Mar 23, 2003 By Patty Shultz 3 min read

Local, state and federal authorities have recommended that individuals and families create a plan detailing procedures they should undertake in the event of a disaster. “Be prepared is the best advice,” said Guy Napolillo, director of the county’s 911 emergency services.

According to the Pennsylvania Homeland Security Department, families should determine how they would contact one another should they not be together at the time of a terrorist attack.

Authorities suggest carrying telephone numbers and sufficient coins or prepaid phone cards to make telephone calls, if necessary, and to know the emergency plans for those places where family members spend a large amount of time, such as workplaces, daycare centers and schools.

The state agency recommends that people assess the situation

by using radio or television broadcasts or by contacting local authorities.

“There may be situations when it’s best to stay where you are at, but if you are told to evacuate or to seek medical attention, do so,” said Napolillo.

If you stay, officials recommend the following steps:

– Bring family and pets indoors.

– Lock doors and close all windows, air vents and fireplace dampers.

– Turn off fans, air conditioning and forced-air heating systems.

– Have an emergency kit with a three-day supply of food, water and medication.

– Go to an interior room with the fewest number of windows.

– Seal all windows, doors and air vents with plastic sheeting and duct tape.

– Keep informed through the use of television, radio or the Internet.

For those ordered to evacuate their homes, officials recommend the following actions:

– Plan places where your family will meet, both within and outside of your immediate neighborhood.

– Maintain at least a half-tank of gas in your vehicle.

– Become familiar with alternate evacuation routes and transportation.

– Take your emergency supply kit with you.

– Lock the door as you leave.

– Take your pets, but be advised that some public shelters may permit only service animals.

– If time allows, call any out-of-state family members to let them know where you will be going.

– If there is damage to your home and you are instructed to do so, shut off utilities before leaving. Know in advance the location of shut-off valves and keep tools nearby to facilitate the work. Remember, only a professional can restart gas flow to appliances.

– Leave a note in your home with your planned location and what time you left.

– When traveling in a vehicle, if there is an explosion or other factor that makes it difficult to control, pull over, stop the car and set the parking brake.

– If the emergency could affect the physical stability of the roadway, avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards.

– If a power line falls on your car, you are at risk of electrical shock. Stay inside until it is properly removed.

– Listen to the radio for information and instructions as they become available.

Napolillo also advises that if a disaster occurs within the county or neighborhood, those not involved in handling the incident should stay away from the scene.

“We will have enough to deal with at the time and would appreciate the cooperation of those not involved to stay indoors until the area is secure,” he said.