300

MONTHLY FEES: Yes

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): Global

POWER (WATTS): N/A

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: No/Yes/Yes

BLUETOOTH MESSAGING

TYPICAL COST: Free

MONTHLY FEES: None

LICENCE REQUIRED: No

DEPENDABLE AVERAGE RANGE (MILES): 200 feet

POWER (WATTS): N/A

VOICE/TEXT/DATA: No/Yes/Yes

¹ Can be extended to hundreds of miles/km with repeaters.

² Requires additional hardware.

164 KEEP YOUR HOME SECURE

“Each man’s home is his safest refuge.” This 17th-century English legal concept has been interpreted as meaning that you can exclude whomever you wish from your home. To deter criminals, you’ll want more than the law on your side.

BE ALARMED Install a burglar alarm with a mix of sensor types, including motion, shock (to detect windows being broken), smoke, heat, and contact sensors.

TAPE IT Install security cameras that record to cloud storage so you’ll have evidence if anything happens. You can even view your camera feeds via a smartphone app or Web page if you want to check in on your property remotely.

TRICK THEM You can buy phony alarm company stickers and even fake cameras (which come complete with red LED indicators). Burglars generally make a split-second decision as to whether a target is worth the trouble, so you really don’t need to fool them for long.

LIGHT ’EM UP Install a set of motion sensor lights or bright floodlights outside so that no one can hide in the shadows or sneak up to your house.

PRETEND YOU’RE HOME Install timers that turn lights, TVs, and radios on and then off at preprogrammed times to make it appear that you’re home.

LOCK UP Don’t make it easy; lock all doors and windows when you leave your home. Make sure all entrance doors have a deadbolt lock to better secure against intrusion.

KEEP YOUR KEYS Avoid hiding a key outside; if you do, don’t hide it in a flowerpot or other obvious place a burglar might check. Consider asking a trusted neighbor to hold duplicate keys for you instead.

BAR THE DOOR If you have sliding glass doors or windows, install security bars or wooden dowels cut to fit into the tracks so that they can’t be popped open. Add decorative reinforcement or kick plates to any entrance door to strengthen it.

WATCH OUT Create or join a neighborhood watch program so that people in your neighborhood will help keep an eye on each other’s property.

165 STEP UP YOUR SECURITY

If you want to do even more to secure your home, here are some additional tactics to consider. A couple of them may require a little more time or money, but your peace of mind may be worth the cost.

SAY HI Intercom-style doorbells have cameras, speakers, and microphones that connect to your smartphone, so you can answer your door “in person” even if you’re away, making it seem like you’re home.

GET SPINY To make windows less accessible to intruders, plant thorny bushes or shrubs under them. In addition, keep your lawn mowed and your garden neat—an unkempt yard signals that no one is home.

HIDE IT If you tend to keep any valuables in the house, install a wall safe or other secure secret compartment to hide things from intruders.

BOLT IT If a garage is connected to your house, consider putting an outside accessible deadbolt lock on it, or find some way to physically disable the door with a locked bolt from the inside when you’re on vacation for extra protection.

166 LET FIDO HELP OUT

Of course you shouldn’t adopt a dog just for protection, but if you’re considering making a dog a part of your family anyway, you may find that it can be a great deterrent and early-warning system. Even a tiny lap dog can bark up a storm if it senses an intruder approaching, which can be enough to make the bad guy decide your house is not worth the hassle. If you have one of the larger breeds, you’ll also deter burglars who are afraid of dogs.

In fact, just having “Beware of Dog” stickers on windows or signs on gates or fences may deter thieves even if you don’t have a dog at home. There are even some alarm systems that play recorded dog barks. All have a deterrent effect but are nowhere near as fun as having an actual four-legged friend.

167 HANDLE A HOME INVASION

If you’re home when a burglar breaks in or you’re the target of a home-invasion-style robbery, you will have to quickly determine how to protect yourself and your family, along with whether you’ll be able to protect your property. You never want to risk your own safety or that of others just to protect stuff. Stuff is replaceable but you or your kids are not. You should plan for each option as a household, and discuss them so that everyone knows the game plan. Your basic options are to hide, evade, flee, or fight. Be prepared to change plans as the circumstances change.

HIDE

If your chosen strategy is to hide, then follow these steps to stay safe even if you lose some of your property in the process. This strategy only works before the thief has discovered that you’re home.

Be sure all bedrooms have locks on them. That way, if the intruder isn’t in your room, you can lock the door. Alternatively, you can have a reinforced panic room to retreat to.

To protect other members of your household that are not yet aware, sneak around and quietly alert them so that they can lock their doors or retreat to the panic room.

If that isn’t possible, yell “lock down” to alert them and switch to the EVADE strategy.

Call the police and stay on the line until they arrive.

Position yourself and others in the corner opposite of the door and prepare to FIGHT if the intruder breaks into the room.

Wait for the police to thoroughly clear your house of any unwanted guests.

EVADE

If you have a clear exit available, flight may be the wisest strategy of avoiding confrontation can help keep you safe.

If the person is not in your room, lock the door or head to the panic room. If you can’t notify everyone quietly then call out “lock down” so everyone can take immediate action to protect themselves.

Call the police and stay on the line until they arrive, if possible.

To attract attention and possibly scare away the thief, set off your car alarm remotely, trigger your home’s security alarm, or yell out the window to your neighbors for help.

Be prepared to FLEE the room you’re in if the intruder confronts you.

If the intruder demands property such as cash, jewelry, and other valuables, comply but keep your distance and be ready to switch to the FIGHT strategy if they endanger you or another family member.

Hold out until the police arrive.

FLEE

If the intruder knows you’re home, a strategy

If you attempt to flee and can’t for some reason, be ready to switch to either the EVADE or FIGHT strategies.

If possible, grab your wallet, purse, cell phone, and car keys.

Call the police if you have your cell phone or ask a neighbor to call for you.

If you’re not able to get to your car safely to flee, go to a neighbor’s house, pound on their door and yell for help. If they don’t answer quickly, go to the next house and do the same. If you happen to alert more neighbors in the process, that’s not a bad thing.

If no one answers their door, keep fleeing until you are in a safe public place. Ask a bystander to call the police if you don’t have your phone with you.

Have the police fully clear your home of any intruders before you enter.

FIGHT

Sometimes you will have no choice but to fight to protect you and your loved ones. Be mentally and physically prepared to take defend yourself.

Call the police and after they let you know that help is on the way put the phone down without hanging up so the dispatcher can hear what’s happening.

Assess what weapons the intruder has. If they have a gun and you don’t, or the odds are against you, consider switching to either the EVADE or FLEE strategies.

When you are first confronted by the intruder, tell them “the police have been called” on the off chance that this will be enough to make them leave.

If you have children in the home, have them FLEE while you fight to incapacitate the intruder.

If you are armed and the burglar is not, allow them to leave if you can’t safely hold them until police arrives

Fight to eliminate the threat. Once the intruder is subdued, hold them until police arrive or use the opportunity to FLEE.

168 USE FORCE JUDICIOUSLY

There are times when it’s unavoidable to have to use a weapon against someone threatening you, but those times are very few and far between. It’s been all too common for a gun owner to panic and injure or kill an innocent person whom they mistook for a threat. In many jurisdictions, you can only use deadly force when you fear for your life and retreat is not possible, or when protecting the life of another. Deadly force used only in defense of property may result in your arrest, a public trial, and prison time. Check with local and state laws to ensure you understand how this may apply to your self-defense. Your first option should always be to avoid confrontation or, if that’s unavoidable, to try to diffuse tensions nonviolently.

169 INSTALL SMOKE DETECTORS

In the event of a house fire, an early warning can often quite literally make the difference between life and death. You should have at least one smoke alarm in every room of your house, except for bathrooms and closets.

SAVE THE DATE Before mounting your smoke detector, write down the date of purchase on the inside of the battery door. After 10 years, replace it.

MOUNT IT HIGH Smoke rises, so mount your detector on the ceiling away from windows and doors and a minimum of 4 inches (10 cm) from any wall. Avoid placing one in the path of heat or steam coming from the kitchen or bathroom; otherwise it may set off false alarms.

MOUNT IT RIGHT All smoke detectors come with a set of specific mounting instructions. Luckily, most make it easy for you, requiring little more than a screwdriver and two screws.

TEST IT OFTEN You should check your detector once a month to ensure that it’s working properly. Simply push the button until you hear a loud noise that confirms all is well. If there’s no sound, you’ve got a dud—replace it.

