1. MODULE EIGHT: Emergency Preparedness Info from www.osha.gov

2. Objectives: Students will: Understand the importance of community preparedness. Understand how to work together as part of a team when responding to emergencies. Understand how to develop an emergency plan for their family and home.

3. What is emergency preparedness? Emergency preparedness is planning and actions undertaken in advance of a possible or probable natural or man-made disaster. Plans for reconstruction, food storage, sanitation equipment storage, and conducting drills are usually part of an emergency preparedness plan.

4. What is a disaster? An unforeseen natural or man-made event that often comes on suddenly and that causes great damage, destruction and human suffering.

5. Disasters that occur in the United States: Earthquake Home fires and wildfires Flooding Hurricane/tropical storm Severe storm; ice/hail storms; windstorms Tornado Winter storm Extreme heat Hazardous spills Nuclear power plant emergencies Terrorism Biological and chemical threats Volcano Epidemic/Pandemic Illness

6. Who responds? First responders are usually: Citizens bystanders Firefighters, police officers, and EMS (Emergency Medical Services) First receivers are usually: Healthcare workers, hospital employees HAZMAT, Safety officers and skilled volunteers

7. Aftermath: Buildings may have been damaged or weakened by the disaster, and may collapse without warning. There may also be gas leaks or electrical short circuits.

8. After a disaster, it’s important that people who live in the affected area: –Stay away from fallen or damaged electric wires. –Check food and water supplies before using them. Foods that require refrigeration may be spoiled if electric power has been off for some time. –Stay away from disaster areas. You could interfere with first aid or rescue work, and it may be dangerous, as well. –Don’t drive unless necessary. –Report hazards to local authorities. –Do not spread rumors. –Obtain food, clothing, medical care, or shelter at Red Cross stations or from local government authorities. Aftermath:

9. What can you do? Be informed about hazards that can affect you and your family. Have a home emergency plan in place. Collect and assemble a disaster supply kit. Know the location of your local shelters. Learn the warning systems in your community. For example, on TV or the radio or community website.

10. Emergency drills: Help people practice and prepare for real emergencies. Should be treated as if they were real.

11. Summary: Emergency preparedness involves planning and actions undertaken in advance of a possible or probable disaster. Be informed about hazards that can affect you and your family. Have a home emergency plan in place. Preparedness begins at home