Introduction
We have Emergency Plans in place. They are vital in emergencies. Emergency Plans are a proactive measure in reducing the likelihood and impacts of an emergency.
To be prepared for emergencies, you should find out:
- How to turn off your home’s water, gas and electricity supplies.
- The emergency procedures at your workplace.
- The emergency procedures at your child’s school.
- How you’ll contact your family.
- If any elderly or vulnerable neighbours will need your help.
- How you’ll tune into local radio stations.
- Useful phone numbers.
- Where you’d go, and stay, if you were asked to evacuate.
Have a CLEAR plan. This will help you to respond effectively and recover quickly:
- Check – always check the radio, TV, internet and social media for weather warnings and news. Reliable local radio stations include BBC Newcastle (FM 95.4 MHz) and Capital North East (FM 106.4 MHz). When using social media look for verified accounts which are official sources of information. Useful accounts include local emergency services, councils, the Met Office and the Environment Agency.
- List – make a list of important information. Include medication that you take, important phone numbers, and insurance policy details. Keep important documents such as your passport and birth certificate in a safe place. Store important computer information on an external storage device. Keep all of these in one accessible place.
- Emergency Bag – create a small emergency bag that you can carry. Keep it in an accessible place. Make sure it has the things you need to stay away from home for a few days. This could include toiletries, sanitary supplies, medication, a first aid kit, a wind-up radio, a torch, cash, bank cards, essential keys, bottled water, ready-to-eat food, important documents, warm waterproof clothing and mobile phones.
- Act – if the danger is outside, STAY IN and TUNE IN. Stay inside until you are advised otherwise. Listen to the local media for updates. If the danger is inside or you’re told to evacuate, STAY OUT. If it’s safe to do so, take essential items (e.g., your emergency bag) and turn off your electricity, gas and water supplies. Unplug your appliances and lock all doors and windows. Once you’re outside, go to a safe place and tune into the media for updates.
- Recover – having a CLEAR plan will help you to recover more effectively from an emergency. Following a major incident, councils may offer recovery surgeries and drop-in sessions providing further advice. Look out for this information in the local media. When you return home, follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.