KEEP BATTERIES FRESH Replace the battery once a year. If it starts making an annoying chirping sound, that’s your cue that it’s time for new juice.

170 DETECT CARBON MONOXIDE

Carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless, tasteless, and odorless—unlike smoke from a fire—which means that the only way to detect it in your home is with a warning device. It’s possible to buy combined CO/smoke detectors, but if you don’t have the combo version, your CO alarm will not also serve as a smoke alarm. In other words, be sure you’re covered on both fronts.

Carbon monoxide is produced from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Inside the home, CO can be formed by multiple sources such as open flames, space heaters, water heaters, blocked chimneys, or running a car inside a garage. The best practice is to make sure there’s at least one CO alarm in every bedroom of your house and at least one on each level, including the basement and garage, and excluding bathrooms and closets. A CO detector should not be placed within fifteen feet of heating or cooking appliances or near any very humid areas such as bathrooms or showers.

SAVE THE DATE Before mounting your CO detector, write the date of purchase on the back. After 5 or 6 years, replace it with a new one.

KEEP IT DOWN Mount at about knee height or a bit higher if you have pets or kids that may knock them off the wall.

PLUG IT IN Many CO detectors are designed to be plugged into an outlet, which makes mounting as simple as plugging it in.

TEST IT OFTEN Check once a month that it’s still working, and replace the batteries annually or as needed.

171 PREVENT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

If you’re snowed in without power, be careful with sources of flame, as these can cause CO poisoning.

PREVENT THE PROBLEM Never bring a charcoal grill or gas generator indoors for any reason. Even using a propane lantern or stove indoors can raise the CO concentration to a dangerous level. Space heaters are also notorious killers, especially if they’re left running after everyone goes to bed.

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS Watch for vertigo, fatigue, headaches, or erratic behavior. If more than one person in the house is experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to take action.

EVACUATE If you suspect that someone has been affected, get everyone outdoors immediately and open windows and doors to allow ventilation. For mild cases, fresh air is sufficient treatment. For serious cases, seek medical help.

FIND THE PROBLEM Discover the cause of the high concentration of CO and have the situation remedied. Call the fire department for assistance in re-entering your home safely.

172 DON’T RELY ON THE STICKER

Many veterinarian clinics and animal shelters hand out window stickers that are supposed to alert firefighters of any pets in your home, making their rescue more likely. The problem is, it’s more likely that they don’t. Too many people forget to remove the stickers when they move or a pet dies, so fire fighting officials know the information may be inaccurate. Also, a firefighter’s job is to stay safe as their first priority, and rescue people as a second priority. Pets and property are lower priorities, but the way they search for victims in a house will also present opportunities to save your beloved pets. Your best bet is to tell the firefighters on scene how many pets are in the house.

173 USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

You want to be sure you know how to use your fire extinguisher before you need to. Read the instructions that came with the fire extinguisher, and remember the mnemonic PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.

PULL the pin out of the extinguisher’s handle and lever.

AIM the nozzle toward the base of the flames, not at the flames themselves.

SQUEEZE the handle and the lever together to begin spraying the contents of the extinguisher.

SWEEP the nozzle from side to side, moving closer once the fire starts to diminish, until the fire is fully put out. Depending on its size you have about 10 to 20 seconds of operating time before the extinguisher is empty.

174 FIGHT A FIRE RIGHT

Different types of fires will need to be fought in different ways. In order to extinguish any given blaze safely, you should know the best methods for fighting each class of fire (especially those that are most likely to happen in your home) and always have the correct extinguishers on hand.

CLASS

FIRE TYPE: Common combustibles (wood, paper, clothing, certain plastics)

SAFETY NOTES: Use water or smother flames; a foam or CO₂ extinguisher can also work.

FIRE TYPE: Flammable liquids and gasses (motor oil, gasoline, common solvents)

SAFETY NOTES: Water can spread these fires; spray a foam or CO₂ extinguisher or smother with a wet blanket.

FIRE TYPE: Electrical (live electrical equipment and wall outlets)

SAFETY NOTES: Never use water, which conducts electricity; use a CO2 or dry chemical extinguisher.

FIRE TYPE: Combustible metals (magnesium, lithium, titanium, and others)

SAFETY NOTES: Use a special dry powder chemical extinguisher (there are different types for use on specific metals).

FIRE TYPE: Kitchen fires (grease, oils, and fats)

SAFETY NOTES: Water can spread these fires; smother with baking soda or use a kitchen extinguisher.

175 KNOW WHEN TO FLEE

Before attempting to put out any fire, even if you do have the right extinguisher, ask yourself the following questions.

Has someone called the fire department? Do you have a clear exit route so you won’t be trapped while approaching the fire? Do you have the right type of extinguisher for the type of fire? Is the extinguisher large enough for the fire? Is the fire small and contained?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, evacuate immediately. Your safety is your highest priority.

176 CLIMB TO SAFETY

If you live in a multistory single-family home or an apartment building that doesn’t have fire escapes, it’s crucial to have a way to escape if your stairs or front door are blocked by fire and there are no other ways out. You don’t want to have to wait for the fire department to bring a ladder to you, since you may be overcome by smoke before they arrive.

Thankfully a number of manufacturers sell emergency ladders that roll or fold to a very small size for easy storage. When you need the ladder, you quickly unfurl it, hook it over a windowsill, and climb to safety. You should have one on each floor; the best practice is to have one for each bedroom. Make sure children in your household know how to use them and review how to use them, when you do your annual fire drill.

177 HOLD YOUR BREATH

Wildfires, a house fire, or even a festive bonfire can expose you to harmful levels of smoke. Hot smoke in particular can be the most dangerous, as it can burn your throat or lungs, and it can also contain other harmful gases.

Signs of smoke inhalation can include coughing; difficulty breathing, hoarse voice or difficulty speaking, nausea or vomiting, headache, or feeling sleepy, disoriented, or confused. If you notice someone with any combination of these symptoms, get them out into fresh air and call emergency responders for help.

178 STOP, DROP, AND ROLL

What do you do if your clothing catches on fire and there’s no fire extinguisher or water source nearby? Your answer is simple and effective: Stop, drop, and roll. Be sure that any kids in your household know this technique, and review it annually as part of any fire drills you conduct for the family (and yes, you really should be doing those fire drills). If you see someone else on fire, yell “Stop, drop, and roll!” at them. They will likely be panicked, so you may need to repeat it a couple of times. You can also help smother the fire but be sure to smother towards their feet so as to not push the flames up to their face.

STOP Be sure you’re away from the source of the fire and on a surface you can roll around on. Any unneeded movement will fan the flames and thus increase your chances of being burned by them.

DROP Lay down on the ground while covering your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands.

ROLL Roll over and back and forth until the flames are out. Remove any burned clothing immediately.

179 ESCAPE A BURNING HOUSE

The key to surviving a fire in your home is having an effective plan in place before the smoldering starts.

KNOW WHERE TO GO Visibility is nearly zero in smoky conditions, so you need to know your escape route by heart. For rooms that have more than one exit, consider which of them would work best in different situations. Practice evacuating with a blindfold on, with someone watching you to keep you safe.

STAY LOW Heat rises; so do smoke and flame. If you’re exiting a burning building, get on your hands and knees and crawl toward the nearest safe exit. Cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth to fight smoke inhalation.

ANTICIPATE Before you open a door, feel for heat on the flat surface rather than the doorknob, which could be dangerously hot. Look under the door, too, for visible flames. If there’s any doubt, head to a secondary exit.

SHUN STAIRS If you’re trapped on an upper level, get out through a window (have escape ladders at the ready for just such an emergency). Don’t use a stairway, because it can act like a chimney, funneling heat and smoke upward.

DON’T BE A HERO Under no circumstance should you remain inside to fight a blaze. If an initial flare-up is not immediately contained, evacuate right away. Run outside, call 911, and let the fire department put out the flames.

180 SMOTHER A FIRE

Fires need three things to thrive: heat, air, and fuel. Take away any one of these and the fire will go out. An effective way to extinguish a small fire is to deny it air. Use a heavy blanket or coat to completely cover the fire, and press down forcefully. Don’t toss it lightly on the flames or it will actually feed the fire. If a pan on the stove ignites, smother it with a metal lid.

181 RESPOND TO FIRES

If a fire should break out in or near your home, it pays to be well prepared with multiple methods of putting out the fire or getting away from it. Here’s a list of good suggestions for your house.

