• You never know when you may have an emergency.First aid box image by Galyna Andrushko from Fotolia.com
  
  You never know when or where an emergency will arise: in the car, at home, or maybe at work. Having procedures in place to deal with these eventualities will mean that you can fend for yourself or get help faster than if you had no plans ready, which could lead to confusion at a time of great stress.
  
  

At Home

• If you have young children, make sure that all sharp edges are concealed, fireplaces are kept out of bounds and medicines and toxic chemicals are out of reach.
  
  Make a list of phone numbers you will need in the event of an emergency, besides 911. This may include poison control, for example. Program these numbers into your phone so that you can dial them immediately. Make sure you know where the nearest hospital is and a number of different routes to get there in case roads are closed. If you live in an apartment, familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits.
  
  

At Work

• Make sure you know where the emergency exits are in the event of an evacuation, and familiarize yourself with the procedures involved. Pay attention the next time there's a fire drill. Find out if there are any personnel at your workplace who are responsible for taking control during an emergency by ensuring all staff are evacuated and that utilities are turned off.
  
  

In the Car

• See to it that your car is stocked for emergencies with such items as a first-aid kit, a blanket, a flashlight, and plenty of water. Keep a cell phone adapter that runs off your car battery handy to ensure you can use the phone and charge its battery. Keep your gas tank topped off as much as possible.
  
  

When Travelling

• Always carry traveler's checks when going abroad instead of cash, as they can be replaced if stolen or lost. If you are staying in a hotel, store all of your valuables in the safe whenever you leave your room. Carry a medical identification card or wear a bracelet at all times to inform emergency personnel of any medical conditions or allergies to any form of treatment or medication.
  
  It is highly advisable to take out medical insurance when traveling, as not doing so can sometimes prove very expensive in the event of an accident or injury.