How to be Safe During an Emergency

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Last week we were fortunate enough to have a representative from the Office of Emergency Management present at SMART Youth! We learned about the steps we can take to be prepared for an emergency, and what to do in an emergency. Here are some important things we learned:

• It is useful to arrange a meeting place with your family and friends in case you cannot get back to your home because of an emergency. This way, you know where to meet up if you can’t communicate with your friends and family.
• Make sure you have a “Go Bag.” A Go Bag consists of the things you would want if you need to leave in a hurry and should be sturdy and easy to carry. Go Bags should include copies of important documents, flashlights, medications, cash, water bottles, and contact information for family members and friends.
• The only time you should evacuate is when you are in immediate danger, for example when there is a fire, or if city officials direct you to evacuate. Evacuating when you are not directed to by a city official can put you in more danger than staying in your house!

To be even more prepared, sign up for emergency notifications from NYC via text, twitter, or email. Go to nyc.gov to sign up for free, or follow @NotifyNYC.