PREPARED

ESCAPE If your building doesn’t have a fire escape, have folding escape ladders available.

NETWORK Connect your fire alarm to central monitoring (can be tied in with your burglar alarm). Network all your smoke alarms together for simultaneous alarm.

SPRINKLERS Get a sprinkler system installed.

PHONE Program the direct dial number for your fire department into your cellphone.

EXTINGUISH Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

BLANKETS Have fire blankets available to smother flames.

Even if you don’t have a full fire-fighting plan for your home or if you are somewhere that lacks the resources, you can still deal with fires if you act quickly. Here are some ways to do so.

IMPROVISED

EXTINGUISH Use a garden hose, a bucket of water or sand, or a shovel and dirt to extinguish the fire.

PHONE Dial 911 on your cell phone.

ESCAPE Climb out of a window using sheets and/or rope tied together.

SMALL FIRES Extinguish a small fire using a wet wool blanket or coat

BAKING SODA Apply baking soda to grease fires.

BREATHE Breathe though a wet handkerchief.

182 FIX A FLOODED BASEMENT

There are many reasons your basement can flood, including burst pipes, rain, broken gutters, leaky windows, a damaged foundation, construction, even tree roots growing into your pipes and blocking them. Even a small amount of water can damage the flooring and anything you’ve placed on it. If the water level rises higher, items on shelves and in cabinets can be affected. In addition, if your water heater or furnace is in the basement, it can also sustain damage.

A flooded basement is not only an expensive hassle, it’s also potentially fatal. If there is any standing water, assume that it’s now a dangerous electrical hazard. Before venturing in, make sure that it’s safe by having an electrician, a utility employee, or a firefighter turn off the power at the meter (this is much safer than just turning off circuits, but must be done by a professional).

If you have any gas appliances installed in the basement, be sure to shut off the gas main until the entire basement has been cleared of water.

Once it’s safe to enter the basement, the easiest way to drain it is to rent a pump or to have a service do it for you. There will likely be extensive property damage, and the risk of developing mold means that you will need to properly dehumidify and rehabilitate the space. This can be complex, time consuming, and expensive. If you do not possess the experience to handle it right, hire professionals who do.

To prevent or limit damage, protect your belongings by placing them on shelves in watertight containers. Install a sump pump; if you live in a particularly damp area, run a dehumidifier in the basement during the cold and damp months. Install any electrical outlets and equipment high up. Install ground fault interrupter (GFI) outlets as required by code, and don’t leave extension cords on the floor.

183 BUILD A WALL

Sandbags will not create a perfectly waterproof seal, but placed correctly they are quite effective at diverting relatively slow-moving water so that it runs around rather than through your home. Before building your wall, think about how you’d remove any water that might get trapped between the wall and your home. (Do you have a pump? Would you have to bail it out by hand?). Place a bag over any floor drains to stop gray water or sewage from backing up if local sewer lines get overloaded. Most experts say not to stack the bags more than three layers high (about 1 foot (30 cm)). If waters are rising higher than that, you should probably evacuate rather than trying to fend off increasingly dangerous floodwaters.

184 MAKE A PYRAMID

Pyramids made from sandbags are used to reinforce levees or as free-standing walls, and can be built much higher with successive layers.

STEP 1 Place sandbags with the untied opening in the direction that the water is expect to flow from. Tuck the open end under itself to anchor the flap under the bag’s weight.

STEP 2 Finish laying out your entire first row.

STEP 3 Lay a second row on the ground next to the first. Offset the second row so that the center of each second-row bag is positioned adjacent to the space between the first-row bags.

STEP 4 Lay a third row next to the first two and offset once again.

STEP 5 Start out your second layer by placing a bag offset on top and between the first and second row.

STEP 6 Lay another row next to that, on top and between the second and third row.

STEP 7 Continue stacking bags in this fashion until your pyramid is up to the height you desire.

185 FILL SANDBAGS CORRECTLY

Manually filling, moving, and placing sandbags can be physically demanding work. Because this involves repeatedly lifting and carrying heavy sandbags it’s best done in small groups of four people, but it can be done with less people if need be. Each person in a group should have a role. The key roles are bagger, shoveler, and mover. If you have a fourth person, they can rotate into the other three positions as well as help out with moving filled bags or whatever needs support to keep the process going.

Both burlap and poly bags are used to make sandbags. Both will last about eight months to a year before needing to be replaced. Sandbags filled one-half to two-thirds full should generally be left untied. Tied bags, filled slightly fuller, are mostly used for specific purposes such as filling holes or holding objects in position. Bags should also be tied shut if you’re transporting or stockpiling them. However, since they are often filled at or near the placement site, tying the bags is frequently a waste of time and effort.

STEP 1 Make sure everyone is wearing work gloves, especially the person serving as “bagger,” since their hands can be injured by the shovel during filling.

STEP 2 The bagger crouches with their feet apart and arms extended, placing the bottom of the empty bag on the ground.

STEP 3 Next, the bagger folds the open end of the bag outward a few inches to form a collar and holds the bag open.

STEP 4 The shoveler carefully places sand into the bag.

STEP 5 Finally, the mover adds the bag to the wall.

186 GET KIDS READY

Helping kids prepare for emergencies can be scary for them. But emergencies can strike anyone at any time, and the best defense is preparation. Reassuring kids that planning and preparing allows everyone to better handle the problem can help them cope. Here are some age-appropriate activities to help kids prepare.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AGE

• Conduct a scavenger hunt for items that should go into an emergency kit.

• Volunteer to take part in a food drive or other community preparedness activity.

• Discuss different places where emergencies could happen (such as at school, at home, or at a park) and how to prepare for those different types of situations.

• Have children write and illustrate a storybook on how to prepare for an emergency.

• Ask them questions such as: What do we do when a tornado comes? What is an emergency plan? Where is our emergency kit? What do we put into it?

• Work together to make a mini disaster kit and go bag for each child; include a few fun toys and something else that provides them comfort, like a stuffed animal.

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL AGE

• Take a first-aid or CPR class.

• Teach them how to shut off the utilities in case of emergency.

• Have them write a report, create a poster, or make a short video about a specific hazard.

• Tour a fire department or other emergency service provider.

• Take a class to get licensed for HAM radio.

• Work together to create an everyday carry kit.

HIGH SCHOOL AGE

• Volunteer with the Red Cross, a local CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program, or a fire department explorer program.

• Create an emergency kit for their car.

• Have them write an article for their school newspaper or blog or do a school assignment on emergency preparedness.

• Brainstorm how they could work with a local disaster relief organization to prepare others for an emergency, and then make it happen.

• Teach them how to purify water with bleach, by boiling, or with other water-purification techniques.

187 EXPLAIN CLEARLY

As a parent you want to protect your children during a disaster. You may not want to discuss the situation in front of them, or let them see how worried you are, but avoiding the issue might be equally stressful for them. Listen to your kids and ask them about their feelings. Give an appropriate amount of detail for them to understand the situation.

Repetitive media coverage can increase concerns or anxiety; consider watching with your children so you can talk with them and answer questions in the moment. Discuss next steps for the family, and involve them in the decision-making process. Review and update family disaster and communication plans.

Also, seek support from counseling, friends, or family to help with your own stress; you’ll be better able to support your kids.

188 PREPARE ONLINE

A wide variety of preparedness activities can be done online at various websites, or in the form of downloadable content such as coloring books, comic books, and games that are fun and engaging for kids. Google for a resource you like or try some of these favorites:

• Disaster Master

• Kids Get a Plan

• Preparedness 101: Zombie Pandemic

• Mickey & Friends: Disaster Preparedness Activity Book

189 TEACH YOUR KIDS TO BE SAFE

There are a few skills every child should learn to help keep them safe when you’re not there to protect or guide them.

DON’T WANDER Lost children become scared very quickly, and their natural response is to begin searching for their family. Remind your children to stop as soon as they realize they are lost and to call for help with their cell phone or a whistle. Assure them that staying in one place allows them to be found more easily.

STAY SAFE AT HOME Very young children don’t have the judgment to correctly assess if it’s okay to open the door for someone knocking. It might be a friendly neighbor but it could also be someone with ill intentions. Instead, instruct them to not answer the door for anyone, and to keep all the doors and windows locked and blinds and curtains closed. Additionally, you can install a video doorbell that routes the video signal to your smartphone so that you can see who is at your door and interact with them through the intercom even when you’re away from home.

