Vista Ridge Addition Homeowners Association

Homeland security begins with you. Are you ready?

May 28, 2004

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With reports of new non-specific information about potential terrorist threats, residents should know how to prepare and respond to any emergency, whether intentional, natural or accidental. Fortunately, preparedness resources are available to Fort Worth residents.



The city of Fort Worth has a partnership comprised of the Office of Emergency Management and the newly formed Bioterrorism and Health Emergency Preparedness Team (BHEPT) with the goal of preparing residents for potential emergency and terrorist threats. The new millennium has introduced many new challenges to homeland security and there are many things residents can do to help. Below are some quick tips for residents before, during and after a large-scale emergency.



Before an emergency:

Create an emergency plan: The plan should include out-of-town and local family/friend contacts, the location of emergency supplies, evacuation routes and at least two meeting places (one near your house and the second outside the neighborhood in case you cannot return).

Build an emergency supply kit: The kit should include at least three days of food, water, first aid supplies and clothing. It should also include a battery-powered radio and flashlight, household documents and personal hygiene items. Also, don't forget supplies for kids and pets.

Be alert: Pay attention to surroundings. Learn daily routines of your neighborhood and/or workplace. If something or someone is out of place or looks suspicious, report it to authorities.



During and after an emergency:

Follow directions: The single most important thing to do during an emergency is to follow the directions of emergency responders and authorities.

Remain calm: Panicking will only increase the risk during an emergency. Remaining calm will help authorities resolve the problem quickly and smoothly.

Use good judgment: In any emergency, think before you act. Your first intention may not be the best depending on the circumstance, so be sure to listen to authorities.





BHEPT offers free materials including comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Guides and fact sheets describing various biological agents. For more BHEPT information, or to schedule a BHEPT presentation for your Fort Worth community group, call (817) 871-6643 or visit www.fortworthgov.org/health. For general emergency preparedness information in Fort Worth, call (817) 392-6170.