To be prepared for various kinds of emergencies, residents should consider these steps:

• Make – and practice – an emergency evacuation plan for you, your family, and your pets.

• Purchase a fire extinguisher for your unit; small ones for apartments are available at hardware and home stores and on the internet.

• Purchase an emergency portable roll-up fire escape ladder – one that is recommended by fire experts.  The local fire department will have suggestions on where to purchase a ladder appropriate for your unit.  Our nearest Firehouse is located at 4300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; (202) 673-3220.

Have on hand an emergency bag and information for each member of the family.  These bags should include:

• a supply of medications, back-ups of necessary medical equipment, and basic medical records (list of doctors and current medications; copy of medical insurance cards, etc.)
• back-ups of glasses and hearing aids; any batteries needed.
• copies of critical documents (birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, insurance and banking information; names and contact information for people to notify, etc.)
• a change of clothing and an extra pair of shoes.

Protect your pets in emergencies by:

• keeping licenses current and attached to your pets at all times.
• having a disaster kit for your pets, including food and water.
• preparing a first aid kit for your pets, including any medications and medical records.
• having a pet carrier or crate that is suitable for your pet’s size, and a rope that could be used to lower the carrier or crate out the window.
• making sure your pet is registered with Management so that in an emergency in your absence, Management will know to rescue your pet.

For resources on emergency planning, you can consult: