Emergency: In Your Car

If you find yourself in a disaster situation while driving, you should try to get to the closest building you know, such as your house, office or other familiar place. If that’s not possible, pull your car to the side of the road, turn off your engine and close all windows and vents. Try to find a shady or sheltered place, like a bridge. Keep your radio on to listen for the latest information about road closings or detours. Disaster response officials will tell you if it’s safe to continue driving.

What should I keep in my car?

If you run into a disaster while you’re driving, your car will become your shelter. In order to stay safe, it’s a good idea to have disaster supplies in your trunk or backseat. Here are some of the essentials:

• Flashlight
• Blanket (a mylar space blanket costs just a few dollars and will keep you very warm)
• First aid kit
• Duct tape
• Water (at least one gallon)
• Road flares