Have a Plan
Your family may not be together when disaster strikes - this is especially so for students - so it is important to plan in advance. Know how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations.
Family Emergency Plan
Rule 1: As soon as possible, text or email home or your other designated out-of-town contact (Texts may go through when phone lines are not working). Students, this can't be stressed enough: If any event happens on campus or in Lincoln that your family may be left wondering if you are involved, please contact them.
In a larger emergency, phone service may be affected: It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members.
Emergency Information
In Nebraska, the most common natural disasters are tornado or severe thunderstorm, major snowstorms, fire and flood (depending on where you live).
Tornado Warnings are issued to alert people that a tornado has been sighted. When a warning is issued it should be acted on immediately by finding shelter. Most often, local radio and TV broadcasts alert residents of the impending threat of severe thunderstorm or snowstorm threat. Be aware of what weather threats are likely.
Emergency Plans
Find out about emergency plans at places where you and your family spend time: work, daycare and school. You will be better prepared to safely reunite your family and loved ones during an emergency if you think ahead and communicate with others in advance.
Heed and practice emergency drills. Know your escape route and where to head for shelter.