CALL FOR HELP As soon as they are able, kids should learn how to dial 911 and report an emergency. Spend time with them to regularly review how to make emergency phone calls, teaching your children to say their name, address, and the nature of a problem such as a fire or that someone is sick. Remind them to follow the dispatcher’s instructions, and then stay on the line until help does arrive, to open the door when the dispatcher tells them to, and to turn on outdoor lights if it’s nighttime.

TRUST YOUR FEELINGS This one skill can help your child avoid many potentially dangerous situation. The concept is simple: When a child feels uncomfortable in any situation, they should find an adult that they can trust, look for an official presence (such as a police officer, a teacher, or other authority figure), or, if possible, go home. If they have a cell phone, they can call a parent or emergency number. Tell them it’s better to ask for help, and that if it turns out to be nothing you won’t be mad at them for doing the right thing. In other words, better safe than sorry.

190 SPOT A POTENTIAL RUNAWAY

Every at-risk child will display different signs that they might be planning to run away. Here are some things to keep an eye out for.

Worrisome changes in behavior can include a variety of emotional or mental health–related issues, including overeating, loss of appetite, sleeping all day, insomnia, staying away from home, avoiding family members, or never wanting to leave their room. Teens may also have mood swings or other signs of stress.

It’s normal for teenagers to be rebellious, but some behaviors may actually be a precursor to running away. Be concerned about poor performance in school, bad grades, truancy, breaking rules at home, refusing to do chores, or picking fights.

A more obvious sign is a child threatening or hinting that they will run away. Other members of the family may hear rumors through friends, school, or even other parents that their child is thinking of leaving.

To survive as a runaway, your child will need money and resources. Some prepare by making withdrawals from their bank accounts or looking for other ways to gather cash or valuable. They may also pack a bag of clothes and personal effects so that they can leave at a moment’s notice.

191 CONVINCE A TEEN TO STAY

If you’re facing the moment when a teen is threatening to leave, it’s time to switch tactics to see if you can persuade them to stay. Kids often leave home after an argument with their parents or after some major event, but below are four tactics to try before they leave.

CALM THINGS DOWN Try to get your child to calm down for a few minutes. Say something like “Why don’t you sit right here in the kitchen and take a timeout. I’ll be back in five minutes.” It’s not a good idea to send the kid to their room; they may have all their supplies there and might bolt more readily.

ASK QUESTIONS Ask them about the situation, but don’t focus on what they are feeling because some kids want to argue about how they’re feeling rather than discuss the real issue. Try asking, “What’s going on?” or “What happened to make you want to leave?”

BE PERSUASIVE Teens may be running away from problems they can’t handle or because they are feeling overwhelmed. Ask your child questions like “What’s so different about this situation that you think you can’t handle it?” Remind them that things will eventually be ok, that “facing the music” is part of life and that you've had similar challenges. Convince them you believe in their ability to cope with this and the even if they made a mistake, it’s not the end of the world. By not blaming them, you may be able to have an environment that allows them to feel okay with staying.

BE FRANK Calmly let your child know that you’re concerned about them and that you’re afraid they might run away from home. Suggest that they find someone to talk about what’s bothering them and be supportive of finding positive ways of help them cope with their stress. Let them know that you don’t want them to run away and that you’re committed to helping the family work things out.

192 HANDLE A MISSING TEEN

If, despite your best efforts to convince your teen not to run away, they manage to do so anyway, here are some steps to help find them. Law enforcement may offer some additional support or suggestions. No matter what happens, this will be an emotional time, and you’ll likely experience a gamut of feelings, including anger, fear, and shame.

Immediately notify the police and file a missing persons report, as there is no waiting period for reporting children under age 18. Call the National Runaway Safeline (NRS) at 1-800-RUNAWAY; NRS runs a 24-hour confidential hotline for teens and their families, and you can leave a message with them for your child.

Search their room for anything that may give you a clue as to where they went. Look at phone bills, e-mail activity, text messages, credit card activity, bank statements, and other records for clues where your child might have gone.

Reach out and get support from other family members, trusted friends, or other members of your support network during and after the ordeal. Some children will head to a nearby friend or relative for refuge. Call anyone you think your child might reach out to, and ask them to let you know if they contacted them. Or, ask that person to tell your child to call the NRS to receive or leave a message, if you suspect that your child doesn’t want to call you directly.

Print posters in case your teen is still in the area. Contact the news desk of your local television station or newspaper. Also, call your child’s school. Talk to the staff, teachers, or counselors for any information that might be useful.

193 HELP A LOST CHILD

If you happen to come across a young lost child in a park, store, or other public place, you can do the right thing by helping them get reunited with their parents.

STEP 1 Get down to the child’s level. Crouch or sit with them to establish rapport.

STEP 2 Ask if they need help. Don’t assume anything—the child may be fine, so be sure help is needed.

STEP 3 If they say yes, assure them you’ll help them and stay with them.

STEP 4 Gather any information they are able to tell about their parents, such as their names, the clothing that they are wearing, and what they look like. Ask if they know a parent’s phone number.

STEP 5 Contact police, security, or any available staff for assistance.

STEP 6 Stay at the location where you found the child.

194 CHILDPROOF YOUR HOME

Accidents, especially with kids, occur quickly and without warning. All it takes is that one distracted moment for an injury to occur to a child, but these little emergencies can be prevented with a little bit of effort. It might help to crawl around your house on your hands and knees to see things from their perspective. Here are some tips to help make your home safe for kids.

AROUND THE HOUSE

Keep floors and lower shelves free of small items that could present a choking hazard.

Check to see if any plants in the house are potentially poisonous.

Keep potpourri and any flower arrangements with rocks or marbles out of reach.

Cover unused electrical outlets with outlet protectors or safety caps.

Secure rugs to the floors or fit them with anti-slip pads.

Install finger-pinch guards on doors.

Attach TVs, equipment, bookshelves and other furniture to the wall with secure brackets, especially in earthquake country.

Install stops on all removable drawers.

Make sure any room near a water source, such as a bathroom or kitchen, has ground-fault interrupter (GFI) outlets installed.

Secure gas fireplaces with a valve cover or key.

Install screens on working fireplaces.

Tie window-blind cords out of kids’ reach to prevent strangulation.

Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs and in the doorways of rooms with hazards, such as kitchens.

BATHROOM

Keep cosmetics, razors, grooming scissors, and medicines or vitamins out of reach or locked up.

Hide wastebasket under the sink or in a locked cabinet, or ensure it has a secure lid.

Install childproof latches installed on all cabinet doors.

Store medicines and other products in their original containers.

Keep all hair dryers, curling irons, and electric razors unplugged when not in use.

Install nonskid strips in bathtubs and showers.

KITCHEN

Keep knives, forks, scissors, and other sharp tools in a drawer with a childproof latch.

Keep bottles containing alcohol stored out of reach.

Install childproof latches installed on all cabinet doors.

Turn pot handles away from the front of the stove to prevent accidents or spills.

HOME OFFICE/WORKSPACE

Keep scissors and office supplies where your child can’t grab them.

Hang a mirror on the wall above workstations or computer monitors so you can see kids playing in the area behind you.

Keep any hazardous tools, poisons, or chemical products in your immediate control when in use.

SAFE STORAGE

Store matches and lighters securely.

Store any toxic or poisonous substances in their original containers, and out of reach and sight.

Store firearms unloaded in a locked case with ammunition securely stored in a separate place.

OUTDOORS

Keep garages and garden sheds locked to prevent access to tools and chemicals.

Ensure walkways and outdoor stairways are well lit.

Make sure pools, even shallow wading or decorative pools, are fenced off with a self-closing gate and a childproof lock.

195 DON’T HAVE A HOT DOG

Some pet owners don’t realize that, even with the windows slightly open, the temperature inside of a car rises pretty quickly. It some circumstances the interior temperature can increase by 50 °F (122 °C) in about an hour. Lowering the windows just a little bit doesn’t cool things down very much.

Signs of heat stroke in a dog include excessive panting or drooling, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, disorientation, collapse, and unconsciousness. Heat stroke can also lead to seizure and respiratory arrest.

If you see a dog in a car on a hot day, it may be hard for you to know if it’s okay. If you’re worried, here are steps to take to help.

STEP 1 Note the car’s color, model, make, license plate number, specific location, and time you first observed the car. Additionally, write down your observations of the dog’s condition, especially if it’s displaying any signs of distress. This will be helpful to any emergency responders who might get involved later.

