Before A Disaster...
- Complete an American Red Cross Standard First Aid Course. Learn basic search and rescue procedures.
- Identify the safe spots in each room of your house and teach family members to find a safe spot when an earthquake strikes.
- Identify the escape routes in each room of your house and teach family members to use these in the event of a fire.
- Determine the procedures you will use to locate family members who have been trapped in the house following a major disaster.
- Frequently review search and rescue procedures (include this in the quarterly preparedness activities scheduled by the Family Preparedness Coordinator).
After A Disaster...
- If you evacuate your house following a major disaster, count heads and account to the Family Preparedness Coordinator for each member of the family.
- If everyone is accounted for, post the "OK" sign for your Neighborhood Search and Rescue Team.
- If everyone is not accounted for, and you suspect they are trapped in the house, post the "HELP" sign for your Neighborhood Search and Rescue Team.
- Remember that your safety comes first. If you determine that you can safely enter your home and rescue a trapped family member, go ahead and do so cautiously. If you determine that you will need neighborhood help, wait for the Neighborhood Search and Rescue Team to arrive. In the meantime, try to determine the physical condition of the family member who is trapped.
Go back to the Family Council page
Family Preparedness Coordinator
Family Communications Monitor
Family First Aid Coordinator
Family Safety and Security Coordinator
Family Damage Assessment Coordinator
Family Sheltering and Special Needs Coordinator
