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Sixteen week Emergency Preparedness Plan

This 16 Week Preparation Program is intended to help everyone prepare as a “family” for emergencies before they happen. We are preparing for inevitable change while we also offer our prayers and energy to mitigate the disruption.

At the end of this program you and your family will ideally end up with a comprehensive plan and the tools required to handle an emergency comfortably.

WEEK 1
Groceries list
  • 2 gallons water for each household member
  • 2 jar peanut butter
  • 2 large cans juice for each household member
  • 2 cans vegetables or stew for each household member
  • 2 cans stew or ready-to-eat soup(not concentrated) for each household member
  • 3 Cans Protein Drinks for each household member
  • Hand-operated can opener
  • Let each family member choose one favorite (non-perishable) food to include in kit.

  • For those who have pets and small children:
  • 1 week supply of Pet food
  • 1 week supply of Diapers
  • 1 week supply of Baby food
  • 1 week supply of Formula
  • Permanent marking pen

To do list

  • Date perishable supplies using marking pen.
  • If possible, set aside at least $20 in small bills each week in a safe place.
  • Contact your Satsang Coordinator for Disaster Planning to be included in the plan being developed for your area.
  • Complete the Emergency Preparedness Personal Information Form (see Attachment 1) and make a list of area devotees.
  • How does your Satsang communicate? Develop a method of connection that includes everyone (phone tree, e-mails, list-serv, meetings).
  • Go to the web site www.abag.org (Association of Bay Area Governments) or call your local Office of Emergency Services. Find out what kinds of disasters can happen in your area. (Tip: One member of your Satsang can do this and share the information with everyone else).
  • Identify an accessible place to store your disaster supplies.

For the Spirit (for all weeks)

  • Spend a few minutes praying for world peace. Suggestion: chant the prayer " Lokaha Samasthaha Sukhino Bhavantu". Amma always stresses on the power of prayer.
  • Meditation - suggestion: Learn the Meditation technique prescribed by Amma.
  • Chant your mantra.
WEEK 2
Hardware list
  • 32 gal garbage can or large sturdy storage box to keep disaster supplies
  • 1 flashlight with alkaline batteries for each family member over 6 years and one for each car
  • Extra flashlight batteries and bulbs
  • Bic lighter and Matches in waterproof container
  • Put supplies into garbage can.

To do list ( For those who have children).

  • If you have children, go to http://www.fema.gov/kids/ready.htm and together find some age appropriate way that they can participate in the family preparation.
  • Check with child's day care center or school to find out about their disaster plans.
  • Put up to date photos of each child in your emergency kit in case you get separated
  • Family discussion. Review family meeting places, contacts and plans with children. Allow them time to express their feelings and ask questions. Ask about what they understand about the school plan.
  • Prepare special Children's Personal Information Card.
  • Download the special needs request form on the right for any near and dear ones or others in your community who will need special needs.
WEEK 3
Drug store list
  • Antacid (for stomach upset)
  • Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
  • Stool softeners
  • Kleenex
  • Feminine hygiene supplies
  • Extra plastic baby bottles
  • Gather extra medications and prescriptions, mark them "for emergency use."
  • 1 week Prescription Medications (be sure to note expiration date and rotate medications so they are not wasted.)

To do list (Remain connected with family members and friends).

  • Make an arrangement with one out-of-state or out-of-area contact and one local friend or relative for family members to call if separated by disaster (it is often easier to call out-of-state than within the affected area). Note: If you do not have an out of state contact talk to other Satsang members about using their connection.
  • Share this information with your family so they know whom to call. Have each family member carry these phone numbers with them.
  • Obtain a map of the area for each car. (AAA members can each probably get several free maps to share with others.)
WEEK 4
Hardware list
  • Signal flares
  • 3 - 7 Light Sticks for each household member
  • Compass
  • Child-proof latches or other fasteners for your cupboards
  • Wrench(es) needed to turn off utilities
  • A-B-C fire extinguisher( If you have one make sure it has been serviced within the past 2 years.)

To do list (very important).

