What would you do in the event of a major flood, man-made disaster, power outage, toxic spill, or health-related quarantine?  Could you survive on your own for the first 72 hours after a major disaster or emergency? 

The 72 Crew Awareness and Preparedness campaign is dedicated to helping you and your family Be Prepared . . . Not Scared. Click on Get Involved to learn how your community can be 72 Crew Certified.

Make sure your house is as safe as possible by following these few simple guidelines.

• Install smoke detectors on each level of your home and change batteries every 6 months.
• Move beds away from windows.
• Clear hallways and exits for easy evacuation.
• Move mirrors and heavy pictures away from couches or places where people sit.
• Clear hallways and exits for easy evacuation.
• Store heavy items on the lowest shelves.
• Keep an ABC type fire extinguishers on each level and know how and when to use them.
• Strap down your water heater and fit all gas appliances with a flexible gas supply line.
• Store flammable or highly reactive chemicals (such as bleach, ammonia, paint thinners) securely and separate from each other.
• Secure pictures and wall hangings and use restraints to secure heavy items such as bookcases and file cabinets.
• Know how and when to switch off your utilities.
• Keep utility company emergency phone numbers in one place near the telephone.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home and change batteries every 6 months. Install a carbon monoxide detector within forty (40) feet of all rooms used for sleeping. The carbon monoxide detector should be placed so it will be easily heard in all sleeping areas and should be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Ensure that all window safety bars have emergency releases.
• Be sure your home number is visible from the street so emergency vehicles can find you.
• Have a set place for storing your Emergency Supply Kit and a Go Bag.