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S.A.F.E. Plan

The 10 S.A.F.E. (Strategic Action for Emergencies) Steps for Survival

1. Formulate a working plan for your family using the American Red Cross brochures entitled, “Your Family Disaster Plan” and “Emergency Preparedness Checklist” as a guide. These brochures may be obtained by telephoning the Riverside County Office of Emergency Services at (951) 955-4700. Include a home evacuation plan, with a floor plan, that each family member can readily follow should it become necessary to leave if there is a power outage.
2. Show family members how to turn off the gas, electricity and water at the main switches or valves, if necessary. Place an adjustable wrench near the gas meter for easy access.
3. Prepare and distribute family member id cards with emergency information and an out of area family member telephone number. Be sure to include special medications, health problems, ect. so that emergency personnel will know what special precautions must be taken with that family member.
4. Put family records and other valuable possessions into a safe deposit box in a local financial institution, or place them in a home safe.
5. Take a basic First-Aid and CPR, AED course.
6. Prepare a Disaster Supplies Kit. Remember you must have a minimum of 1 gallon of water per person per day. Don’t forget food for your pets and any medications they must take.
7. Check your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers annually to ensure they are working properly.
8. Do a home hazard hunt using the American Red Cross Emergency Preparedness Check List guide.
9. Get to know your neighbors, because in a disaster or emergency you will be somewhat dependant upon each other.
10. Organize or join a Neighborhood Watch Group. The greater number of participants, the greater opportunity for survival.

REMEMBER - IF DISASTER STRIKES REMAIN CALM AND PATIENT. PUT YOUR PLAN INTO MOTION.

• GIVE FIRST AID AND GET HELP FOR THE SERIOUSLY INJURED, IF POSSIBLE.
• LISTEN TO YOUR BATTERY POWERED RATION FOR SPECIAL BULLETINS. CHECK FOR DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME.
• USE ONLY FLASHLIGHTS! NEVER LIGHT A MATCH! CHECK FOR FIRES OR OTHER HAZARDS!
• SECURE YOUR PETS IN A SAFE AREA WITH FOOD AND WATER. DO NOT PUT THEM INTO THE GARAGE!

YOU MUST BE PREPARED TO HELP YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY FOR A MINIMUM OF 72-96 HOURS BEFORE PROFESSIONAL HELP ARRIVES.