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:
- Outside your home in case of a sudden emergency
- 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