Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. Would you know what to do if you suddenly had no electricity, gas, water or telephone service? Take time now to plan for an emergency, so you’ll be ready if the unexpected happens.

Tip: Create a new phone number in your cell phone book with the codeword “ICE”. Enter the phone number of the person you want contacted in an emergency. Emergency workers commonly look for ICE when attempting to find a contact person to call for you when you are unable to tell them on your own.

Make A Kit

Be prepared by keeping the following disaster supply kits on hand. Supplies should be kept in easy-to-carry, water resistant containers. Make sure everyone in your family knows where the kits are kept. See Sutter Health's Personal Preparedness Guidelines (PDF) for details on what to include in each kit.

• First aid kit
• Tool kit
• Supplies
• Sanitation
• Clothing and bedding
• Special needs
• Baby kit
• Kid's activity kit
• Pet supply kit
• Car kit
• Important family documents

Make A Plan

Having a plan, and making sure everyone in your family knows what to do, is vital. Following is a list of key plans. See Sutter Health's Personal Preparedness Guidelines (PDF) for details on each type of plan.

• Family communication plan (medical information, contact numbers and an emergency meeting place for your family during a disaster)
• Shelter-in-place plan (how your family will cope if required to stay in your home during a disaster)
• Evacuation plan (how your family will prepare to leave your home on short notice)
• School and work plan (places your family can meet during a disaster if you cannot meet at home)
• Neighborhood / apartment plan (talking with your neighbors in advance of a disaster and sharing plans))

Be Informed

How will you stay informed? The following guidelines will help protect you and your family during a disaster.

• Know trusted resources for information
• Remain calm
• Follow directions given by Responders
• Know how to turn off your utilities
• Take a first aid and CPR class
• Learn how to use a fire extinguisher

Additional Resources

For more information on how to prepare for emergencies, utilize these additional resources.

• Sutter Health personal preparedness guidelines
• The American Red Cross
• Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Department of Homeland Security - Ready America