Right after the emergency, you may be confused or disoriented. Stay calm and remember the following procedures:
- Check yourself and others for injuries.
- Give first aid to people who are injured or trapped. Take care of life-threatening situations first. Get help if necessary.
- Confine or secure pets
- Get your emergency survival kit (first aid kit should be with it)
- Listen to the radio for information and instructions
- Check on your neighbours, especially the elderly or people with disabilities
- Don’t use the telephone unless it is an absolute emergency
- If possible, put on sturdy shoes and protective clothing to help prevent injury from debris, especially broken glass
- Check for damage to your home remembering the following points:
- use a flashlight – don’t light matches or turn on light switches
- check for fires, fire hazards or other household hazards
- sniff for gas leaks starting at your water heater; if you smell gas, turn off the main gas valve, open windows and get everyone outside quickly
- if you suspect it is unsafe, leave and do not re-enter
- do not shut off utilities unless they are damaged
- clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids immediately; wear protective clothing
- for major spills or leaks, call in professional help