Your family might not always be together when an incident happens and even if you are, you might not know what you should do straight away.
To stay safe and respond effectively to an incident you can all work together to plan and prepare for such an event.
Take our quick quiz - How Prepared Are You For Disaster?
You can download our Dealing With Emergencies booklet which is designed to provide information and a template emergency plan for people in Sandwell.
It can also be used by businesses, employees and other groups as a guide and source of information for preparing and responding to emergencies.
People who spend time planning and preparing together often cope better and recover more quickly from national and local emergencies.
Citizen Aid
citizenAID is a UK registered charity with a focused mission to prepare individuals, communities and organisations to help themselves and each other when there are multiple casualties, particularly from deliberate attacks. For more information please visit citizenAID
Safer 6
Safer 6 is an annual six-week autumn campaign which promotes a wide range of safety, crime prevention and healthy living advice.
After an emergency
The council will do as much as is possible to help our communities after an emergency, but there are some things you may need to do yourself.
Returning to a damaged home or property can be physically and mentally challenging.
Here's some advice for how to get things back to normal.
- Call your insurance provider
- If possible take pictures of damage
- Keep records of any repair work and cleaning costs
- Beware bogus traders. If in doubt contact trading standards via Consumer Direct or 08454 040506
- Do not enter until told to do so by emergency services
- Use a torch until you are sure there are no leaks of gas or other flammable substances. Turn the torch on before entering your home
- If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound in the building leave immediately and call National Grid for help on 0800 111 999
- If electrical appliances are wet or have possibly been in contact with water they need to be checked by a professional before being used
- Check with your water supply company before using tap water as it may be contaminated.