Sit tight in an emergency and get informed

by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Stay calm, stay put stay informed. That is the message from Guam Homeland Security's Joint Information Center. With any hazardous emergency whether it be the North Korea situation, a fire, a typhoon or tsunami having a plan and the necessary emergency supplies will make it easier for you to be safe during an emergency.

Knowing what to do and practicing with your family will ensure you know how to respond correctly. A family safety plan should address different types of situations, identify how to contact each other, allow children to be involved in putting the plan together. Parents should remember to talk with children and answer their questions as truthfully as possible. Practicing the plan will help keep everyone calm.

If your child is in school or at daycare it is important to remember that school staff are trained to respond to emergencies, and have detailed plans should an emergency occur. Parents should remain informed by listening to the news instead of calling the school doing so may slow down emergency you operations. Being patient is key, remaining where you are will ensure you and your child are safe...schools will notify you when your child can be picked up.

Staying calm, staying informed, and staying put whether at home, work, or school is the best action you can take.

For more information residents can contact JIC at 475-9600.