To-do this month:

1. Learn how to shut off your utilities and teach your family how to do it. (Purchase necessary tools.)

2. Make sure your family plan includes shelter-in-place information.

3. Teach your family what to do if away from home.

4. Prepare a disaster/shelter-in-place kit for your home.

5. Prepare your home and secure its contents.

   • Bolt or strap down top-heavy objects

   • Check electrical connections and gas pipes

   • Check home foundation and structure

   • Locate potential fire hazards

   • Install smoke, propane, gas, and carbon monoxide detectors

   • Place heavy objects on lower shelves

   • Store bottles and other breakables in lower cabinets

   • Store essential items in waterproof containers

   • Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children

   • Remove hazardous objects from sleeping areas

   • Properly store flammable liquids and gases