The best way to keep yourself and your family safe is to be prepared before an emergency event or disaster happens.

According to the Colorado Springs Office of Emergency Preparedness, there are three basic steps to take to prepare for an emergency:

Get a kit Make a plan Be informed

An emergency kit should include water, food, clothing/bedding, first aid, tools and special needs, including important documents.

This kit should be kept somewhere accessible and near an exit in case of emergency.

Families should also have an evacuation plan before an emergency happens to determine escape routes and safety zones.

Don?t forget your pets. Make a pet evacuation kit with food, current ID tags and shot records.

If told to evacuate immediately, take only essential items such as medications, identification and money.

The Colorado Springs Emergency Preparedness and Safety Guide can be found at the following link. Click here to go to Emergency Planning