STEP 2 If the pet doesn’t appear to be in distress, and if there are businesses nearby, find a store employee or a security guard and ask them to make an announcement to try and find the car’s owner.

STEP 3 If all else fails, contact animal control or call your local emergency number to request help for the animal.

196 GIVE THE RIGHT MEDICINES

Is it safe to give drugs intended for human use to your pets? The answer is, “Maybe.” Some drugs will be toxic to pets, and human-size doses will be dangerous for smaller animals. Therefore, you should always consult your veterinarian for advice before giving them any medication. Here are some drugs that you might be able to use with your pet in an emergency.

DRUG

IBUPROFEN OR NAPROXEN

ANIMAL USE: N/A

CATS: Toxic at any dose

DOGS: Toxic at any dose

BUFFERED OR ENTERIC-COATED ASPIRIN

ANIMAL USE: Inflammation and pain

CATS: Unsafe

DOGS: OK

ACETAMINOPHEN (TYLENOL)

ANIMAL USE: Fever and pain

CATS: Fatal

DOGS: OK with proper dose^*

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (BENADRYL)

ANIMAL USE: Allergies and motion sickness

CATS: Injected

DOGS: OK

FAMOTIDINE (PEPCID AC), CIMETIDINE (TAGAMET HB), RANITIDINE (ZANTAC)

ANIMAL USE: Acid reflux, Helicobacter pylori infection, inflammatory bowel disease, canine parvovirus, ulcers

CATS: OK

DOGS: OK

DIMENHYDRINATE (DRAMAMINE)

ANIMAL USE: Motion sickness

CATS: OK

DOGS: OK

LOPERAMIDE (IMODIUM)

ANIMAL USE: Diarrhea

CATS: OK

DOGS: OK

BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE (KAOPECTATE)

ANIMAL USE: Diarrhea

CATS: Fatal

DOGS: OK

CETIRIZINE (ZYRTEC)

ANIMAL USE: Allergies

CATS: OK

DOGS: OK

LORATADINE (CLARITIN)

ANIMAL USE: Allergies

CATS: OK

DOGS: OK

AMOXICILLIN, AMPICILLIN, TETRACYCLINE

ANIMAL USE: Infection

CATS: OK

DOGS: OK

^* ask your vet

197 HANDLE AN INJURED PET

Pets—even the ones who are normally very docile and friendly—can become unpredictable and may bite or scratch you if they’re injured or sick. Here are some tips for handling a pet who needs medical help.

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE Keep your face far enough away from their mouth that you’re not an easy target for a bite.

MUZZLE THEM If your pet isn’t vomiting, muzzling them will allow you to more easily and safely handle them while taking them to the veterinarian for treatment.

WRAP THEM UP Take a towel or blanket and wrap them in it several times. Doing so keeps their legs tucked in and makes it easier to carry them. Some animals may also find this comforting.

CRATE THEM If your pet is crate trained, place them in their crate for transportation.

COVER THEM Use a towel to cover your pet’s head; this will often reduce their stress by reducing visual stimuli. Observe your pet and remove the towel if it makes them more nervous.

MOVE CAREFULLY When carrying or driving, do so with care so as to not to jostle or scare your pet.

LIFE SAFETY APP

DRUG REFERENCES

Drug reference applications are incredibly helpful tools for a wide variety of uses, including looking up a wealth of information on the condition that is being treated, information on both common and unusual side effects, dosing info, and standard pricing.

Pill identification tools help to identify any medications that are separated from their packaging. In an emergency situation, apps such as these can help you determine whether a certain medication is applicable to a given situation or if it might end up doing more harm than good.

Aside from disasters, a drug reference guide can be a useful tool to understand all of your own healthcare decisions or help form questions you might have for your doctor for your own ongoing care. As with all matters medical, you should be taking advice from a professional whenever reasonably possible, but these guides help you make informed decisions in extreme circumstances.

Of the two most popular app options, iTriage is the easier one to navigate and is designed for layperson use, while Epocrates is better suited to the needs of medical professionals.

SUGGESTED APPS

• iTriage

• Epocrates

198 GIVE A PET CPR

CPR for cats and dogs is similar to human CPR but, like any skill, it still requires training and practice to do effectively.

STEP 1 Open the animal’s mouth to make sure their airway is clear. If they are choking on an object, see if you can reach in with your fingers and carefully remove it. Be quick when doing so, to avoid being bitten. If the pet in question is unconscious and not breathing, you need to start CPR.

STEP 2 Lay your unconscious pet on their right side, lift the head to align with the neck, open the mouth, and then pull the tongue forward. Use some cloth, such as your shirtsleeve, to grab the tongue more easily. Look, listen, or feel for breathing. If there are no signs of breathing, start performing rescue breathing. Give four to five rescue breaths by firmly holding their snout and blowing just enough air though the nose for the chest to rise. For smaller dogs and cats, your mouth will go around both the mouth and nose.

STEP 3 Feel for a pulse in the femoral artery, high inside the thigh. If there is no pulse, start chest compressions. If possible, have someone help you with CPR as well as with transporting your pet to the vet.

STEP 4 For a dog, find the heart by bringing their left elbow back to their chest. Place the heel of your palm over the heart, intertwine your fingers, and lock your arms. Give 30 chest compressions at a rate of about 80–120 times per minute followed by two rescue breaths. Compress the chest about 2 to 3 inches (5–7.5 cm) for larger dogs and ½ to one 1 inch (1.25–2.5 cm) for small dogs and cats (squeeze using both hands around the chest in this case). Stop and check for a pulse after five cycles of compressions and rescue breaths.

STEP 5 Continue CPR until it becomes unsafe to continue for any reason or until you become too exhausted to continue, veterinary professionals take over care, or the animal regains a pulse.

199 RUN OFF A RACCOON

Raccoons can be found living in the crawl space under your house, in the chimney, up in your attic, or just sneaking in through your pet door to feast on your cat’s food. They can attack pets or even humans, and are known rabies carriers. Thankfully there are plenty of humane ways to shoo these furry bandits off, including with bright lights, loud music, and unpleasant scents such as cider vinegar placed in a bowl near places that they frequent around your home.

Next, seal any entrances they might use to get inside. If you encounter a raccoon in one of your rooms, don’t try to fight it or scare it away; simply lock up your pets in a safe area, close any doors to keep it out of the rest of the house, and open a window or door to the outside. Eventually it will leave on its own. If you’ve tried all these measures to no avail, you may need to trap and release the beast, or call in a wildlife removal service to do it for you.

200 KNOW WHEN TO GO TO THE VET

Since animals can’t talk, it’s hard to know just how sick they are. You’ll have to rely on your own experience with your pet to figure out what’s different about its behavior or health. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to contact your vet for more advice.

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing

• Discharge from the ears, eyes, nose, or other orifice

• Rapid weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

• Excessive groaning

• Excessive scratching or chewing

• Eye problems (pawing at eyes, squinting, etc.)

• Hot spots or infections?

• Limping

• Swelling or bloating

• Unusual odor

• Persistent vomiting

• Bloody stool or urine

• Continuous diarrhea or frequent urination

• Difficulty defecating or urinating

• Very dark and/or thick urine

201 TRANSPORT YOUR PET SAFELY

Unfortunately, ambulances for pets are rare. If you need to get your animal to the veterinarian, you’ll often have to do so yourself. For less urgent issues you can simply put the animal in a crate or, for a dog, (and the very rare cat) have them ride in the car as usual. If your animal is very sick or has suffered a traumatic injury, you’ll have to take care in transporting them. Avoid carrying animals that are sick or hurt in your arms; even pets that are normally docile may become aggressive when in pain or afraid.

STEP 1 Find a plywood board large enough to support your pet’s entire body. Consider buying a piece of plywood pre-cut to the right size just in case you ever need it.

STEP 2 Muzzle your pet for your own safety unless they are vomiting, coughing, or unconscious.

STEP 3 Small animals can be safely moved onto the board by two people. For larger pets, you’ll need three: one to hold the head, another for the shoulders, and a third for the hips. Coordinate a gentle slide up onto the board. Avoid lifting an injured animal on its own, as they may have spinal damage.

STEP 4 Cover the pet with a blanket to keep them warm and to treat for shock.

STEP 5 Using duct tape, strap the animal to the board. Be sure to wrap the tape all the way around the board to create a sturdy connection. You don’t want the blanket to come loose and spill your pet onto the ground.

