Take One Giant Leap for Preparedness

Dedicate a portion of your extra day this Friday to getting ready for all types of emergencies. Take a few moments to print and fill out the new Ready New York Emergency Reference Card. Every family should have a plan for how they will communicate with each other during or after an emergency. In case you need to reach doctors, insurance professionals, or even your family members, have all of these important numbers easily accessible, in one place. Learn more about Ready New York See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

ENSURE YOU ARE INSURED

Did you know a basic homeowner's policy does not cover flood damage? That is why homeowners and renters should consider getting flood insurance. New Yorkers who have below-sea-level dwellings or live in areas susceptible to sewer back-ups are not the only ones who can suffer expensive damage from flood waters. The good news is you cannot be denied insurance based on where you live or your home's history of flooding. Most insurance is provided through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and goes into effect 30 days after purchase. To determine your risk of flooding, visit www.Floodsmart.gov Visit NFIP online or call (888) 379-9531 See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Quench the Fire in Your Heart (and Home)

Some of you struck by Cupid's bow may be lucky enough to find love this Valentine's Day. But if you can't quench the fire in your heart this Thursday, at least make sure you have the right tools to handle a small fire in your home. Keep a portable ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher in your home in the event of a small, contained fire. Wet Class K extinguishers are recommended for stove-top fires. Notify the Fire Department any time a fire breaks out in your home and never try to fight a major fire. Learn more about fire extinguishers from the Fire Department See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Always Have an Exit Strategy

Can you move like Eli Manning? In a crisis, pressure can come from every direction. To make the right play, it is important to know all possible exit routes from your home, school, or business. If one route is blocked, a secondary exit route can keep your drive alive. Learn more about what your disaster plan should cover See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website