Preparedness Checklist

Complete This Checklist

Stock emergency supplies and assemble an emergency supply kit with enough items to meet your household’s needs for at least three days. Use this checklist to build your kit.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms. Test them regularly and replace batteries as recommended by the manufacturer.
Identify safe locations in your home for each type of disaster.
Plan at least two escape routes from every room. Mark the routes on a home floor plan and include it in your family emergency kit.
Post emergency telephone numbers near phones, including fire, police and ambulance services.
Teach children how and when to call 911 for emergency help.
Show each family member how and when to shut off the water, gas and electricity at the main switches. Keep any necessary tools or shut-off keys in a central, accessible location.
Teach family members how to use an ABC-rated fire extinguisher and show them where it is stored.
Take a first aid and CPR course through the American Red Cross or another qualified provider.
Review your insurance coverage annually. Confirm whether your policy covers specific hazards, such as hurricanes, or excludes certain types of damage.
Review SCEMD’s hazard-specific publications to learn how to prepare for emergencies that could affect your area.

Know Your Zone