Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

This week on Healthwatch, we're talking about planning for disaster. A good plan can help your family deal with difficult situations so everyone knows what to do. Previously, we discussed how important it is for your family to know how to communicate in the event of a disaster. Patrick Tiner, a disaster-response expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, says it's also essential for your family to have a set meeting place in case a disaster requires your family to leave the house or prevents them from getting home.

You should also make sure your family knows what to do in case of emergency. Have a plan for escaping a house fire and for finding shelter from an earthquake, tornado or other event that might happen in your area - and practice these drills so everyone will be ready. Your fire drill should include a designated place to meet once you're safely outside the house.

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