Do you and your family know what to do in an emergency? Advanced planning can help.

 

An emergency situation can include anything from weather events such as tornadoes, ice storms and floods, to household chemical accidents - or even worldwide pandemic, said Gina Peek, interim associate dean and Oklahoma State University Extension housing and consumer specialist.

 

"A great place to start is by making a family emergency plan and having everyone practice until they know what to do and where to go," Peek said. "It's also a good idea to assemble an emergency kit."

 

The kit should include:

• Nonperishable foods
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Bottled water
• Change of clothes
• Weather radio
• Extra batteries
• Battery-operated phone charger
• List of important phone numbers, including your insurance company

 

Other things a family might need include pet food, diapers or medications. In addition to having an emergency kit ready to go, Peek also suggests learning some general safety skills that could come in handy.

 

"Emergency situations can arise quickly and knowing some safety skills could really make a difference," she said. "Once again, planning ahead, keeping a level head and knowing what to do can make a big difference."

 

General safety skills include:

• General first aid and CPR
• Using a fire extinguisher
• How to shut off utilities

 

Check with the American Red Cross for classes offering CPR training. Courses are taught by certified instructors. Contact the local fire department for tips on correctly using a fire extinguisher. Every home should have at least one up-to-date fire extinguisher.

 

Take some time to locate the natural gas meter, water meter and the electrical circuit box. Gas meters come in several configurations, each with different shut-off processes. Families should contact the local gas company for guidance on how to turn off service in an emergency. Once service is shut off, only the utility can turn in back on. After locating the shut-off value for the water line, make sure other family members know how to turn off the water main.

 

"Emergency situations can be scary and hectic. Knowing what to do ahead of time can help everyone through these situations," Peek said.