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.
Things Of Importance
- 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. Make sure each family member knows the address/contact information for your meeting places.
- Outside your home in case of a sudden emergency
- Choose a local church, school or other pre-established location if you can’t return to your home following the emergency.
- 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. Learn more about pet preparedness
Practice & Maintain
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.