Disaster response in the first 72 hours

In a disruption, stabilize first and improve later. The order is life safety, immediate hazards, communication, water and shelter, then records and recovery.

First hour

1. Check people for urgent danger and call for help when possible.
2. Leave areas with fire, gas, structural, electrical, flood, or violence hazards.
3. Account for household members and neighbors only when it is safe.
4. Listen for official instructions.

First day

Set up water, shelter, sanitation, food, medication, communication, and a written status board. Take photographs of damage only after safety needs are met. Record hazards, supplies used, and messages received.

Days two and three

Rotate responsibilities, rest, check welfare, preserve supplies, and reassess whether to stay or leave. Do not treat this package as authority to enter closed areas or repair damaged utilities.