November

1. Personal Preparedness Personal Disaster Plans

2. All Hospital staff are relied upon and expected to fulfill responsible roles during disaster situations

3. But little is known about the needs or concerns that staff experience when they meet expectations and function as disaster responders.

4. Of primary importance to staff are Family Safety,

5. Pet Safety,

6. and Personal Safety while at work.

7. Secondary concerns include basic needs such as personal medication, food, water, sleep, shelter, and rest.

10. A family plan should include at least these three important things

11. A Meeting Place - Pick a location within walking distance of your home where your family members can meet in case you get separated or have to evacuate. For example, a local park or playground.

12. An Out of Area Contact - During a disaster, you may not be able to make local phone calls, but you might be able to call out of the area. Pick a family member or friend to serve as your family's Out-of-Area contact. You can call your Out-of-Area contact and tell them you're safe, where you are, and where you are going. All family members should have the phone number of your Out-of-Area contact with them at all times.

13. An Emergency Supply Kit - enough supplies to last you three days at a minimum, but for even longer is better! Build a kit for your home, for your car, and for your work. And remember to make sure your child is prepared at school.

14. Practice, practice, practice! The more you practice your emergency plan, the more likely you are to remember it in times of disaster.

15. Remember, emergency supply kits should be designed to fit your needs

16. Put together small versions for the office, school and car 1. Extra clothes w/sturdy shoes 2. Flashlight w/extra batteries 3. Whistle 4. First Aid kit with three-day supply of prescription drugs 5. Entertainment items like a deck of cards 6. Shelter-in-Place supplies like duct tape and plastic 7. Cash: ATMs won't operate if power is out

17. You are vitally important to the hospital if a disaster occurs. Have a plan if called back to the hospital: Family safety Prepare a “grab bag” for work Personal safety