STEP 6 Carefully lift and load your pet into your vehicle. If possible, have someone ride in the back to help keep them still and calm.

STEP 7 Drive slowly and carefully. It’s tempting to speed to the vet’s office as quickly as possible, but any jostling could further injure your pet.

202 AVOID A DOG ATTACK

If you’re confronted by an aggressive dog, here are some tactics for handling the situation.

STAY CALM Dogs will react less aggressively to you if you’re calm.

AVOID EYE CONTACT Dogs may see this behavior as challenging.

DON’T SMILE Bared teeth are usually an aggression signal among animals.

STAND STILL Even if the dog comes close, it’s safer to stand still than to run, which might trigger a predatory response to chase and attack.

DISTRACT THE DOG Offer the dog a stick or other object within reach to chew on. If you have any food, throw it nearby and see if the dog becomes distracted enough for you to get away.

BE ASSERTIVE If none of the quiet approaches is effective in deterring the dog, try commanding it in a deep, confident voice to “go home.”

GET UP If the dog seems likely to lunge for you, climb onto a parked car or dumpster.

LEAVE SLOWLY If the dog appears to lose interest, slowly and carefully leave the area.

CALL 911 If you have your phone, call your local emergency number to request help.

203 UNDERSTAND AGGRESSION

Why do dogs often act aggressively? Entire books have been written about this topic along with the multitude of factors and circumstances that can trigger aggression. Some of the most common causes are the perceived need to show their dominance over a rival and to protect their territory or pack members (which, to a dog, may include its human family).

Dogs may also become aggressive when guarding their food or favorite toys. As far as basic animal instincts, a dog who is in heat or trying to reach another dog in heat may get unusually aggressive. And it’s worth remembering that even domesticated dogs still have predatory instincts and may attack small animals or chase someone running from them.

Just like humans, dogs can also react aggressively to fear, frustration, or pain. If unable to escape a stressful situation, they may fight instead of fleeing, or lash out if frustrated by events. If hurt, they may react in an unpredictable fashion, including aggressively. Knowing all of these factors may help you assess whether an animal is likely to attack.

204 RECOGNIZE WARNING SIGNS

Once you know the conditions likely to trigger aggressive behavior in a dog, then you’ll want to observe a potentially threatening animal carefully to determine if it’s likely to attack. Dogs usually exhibit a set of escalating warning behaviors prior to attacking. The more warning signs you observe, the more cautious you should be around the animal.

Dogs bark in various ways to communicate, but a low, guttural bark is their way of giving a warning or threat. Likewise, growling or snarling are very strong indicators.

Body posture can be another useful indicator. Watch to see if its ears are pulled back, lying flat against the head, or if the dog becomes very still and rigid. They may also lunge forward or charge.

A dog’s mouth is one of its primary ways of interacting with the world, so it’s not always immediately easy to tell if you’re at risk of being bitten. A dog may use its mouth to gently grab someone in order to establish dominance without biting, or push or poke something with its muzzle [A]. If this escalates to light nips [B], get out of the situation before the next possible step of more serious bites causes marks or bruises or even serious injury.

205 FIGHT OFF AN ATTACKING DOG

If you’ve done everything that you can to avoid or get away from an aggressive dog, then you’re down to the last option: fight.

If you’re attacked, fight back by punching and kicking, along with yelling commands at the dog with significant force. Dog attacks can be deadly, and you should fight for your life with whatever means that you have available. If you happen to carry pepper spray, it can be effective against dogs.

Wrestle the dog using your full body weight to subdue them, and once the dog is subdued, call 911. Beware of the owner, as attacking their dog may create a conflict that can also escalate violently.

206 TEACH YOUR CHILD DOG SAFETY

Children should learn how to carefully approach and interact with strange dogs to reduce their chance of getting bitten. A few basics: Always ask permission to pet a dog; don’t tease dogs (or any animals); and do not disturb a dog with a litter of puppies, as she will be instinctively protective. If a strange dog approaches your child, they should stand still, be quiet, and avoid eye contact.

207 READ MSDS

Not really intended for consumers but still readily available online, a material safety data sheet (MSDS) describes the potential hazards of everything from everyday office supplies such as toner to household cleaners to the chemicals used in manufacturing. As a layperson, you can use an MSDS to become more informed about the products you use, as well as learning how to treat someone exposed to the product. This information can be especially useful during a major disaster in which access to regular medical care may be difficult or impossible.

The MSDS for each substance includes information on the item’s chemical composition, its level of toxicity, and potential health effects of exposure.

Other sections provide detailed guidelines on how to handle any accidents involving the chemical (such as spills, leaks, or explosions), and how to recognize the symptoms of overexposure.

There is also a set of first-aid and emergency response procedures with specific protocols for treating people, objects, or environments exposed to the substance.

208 MEET MR. YUK

These days, the average kid associates the image of a skull and crossbones more with pirates than with poison. Dr. Richard Moriarty, a pediatrician and founder of the Pittsburgh Poison Center, was concerned that the old symbol didn’t effectively communicate to kids that a substance is dangerous to eat or drink. He showed a range of colors to children in day care centers, and this “yucky” green was rated the least appealing. Mr. Yuk has been adopted as the official warning symbol by the National Poison Center Network.

If you have children in your home, place Mr. Yuk stickers on all containers of dangerous household chemicals, even those that are securely stored. Sit down with your children and explain what the sticker means. To request a free sheet of Mr. Yuk stickers, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:

Mr. Yuk

Pittsburgh Poison Center

200 Lothrop Street

PFG 01-01-01

Pittsburgh, PA 15213

209 READ THE FIRE DIAMOND

Have you ever noticed one of these placards on the outside of a building? It’s a quick reference to the hazards you’ll find inside. The NFPA 704 Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response, also known as the “fire diamond,” provides basic information for emergency personnel responding to a fire or spill and those planning for emergency response.

Each part of the diamond is color-coded to represent a different hazard, with a number representing its severity; the white diamond may contain a code indicating a specific hazard (see below for a list).

If you need to enter an area that’s marked with the fire diamond, note whether it has any 3s, 4s, or special hazard markings. If so, be extremely careful. Avoid the area entirely if you’re uncertain on how to safely proceed, especially if you notice any leaks, spills, odors, or gas.

COLORS

BLUE Acute, short-term health hazard

RED Flammable

YELLOW Instability or explosive danger

WHITE Special hazards

NUMBERS

0 No danger

1 Minor hazard

2 Moderate hazard

3 Serious hazard

4 Extreme hazard

CODES

OX Oxidizer (can react with heat and fuel to create fire)

W Reacts with water

SA Simple asphyxiant gas

COR Corrosive

ACID Acidic

ALK Alkaline

BIO Biological hazard

POI Poisonous

RA, RAD Radioactive

CYL, CRYO Cryogenic

210 DRIVE DEFENSIVELY

Driving is such a normal part of life that we tend to disregard just how dangerous it is. It doesn’t take that much for something to go terribly wrong, but there are concrete steps you can take to reduce risk. Here are a few.

ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS Especially if traffic conditions are heavy or you’re tired, don’t let yourself become distracted by eating, making phone calls, or messing with your car stereo. And, of course, never text while driving.

STAY ALERT Look past the car in front of you to get a heads-up on traffic conditions. Check out your blind spots and your rear view on a regular basis to maintain a relaxed 360-degree field of awareness of what’s going on around your vehicle.

CREATE DEFENSIVE SPACE Vehicles that are driving erratically or at unsafe speeds for road conditions, frequently making lane changes, or tailgating you, are a greater accident risk. Let them pass you, or slow down in order to give yourself plenty of time to respond to their erratic and dangerous driving.

CHECK INTERSECTIONS Intersections are a common place for accidents to occur. Drivers who aren’t paying close attention may simply start driving when the light turns green, and not everyone stops when the light turns red. Check both directions prior to entering an intersection to avoid an accident or a stressful close call.

FOLLOW SAFELY Follow the 3-second rule to establish a safe zone between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. If a vehicle drops into your space in front of you, simply slow down briefly to reestablish the 3-second following distance. If driving in bad weather conditions, you should extend the safe following distance to 5 seconds or more.

YIELD PROPERLY Do not trust that the other drivers see you or will follow the rules of the road. Even if you have the right of way, yield anyway. You’ll avoid an accident and make your driving experience less stressful.

