Preparing for emergencies at home

What to do in an emergency

In the event of an emergency, the best first advice is always to go in, stay in, tune in.

This means:

  • go in – take shelter upstairs, if possible
  • stay in – close all vents, close doors and windows, cover food and keep phone lines free
  • tune in – follow the local news online or on the radio, below
Local news Radio online Radio frequency Twitter
BBC Essex BBC Essex Sounds 95.3FM, 103.5FM Twitter: @BBCEssex
Heart Heart Radio 96.3FM, 102.6FM Twitter: @HeartEssex

If you are told to leave your home, you should:

  • switch off gas, water and electricity supplies
  • take a portable radio
  • wear suitable clothing
  • bring any important medication
  • secure or confine your pets – they may not be accepted in a local authority evacuation centre
  • call your emergency family or friend contact
  • stay away from the area and travel as directed