  • Learn how to turn off the water, gas and electricity at main switches. Attach necessary tools near gas and water shut-off valves. Remember to turn off the utilities only if you suspect the lines are damaged or if you are instructed to do so. If you turn the gas off, you will need a professional to turn it back on.
  • Create a personal support network of neighbors and friends who can help you and your family if you are separated or unable to get home.
  • Give copies of the following lists to your network: emergency information list, contact information for various times of day.
WEEK 5
Pet Supply Store - ( For those with Pets)
  • Extra harness, leash, and/or carrier
  • ID tags with your contact information for all pets
  • 1 week supply of food for all pets (if not bought in week 1)
  • 2 - 5 gal water for each pet
  • From your veterinarian obtain current vaccinations and medical records of your animal(s)
  • 2 weeks Medications (be sure to note expiration date and rotate medications so they are not wasted.)

To do list (Focus on Pets).

  • Develop an Emergency Pet Care Plan in case of disaster. Visit web sitewww.hsus.org (Humane Society of the US) for valuable information
  • Identify pet friendly hotels or a friend or relative where you can go with your pets
  • Make copies of all pet vaccination records and put them in your disaster supplies kit.
  • Put extra animal harness, leash and identification tag(s) in your disaster supplies kit
  • Take photos of your pets and put in home disaster kit and evacuation kits.
WEEK6
Camping supplies
  • 1 Mylar blanket for each family member
  • Camping or utility knife for each car kit.
  • 1 Back pack for evacuation kits or each adult and child over
  • 1 Bottle water purification pills for each car kit
  • 3 Hand and Foot warmers for each family member

To do list

  • Install latches on cupboards and secure moveable objects (Arrange for someone to help you if you can’t do this alone.)
  • Put together an Evacuation Backpack for each adult and older child. (Satsang members may want to contribute extra supplies to share such as samples and hotel soaps.)
  • Put a backpack in each car for adults with cars and next to evacuation exits for children.
  • Continue adding items to backpack as items are acquired.
  • Pick two meeting places: a place near your home in case of fire and a place outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home after a disaster.
WEEK7
Groceries list
  • 2 gallons water for each household member
  • 1 jar honey or jam
  • 1 box protein bars (something that everyone has tried and likes)
  • 2 cans stew or ready-to-eat soup (not concentrated) for each household member
  • 1 Box of Crackers
  • 1 roll toilet paper for each household member

To do list

  • Date perishable items
WEEK 8
FIRST AID SUPPLIES
  • First Aid Instruction Book
  • Sunscreen
  • Gauze pads
  • Sterile roller bandages
  • Antidiarrheal medication
  • Rubbing alcohol, Antiseptic
  • Syrup of ipecac and activated charcoal
  • Disinfectant (Betadine or Hydrogen Peroxide)
  • Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
  • Adhesive tape
  • Latex gloves
  • Extra hearing aid batteries

To do list

  • If possible, put at least $20 in small bills aside in a safe place.
  • Draw a floor plan of your home, room or apartment. Mark two escape routes from each room and make sure your windows, sliding glass doors and doorways are cleared of clutter and furniture. Know where your emergency supplies are located such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, collapsible ladders, earthquake kits and first aid kits
  • Practice an earthquake drill and other pertinent disaster drills for your area (tornado, fire, etc.) with your family and with your support network
  • Go to www.redcross.org and find the Red Cross Chapter nearest your home. Make a reservation to take the Red Cross Standard First Aid Class (which includes CPR)
WEEK 9
Additional Grocery list
  • 2 gallons water for each household member
  • 3 cans of protein drink for each family member
  • 1 box quick energy snacks
  • 2 cans vegetables for each household member
  • 2 cans fruit for each household member
  • 2 large cans juice for each household member
  • 2 cans stew or ready-to-eat soup (not concentrated) for each household member
  • Household chlorine bleach
  • 1 box heavy-duty garbage bags with ties
  • Large and small plastic Ziploc food bags

To do list (Focus on Pets).

  • Store a roll of quarters for emergency phone calls
  • Go on a hunt with your family to find a pay phone that is close to your home. (Pay phones are often some of the first phones to be restored after the system shuts down.)
  • Do the Fire Safety Hazard Hunt.
  • Test your smoke detector(s). Replace the battery in each detector that does not work.
WEEK 10
Additional First Aid Supplies
  • Scissors
  • Tongue blades
  • Medicine dropper
  • Sewing kit
  • Safety Pins
  • Bandaids (large box assorted)
  • Tweezers
  • Thermometer
  • Liquid antibacterial hand soap
  • Disposable hand wipes
  • Petroleum jelly or other lubricant
  • Extra eyeglasses (use last prescription or drugstore glasses if necessary)
  • Eye drops
  • Contact lens case, cleansing solution, eye moisture drops
  • Hypodermic Needles

