The likelihood that you and your family will survive a house fire depends as much on you having a working smoke detector and exit strategy, as on a well-trained fire department. The same is true for surviving an earthquake or other emergency. We must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector, preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get ready now.

Get a Kit of Emergency Supplies
Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer. While there are many thing that might make you more comfortable, think first about fresh water, food and clean air.
Consider two kits. In one, put every­thing you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to get away. (See below for list of suggested emergency supplies.)
Make a Plan for What You Will Do
Plan in advance what you will do in an emergency. Be prepared to assess the sit­uation. Use common sense and whatev­er you have on hand to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
Develop a family communications plan. Consider a plan where each family mem­ber calls, or e-mails, the same friend or relative in the event of an emergency. An out-of-town contact may be in a bet­ter position to communicate among sep­arated family members. Watch television or listen to the radio for official instruc­tions as they become available.
Create a plan to shelter-in-place. There are circumstances when staying put and in your home may be best. If you see large amounts of smoke or debris in the air, you may want to shelter-in-place and seal your home or a room.

Create a plan to get away. Plan in advance how you will assemble your family and anticipate where you will go. Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency. Remember to take your kit.
Know emergency plans at school and work. Talk to your children's schools and your employer about emergency plans. Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together.

Be Informed About What Might Happen
By beginning a process of learning, you are preparing yourself to react in an emergency. Go to www.ready.gov to learn more, or attend a Personal Emergency Preparedness class or Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) course offered by the Alameda County Fire Department.

Get Involved in Preparing
For information on upcoming classes go to www.acgov.org/fire or call (510) 618­3490.