Preparing your family for a major incident
This page describes simple steps that can be taken to prepare yourself for an emergency situation.
There are many possible scenarios which may involve you needing to change your normal routine if an incident occurs near you, such as road closures, power outage, widespread flooding, snow or a fire in your local area.
You should take time now to make sure you are aware of:
- where and how to turn off the water, gas and electricity supplies in your home
- the emergency procedures for your children at school
- the emergency procedures at your workplace
- how your family might stay in contact in the event of an incident
- if any elderly or vulnerable neighbours or relatives might need your help
- how to tune in to your local radio station.
If you are at home during an incident, it is worth knowing the locations of the following items. Remember you are unlikely to get much of a warning in the event that you need to be evacuated from your home, so having these items ready packed in a safe place will save you valuable time:
- a list of useful phone numbers, such as your relatives, doctor, utilities and insurance companies
- home and car keys
- toiletries and sanitary supplies, any regular prescribed medicine, baby food
- a battery radio and spare batteries
- a torch with spare batteries, candles and matches
- a first aid kit
- your mobile phone and charger
- cash and credit cards
- spare clothes and blankets
- bottled water, tinned food and a can opener, in case you have to remain at home for a few days.
Related websites
- Preparing for emergencies (Directgov website)
- Surrey Alert website
- Surrey County Council (Community Resilience)
- UK Resilience - Community Resilience (Cabinet Office).
Contact
Contingency Planning Officer
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
Town Hall
Castlefield Road
Reigate
Surrey
RH2 0SH
Telephone: 01737 276007
Email: contingency.planning@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
Last updated : 28/09/2011