211 CHARGE IT YOURSELF

To be as self-reliant as possible, consider carrying a portable battery jump-starter in your vehicle. These devices can deliver 400 to 1,700 amps of engine-cranking power, using a set of integrated jumper cables that connect directly with your car’s failed battery—no friendly stranger necessary. Some models include features such as built-in lights to illuminate your work area, battery-powered level gauges, air compressors, and 12-volt DC charging sockets that can power and recharge any important electronic devices such as your cell phone.

212 GET OUT OF A SKID

You may have no warning of a skid until you suddenly lose control and end up heading sideways down the highway. Here’s how to regain control.

STEP 1 Resist the temptation to hit the brakes. To steer out of the skid, you need to have tires rolling, not locked up.

STEP 2 It may seem counterintuitive, but turn the steering wheel into the direction of the skid (for example, if your car’s right side is moving forward, turn your wheel to the right). Do this gently without overreacting. If your wheels start to skid in the other direction, turn the steering wheel that way. Be ready to straighten the wheel as your vehicle returns to its normal course.

STEP 3 Apply very light pressure on the accelerator to help bring the vehicle back into position.

213 STEER WITH BLOWN TIRES

When a tire blows out, it will pull the vehicle in the direction of the flat. This is really scary and can cause you to lose control, but if you stay calm and know what to do, you can steer yourself to safety.

DON'T PANIC Fight the urge to overcorrect or to slam on the brakes, which will cause a skid.

SLOW DOWN Hold the steering wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, switch on your turn signal, and start moving toward the shoulder of the road.

SIGNAL Once you reach the shoulder, switch on your emergency flasher to warn approaching vehicles.

214 DEAL WITH BRAKE FAILURE

You press on the brake pedal and it goes to the floor without slowing the vehicle. Now what? Don’t turn off the ignition and remove the key; the steering column will lock. Leave your foot off the accelerator to slow down, and negotiate traffic and turns as best you can. If you’re going downhill and picking up speed, shift to a lower gear (even automatic transmissions give you this ability) and gradually apply the emergency brake. If there’s an uphill route, take it.

215 DRIVE SAFELY ON FLOODED ROADS

Every year, people lose their lives when their vehicles get washed away as they try to drive on flooded roads.

STUDY THE NUMBERS A measly 6 inches (15 cm) of water will cause most cars to lose control and possibly stall. Double that amount, and most cars just give up and float away. At 2 feet (60 cm) of running water, vehicles are at risk of being swept away (even trucks and four-wheel drives). If flood waters start swirling around your vehicle, abandon it—and save your life.

AVOID THE UNKNOWN Beneath the water, the pavement might be ripped away, leaving a hole that could swallow your vehicle. The rule for driving through water is easy to remember: If you can’t see the road surface or its line markings, take an alternate route.

216 TEND TO A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

Regardless of the specific details, getting into a car accident is unsettling. You’re likely to feel overwhelmed or jittery, which can make doing the normal after-accident steps harder. Make a copy of these instructions, and store them with your insurance and registration to make everything as easy as possible for you.

Get off the road Unless your vehicle is inoperable, or a police officer orders you to leave the vehicle in place, you should pull over to the roadside to a safe location. If that isn’t possible, use your hazard lights if they’re still functional.

Check for injury Check to see if anyone has been hurt. If so, call for an ambulance and the police.

Call the Police The police may not send an officer out to file a report for a minor accident, but you should still ask, and inform them if anyone involved appears agitated or hostile.

Call a Tow Truck Call for a tow truck for damaged vehicles.

Get Info Exchange information with others involved. Be sure to get:

• Driver’s license information of everyone involved.

• Insurance policy information.

• Make, model, color, and license plate numbers of vehicles involved.

• Driver and passenger names and contact information.

• Contact info for any eyewitnesses.

• Name, badge number, and police department of any officers taking reports or investigating the accident.

Take Photos Take photographs of the incident.

File a Claim Call your insurance company to file a claim.

217 SHOOT THE SCENE

One of the most important things that you can do at the scene of an accident is to take good pictures to document the incident. Doing so can help protect you from fraud and unfounded claims. Take as many photos as you can safely manage, from every angle.

First, get the big picture. Shoot the scene from far enough back that you can get everything in the shot, including skid marks, debris, and vehicles. You’ll want to get multiple angles, so shoot from each side, as well as the front and rear.

Get some close-ups as well. Take pictures of all damage to all of the involved vehicles. Also, shoot each vehicle from all four sides (even if some sides show no damage) close enough that the entire vehicle fills the frame.

If there are any skid marks, get pictures of the vehicle that caused them, as well as the entirety of the skid marks. If you’re not sure which vehicle caused the skid marks, take a picture of the skid marks with the accident in the background.

218 HELP A DOWNED RIDER

If you happen to be unlucky enough to be involved in an accident with a motorcyclist, or if you witness a downed rider there are a few things you should do while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.

If the motorcyclist is on the ground and injured, do not move them, and encourage them to remain still. Keep the rider’s head and neck immobile and in a stable, neutral position until medical help arrives to take over care.

Have others help by directing traffic, laying out flares, or putting on their hazards and using their vehicles to protect the accident site.

If the victim is breathing normally, leave their helmet on. Remove the helmet only if the victim’s airway is blocked or if they are not breathing.

219 STAY SAFE IN TRANSIT

Situational awareness is the key to safety when taking public transportation of all sorts. Stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t let yourself get lulled into zoning out and ignoring possible dangers. Here are some simple things you can do to increase your personal safety.

DON’T GO IT ALONE When waiting for a bus or train, stay in a central well-lit location with others nearby. After boarding, familiarize yourself with emergency buttons and exits, and ride near the driver or operator. Carry your cell phone at all times in case you need to call for help.

STAY ALERT Avoid falling asleep, and don’t listen to music or talk on the phone. Likewise, avoid continuously using your phone, as it distracts you. Take a break from using it every minute to reevaluate your surroundings.

GUARD YOUR BELONGINGS Don’t put your bags down on the seat next to you; keep them in your lap, under your arm, or between your feet. Avoid sitting right next to an exit door, as those seats are at higher risk for snatch-and-run thefts.

PROTECT YOURSELF Trust your instincts. Don’t board or disembark if you’re feeling unsafe. If someone bothers you or makes you uncomfortable, change seats, get off at the next stop, or change cars; notify the driver or operator if necessary. Consider carrying pepper spray or some other self-defense option.

220 HANDLE HASSLE DISCREETLY

Is someone acting shady on the platform? Are people drunk on your subway car? Is a hustler hassling people by the ticket machines? If you’re like most people, you won’t want to risk confrontation but would welcome a way to report the issue quickly, easily, and discreetly. Luckily, smartphone apps are being released for various public transit systems that let you do just that. Check with your local public transit agency website or the app store for your smartphone to see if your area has released an app yet. Transit systems that have already implemented such a feature include Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

221 DON’T BE A BYSTANDER

The bystander effect describes the social and psychological phenomenon in which many bystanders observe an incident or are aware of a crime but no one acts to help the victim or even call for help. The more bystanders, the lower the chance anyone will do anything to help. Often this is because each person assumes that someone else is handling the problem. Sometimes they even manage to convince themselves that what’s going on is no big deal, that the victim doesn’t need any help. Everyone is potentially susceptible to this effect, but you can inoculate yourself to some extent.

BE PREPARED TO HELP By making the decision that you will step up to help if needed, you’ll be primed to act if you should encounter such a circumstance (see item 38).

STAY AWARE Turn your awareness up to Orange, or even Red if the circumstance warrants it (see item 14). Carefully observe to ensure you have a clear and accurate understanding of what’s happening. Do so discreetly and keep a 360-degree awareness to avoid being pulled into the incident.

CALL FOR HELP See if anyone is taking action to call for help. If not, do so yourself or ask someone to call for you. Take photos of participants if you can do so safely.

INTERVENE If you think you can make a difference, and you feel your safety isn’t at risk, try yelling to stop the incident. If you’re with a group of people, consider acting as a group to physically intervene.

ASSIST AFTERWARD Check on any victims to make sure they know help is on the way. Provide first aid if needed.

LIFE SAFETY APP

GPS

These days there are lots of options for GPS navigation. It’s pretty common for people to have given up paper maps entirely in favor of their car’s built-in GPS or a smartphone app. Regardless of whether you walk, drive, or use mass transit, consider upgrading your device to a GPS app that includes downloaded maps. While the basic mapping app the comes with your smart phone for free is perfectly fine for everyday use, after a natural disaster or other disruptive event you might lose your Internet or cell connection.

