Keep a whistle in each bedroom to awaken household members in case of fire. Check electrical outlets. Do not overload outlets. Have a collapsible ladder on each upper floor of your house. Consider installing home sprinklers.
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning.
It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away. Families can and do cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility. Learn more about Family Disaster Plans by contacting the Tidewater Chapter Red Cross .