To do list

  • Place a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight by everyone's bed so they are handy in an emergency.
  • If possible, put at least $20 in small bills aside in a safe place.
  • Find out about your Workplace Disaster Plan
  • Look into a Medical Power of Attorney for everyone in your household
    For more information read here or for California only here
WEEK 11
Additional Grocery list
  • 1 large can of milk or carton of soy milk for each family member
  • 2 gallons water for each household member
  • 1 box whole wheat crackers
  • Assorted plastic containers with lids Granola / Dry cereal
  • 1 box protein bars (something that everyone has tried and likes)
  • Dried fruit/nuts
  • Comfort foods (such as cookies, candy bars)
  • 2 rolls Paper Towels
  • Liquid dish soap (also dishpan if you have a dishwasher, because it won't work if there is no electricity)

To do list

  • Go to the web site and take the Home Quake Safety Test
  • Do a Home Hazard Hunt for Earthquakes with your family and make necessary changes
  • Properly dispose of any toxic chemical household, garden, and automotive supplies that are not essential
  • Replace as many toxic chemicals as possible in your home with non-toxic, eco-friendly alternatives
WEEK 12
Hardware Store list
  • Waterproof portable plastic container (with lid) for important papers
  • Battery-powered radio (preferably with hand crank charging) and extra batteries
  • Heavy cotton or hemp rope Whistle for each back pack
  • Pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • Hammer
  • Crow bar
  • Perforated metal tape (sometimes called plumber's tape or strap iron)

To do list ( VERY IMPORTANT)

  • Arrange to have your water heater strapped to wall studs using perforated metal tape.
  • Begin gathering Emergency Documents, lists and photocopies of important papers, and store safely
WEEK 13
Drug Store list
  • 2 disposable cameras (to photograph damage for insurance)
  • Plastic wrap
  • Aluminum foil
  • 1 box quick energy snacks
  • 1 package eating utensils
  • 1 package paper cups and plates
  • Denture care items

To do list

  • Review your insurance coverages with your agent to be sure you are covered for the disasters that may occur in your area.
  • Obtain additional coverage, as needed. Visit United Policyholders at http://www.unitedpolicyholders.org/ for tips on understanding your policy.
    Note:
    Earthquakes and floods are not covered under normal Home Insurance Policies.
WEEK 14
Hardware Store list
  • Work gloves
  • Safety goggles
  • Disposable dust masks
  • Plastic Sheeting to seal windows and doors for Sheltering in Place
  • Duct Tape Also, if needed:
  • Purchase an emergency escape ladder for upper story windows, and make sure all household members know where it is and how to use it.
  • Patch kit and can of seal-in-air product for the tires of bicycles if you have them To do
  • If possible, put at least $20 in small bills aside in a safe place.

To do list

  • Read Instructions for Sheltering in Place.Make a plan with your family and choose the area of your home where you will go
  • Cut plastic sheeting to cover openings (doors, windows, vents) of chosen area Keep tape, plastic and other supplies in the area you will go to.
WEEK15
Hardware Store list
  • Double-sided tape or hook-and-loop fasteners (such as Velcro) to secure moveable objects
  • Plastic bucket with tight lid
  • Plastic sheeting or tarp to keep things dry or clean

To do list

  • Arrange for a friend or neighbor to help your children and/or pets if you are not able to respond or are at work.
  • Find out if there is a neighborhood safety organization in your area and join it.
  • Contact your city Office of Emergency Services and find out about CERT Training (Community Emergency Response Team).
  • (Note: one person can get this information and share it with everyone.) Try to arrange for at least one member of your Satsang to take this training.
WEEK 16
Complete the Grocery Store list
  • 1 Large Bag Kitty Litter to clean spills and for sanitation
  • 3 cans of protein drink for each family member
  • 2 gallons of water for each car 1 box facial tissue
  • 1 Box Graham Crackers
  • 1 roll toilet paper for each household member
  • 2 rolls Paper Towels

To do list

  • If possible, put at least $20 in small bills aside in a safe place. How much do you have saved now? Continue putting the same amount aside weekly for the next 4 months.
  • Date perishable supplies using marking pen
  • Put water in the trunk of each car.
  • Develop a disaster supplies kit for each car or van in your household.
  • VERY IMPORTANT: Review previous weeks and complete or initiate any unfinished tasks.

 

 

 

Information form 1- download pdf

Information form 2 - download pdf

Information form 3 - Download pdf

Information form 4 - Download pdf