After an evacuation or while trying to avoid problem spots, you might find yourself traveling through or even stranded in an unfamiliar area with spotty data coverage and few resources. An app with downloaded maps will work even when your phone is totally offline, which can be a lifesaver. Even in a non-emergency situation you may find that your phone’s basic mapping app doesn’t work in rural or remote areas. When the signal drops just as you turn onto a winding dirt road in the middle of nowhere, it’s nice to know that you have a backup.

SUGGESTED APPS

• NAVIGON USA

• Magellan RoadMate USA

• Garmin USA

• TomTom U.S.& Canada

222 SURVIVE A SINKING SHIP

Whether you’re commuting by ferry or on a cruise vacation, there’s always the risk that your ship might sink. Luckily, large vessels don’t sink quickly under most circumstances, giving you and the crew plenty of time to safely evacuate. But being prepared will improve your odds further. Follow these tactics to make abandoning ship as safe as possible.

ORIENT YOURSELF Get familiar with the layout of the ship, the closest lifeboats, and know where more than one exit is—your first choice may be underwater!  

PACK A GO BAG Just as you already have done for your home or car, keep a small bag with essential items, including a whistle and a waterproof flashlight ready just in case you have to evacuate quickly.

LISTEN FOR A SIGN The international evacuation signal is seven short horn blasts followed by one long one. The crew may also use the intercom system to make any important announcements. If you can’t hear instructions, head to an open deck level. Don’t linger in the central or lower decks.

TAKE THE STAIRS Don’t use an elevator unless there are no other options for evacuating safely. Electrical equipment may short out, or the ship’s entire electrical system may fail, leaving you stranded inside an elevator at a time when rescue is unlikely.

LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP If you’re unable to board a lifeboat, look for a life preserver. Toss it into the water before you jump in after it. Look before you jump, as there may be people, lifeboats, debris, fire, or propellers in the water below that you could hit upon impact. Remember to jump feet first.

GET SOME DISTANCE Swim away from the ship as soon as you hit water. Falling debris and the vacuum effect created as the ship goes down can suck you under.

FIGHT BACK If in the water, kick and punch anything that brushes you from below. It might just be some debris from the ship, but why take the chance? It could be a shark, and striking it may be enough to deter an attack.

223 GET THROUGH A PLANE CRASH

If you’re not the pilot, you may feel like there isn’t much you can do to improve your chances of surviving a plane crash. However, statistics and crash investigations show that you can improve your chances by using these tactics.

DRESS RIGHT Whenever you fly, wear practical clothing including a top with long sleeves, pants made of natural materials, and sturdy shoes. Proper clothing will help you to evacuate quickly and can protect you from sharp metal or flash burns, or if you have to run over burning jet fuel.

SIT TIGHT Sitting close to an exit gives you an advantage in an emergency evacuation. While every single crash is different, research has found that being within five rows of an exit gave passengers a higher chance of survival in some crashes. To improve your odds, sit in an aisle seat instead of next to the window. Crash statistics show that sitting in the back of a plane gives you higher odds of survival than in the front.

GET BRIEFED Every plane is different; listen to the safety briefing, read the safety card, and practice the brace position. During a crash you won’t have time to review this material.

BUCKLE UP Keep your seat belt snugly buckled low on your hips when sitting in your seat. This will reduce kinetic injuries during impact as well as lower the risk of internal abdominal injuries.

KEEP ALERT Remain situationally aware during the first 3 minutes and the last 8 minutes of a flight, when there is the highest probability of a crash taking place. Keep your shoes on to give you an edge if you need to exit quickly.

INFLATE OUTSIDE Don’t inflate your life vest until you’re outside the cabin. If you do so while the plane is filling with water, you may get trapped instead of being able to swim out.

EXIT FAST In the event of fire, stay as low as you can and get out as quickly as possible. Your chances of survival are greatest if you can evacuate within 90 seconds.

GET SOME DISTANCE After evacuating from the plane, get as far away as reasonably possible in case of explosion. If the crash happens in a remote area, stay near the plane while awaiting rescue.

LIFE SAFETY APP

CLOUD STORAGE

One key recommendation you should take away from this book is how crucial it is that you store all of your important documents safely. You should keep original physical copies of things like birth certificates, social security cards, bank documents, and other key items in a secure location, and a full set of duplicate photocopies in a second location, in case the first is destroyed or inaccessible in an emergency.

Given how easy it is to scan documents into PDF files these days, consider installing a cloud storage app on your smartphone so that you’ll have easy access to all of your important files even if you’re away from home or don’t have access to the backup copies. If you’re concerned about cloud security, you can use two-factor authentication to help keep your data more secure than it would be with just a password. There are many different options available, but three popular ones with free storage options are Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box.

SUGGESTED APPS

• Dropbox

• Google Drive

• Box for iPhone and iPad

224 BUCKET UP

If the water and power go out while you’re sheltering in place, that means your toilet won’t work. If you don’t have an outhouse, you’ll need a sanitary way to easily manage human waste.

Buy thick plastic trash bags, a small bag of kitty litter, some toilet paper, duct tape, a permanent marker, disposable gloves, hand sanitizer, and a 5-gallon (19-liter) painter’s bucket. (Also, you can optionally buy a special toilet seat from disaster supply stores that fits on the bucket.) Place all of the supplies inside the bucket except one of the plastic bags. Seal the bucket and place it into the plastic bag to keep moisture out, and keep it in storage.

When you need to use the bucket, double-bag the inside, and sprinkle kitty litter generously after each use. When the bucket is about half full, seal the inner bag with a knot, then tie the outer bag with another knot, then finally seal the knot with duct tape and write “Human Waste” on the duct tape with the marker. Place bags someplace out of the way, preferably out of direct sunlight. Check local regulations on how to properly dispose of waste after services are restored.

225 ADDRESS BOOK IT

Having copies of your family disaster and communication plans on your smartphone can be useful when you need to get out of town quickly or have to contact your out-of-town emergency family contact pronto. The only thing is, you don’t want to have to spend valuable time scrolling for that information in different places. Program all information in your phone’s address book with an entry name like “Emergency Family Contact” or “Evacuation Destination” to make finding all the relevant information as fast and easy as possible. Include map links, notes, and other important data in the entry as well and you’ll be good to go.

226 MAKE A DATE TO PREPARE

If you find the idea of comprehensive disaster preparedness too overwhelming or time-consuming, an easy way to make it manageable is to space the different tasks throughout the year so that everything gets done and checked annually. On the first of each month, check this handy calendar and schedule the month’s activities with your family.

MONTH

JANUARY

COMMUNICATION PLAN

KEY TASK: Discuss and create plans with your household

REVIEW: Review plans with everyone in the household

FEBRUARY

WATER SUPPLY

KEY TASK: Review normal water supply, create a 72-hour disaster supply

REVIEW: Replace water supply as needed

MARCH

FOOD SUPPLY

KEY TASK: Review pantry, establish a 72-hour disaster food supply

REVIEW: Replace food supply as needed

APRIL

EVACUATION ROUTES

KEY TASK: Determine two escape routes from your house and the region

REVIEW Review plans with everyone in the household

MAY

FIRST AID KIT

KEY TASK: Gather necessary supplies

REVIEW: Review kit; replace used supplies; add other supplies if needed

JUNE

DOCUMENTS AND KEYS

KEY TASK: Make copies of important documents and keys

REVIEW: Review keys and documents; update or replace if needed

JULY

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS

KEY TASK: Check current setup; purchase any needed items to complete the kit

REVIEW: Replace any missing items

AUGUST

SANITATION AND HYGIENE

KEY TASK: Gather supplies in a large waterproof container

REVIEW: Replace any expired items

SEPTEMBER

MEDICINE KIT

KEY TASK: Review everyone’s prescription needs; create a disaster backup supply

REVIEW: Rotate the backup supply before medications expire

OCTOBER

CLOTHING AND BEDDING

KEY TASK: Pack clothing (options for warm, wet, and cold weather) and bedding for each person

REVIEW: Ensure clothes still fit; inspect for damage and wash items if needed

NOVEMBER

HOME HAZARDS

KEY TASK: Identify hazards in and outside home; mitigate if possible

REVIEW: Review existing hazards; search for new ones

DECEMBER

PET EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

KEY TASK: Establish a 72-hour food supply

REVIEW: Replace supplies and food as needed