Learn location of fuse box or circuit breaker.

Store candles, flashlights and extra batteries near bed.

Have food and water supplies on hand.

Know the locations of all camping equipment: stove, lantern, sleeping bags. Make sure equipment is operational and that you know how to use it. Use camping equipment requiring gasoline, propane, white fuel, Coleman fuel or charcoal briquettes only outside.

Keep refrigerator well defrosted.

Unplug all your appliances. The surge of power that comes when power is restored could ruin appliances.

Turn off all but one light switch.

Open refrigerator door only to take food out, close as quickly as possible.

Use camping equipment outside, six feet away from everything. Use only a fireplace, properly installed wood stove or a new-style kerosene heater in a safe area with fresh outside air coming into area.

Report any downed lines.

Do not allow children to carry lanterns, candles or fuel.

When power is restored, plug in appliances one by one, waiting a few minutes between each one. This will prevent overloading the system.

Be patient. Energy may first be restored to police and fire departments and hospitals.

Examine your frozen food. If it still contains ice crystals, it may be refrozen. If meat is off-color or has an odd odor, throw it away.

                                                                   

If you have advanced warning, take your 72-hr kit and go to an approved shelter or your basement. Huddle close to the floor and as near to the south wall as possible. Get under a table for protection from falling objects.

DO NOT attempt to evacuate your shelter until advised.

If you see a nuclear flash and feel sudden heat, take cover INSTANTLY, within one to two seconds. Drop to the ground and curl up tightly, covering as many parts of your body as possible. Go to a shelter once the heat and blast effects have cleared.

Never look at the light of a nuclear explosion.

Take cover in an underground shelter, basement, etc.

Remove contaminated clothing.

Wash yourself thoroughly with soap and water. Wash your head and nose hairs especially well.

If source of radiation is known and travel advisable, travel in the opposite direction and go up wind from radiation.

Remain in protective shelter for three days. Limit your exposure to contaminated areas.

If someone needs radiation sickness treatment, keep the victim calm; give emotional support and plenty of fluids.

Wipe food and water containers with a clean cloth to remove particles of fallout, which resemble sand or salt.

Place poison control number near the phone  (1-800-456-7707).

Do not leave children alone or unattended.

Be aware of all potential hazards in your home.

Never call medicine “candy”.

Teach children to ask before putting anything in their mouth.

Keep a bottle of ipecac and activated charcoal on hand.

Stay calm.

Call the poison control center at 1-800-456-7707.

Following poison control’s instructions.