THE FIRST THREE DAYS AFTER AN EMERGENCY
Local officials and relief workers will respond after a disaster, but they may not be able to reach everyone right away. That's why it's critical to be prepared to survive on your own for a minimum of three days in the event of an emergency. This may mean providing your own shelter, food, water, first-aid, sanitation and other basic needs.
WHY PREPARE?
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning, anytime or anywhere. Would you know what to do if it happened today?
- Even though you may not be able to control a disaster or stop it from happening, you do have control over how you will respond to one.
- Protecting yourself and your family in an emergency requires planning. Being prepared will not only help you respond effectively in a dangerous situation, but it can also help you to lessen the impact of a disaster, and sometimes even avoid the danger completely.
- Remember, local responders may not be able to reach you immediately, or they may need to focus their efforts elsewhere. Your ability to be self-sufficient may be a matter of survival for you and your family. Don’t wait for help that may not be available or may come too late. Take control of your own safety — it can save your life!
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO START
Ready to begin your emergency planning? The following are important preparations you should start making immediately:
