Emergency Preparedness While Traveling

Just because you are on vacation or traveling by car in your local area does not mean that you might not find yourself in an emergency or disaster situation.  This can include being stranded in your car during periods of extreme heat and cold.  There are steps you can take now to be better prepared for such an incident.

Awareness is the first step in being prepared for an emergency while away from your home.  You should take time to know what weather extremes may be expected in the areas you are visiting, along with what hazards are present.  Here are some tips on being prepared while away from home.

If traveling by car, make sure your car is in good working order, including such basic items as having good tires, keeping your gas tank full, and ensuring your windshield wipers are in good shape with plenty of windshield cleaner.  In addition, you should have emergency supplies in your car or truck. Your emergency kit may contain some or all of the following items:

	Cell phone Booster cables and tools Bottle Water (allow room for expansion) Manual can opener Canned fruits and nuts Current prescriptions/medication Emergency flares and distress flag/sign First aid kit Flashlight and extra batteries Matches (in child-resistant/waterproof container) Portable radio and extra batteries Rain gear, walking shoes and socks, warm hat, gloves and extra clothes Tow chain or rope Shovel Traction devices and bag of sand (kitty litter) Windshield scraper and brush (de-icer) Blanket Fire extinguisher (A-B-C type)

Do your homework before you start your travel.  Know what the hazards are in the area that you are to visit.  If you visit the U.S. Gulf Coast during hurricane season, know what actions you might be asked to take with the approach of a storm.  If enjoying the sun at the beach, make sure you understand the tsunami warning system and know where the evacuation routes are. 

And don't forget basic emergency preparedness in your hotel room. 

	Make sure you know the location of the two closest exits to your room.
	If you hear a fire alarm, do not dismiss it.  Take action immediately, just as you would at home.
	If you hear a fire alarm, be sure to check your room door for heat before you open it.
	When evacuating, never use the elevator; always use the stairs.

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