Establish a Family Emergency Plan

Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to prepare a family emergency plan that will help you respond to any emergency situation. It is important to:
  • Discuss the types of disasters that could occur
  • Plan how to prepare for and respond to each type of disaster
  • Discuss where to go and what to bring if advised to evacuate. Become familiar with alternate routes and other means of transportation out of your area.
  • Establish two meeting places:
    1. Outside your home in case of a sudden emergency
    2. A local church, school or other pre-established location if you can't return to your home following the emergency. Make sure each family member knows the address/contact information for your meeting places.
  • Choose an out-of-state friend as a "check-in contact" for everyone to call. Make sure every member of your family knows the contact's phone number.
  • Write down important contact numbers on a family emergency contact card and give a copy to each family member.
  • Make sure to have a plan for your pets.
  • Practice and maintain your plan. Every six months you should:
    • Review your Family Emergency Plan and practice fire and emergency evacuation drills
    • Review emergency information including contact information with children
    • Replace batteries in smoke detectors
    • Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions
    • Replace stored food and water and replenish items in emergency supplies kit as necessary.


  • Related Information
    Personal Emergency Plan