Before a disaster happens, you and your family should create a plan that covers 72 hours.  You can create a plan here, by downloading San Fransisco's template and filling it out with your information.  If you have pets, you can follow the Humane Society's guidelines here.  Specific steps provided by the American Red Cross might also need to be taken if you have a disability, or are an older adult.

Different disasters require different responses.  See the types of disasters the Quad Cities can face below to learn more about what to do during these emergencies.  If you cannot return home after a disaster, you can seek help at the Quad Cities American Red Cross, various Salvation Army sites, or local churches and libraries.

Tornado

• Have a disaster plan and be prepared to follow it.
• Know the warning signs, such as strong storms, a suddenly dark sky, roaring winds, or rotating clouds.  The Quad Cities also has tornado sirens that are tested on the first Tuesday of each month.
• Know that it is a myth that tornadoes can't cross bodies of water.
• A tornado watch means the conditions are right for a tornado to develop, while a tornado warning means one has been sighted and you should seek shelter immediately
• If you're indoors, take shelter in a basement or the lowest building level.  If you can't get to a basement, take shelter in a small room or hallway.
• If you're driving, take shelter in the closest building you can safely get to.  If you can't get to a building, get out of the vehicle and lay face-down with your hands over your head (and in a ditch, if possible).  Do not attempt to take shelter in an underpass.

Flood

• Have a disaster plan and be prepared to follow it.
• If it's possible to reach high ground, do so.  If you have time to evacuate your home, turn off your utilities and move valuable items to a high place.
• If you're driving or walking, do not pass through water - especially if you can't see the bottom.
• Know that even if water has receded, a small amount of rain can create a flash flood.  Plus, flood water can be contaminated with debris, gasoline, bacteria and more, so it should be avoided.

Fire

• Have a disaster plan and be prepared to follow it.
• You and your family should know how to open all doors and windows in case anyone must quickly escape.  Keep your smoke alarm batteries up-to-date and ensure that you have at least one fire extinguisher (and that it isn't expired).  The National Fire Protection Association recommends that homes should have a smoke alarm in each bedroom and on every floor.
• Your first priority is to escape the building you are in.  If there's smoke in the air, get low on the floor. Before opening any door, feel the doorknob and the door body. If it's warm or there's smoke coming in from the other side, don't open the door because there may be a fire on the other side. Use your second exit, even if it's a window.
• Once you have exited the building, contact emergency services.