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:
  • 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. 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. Learn more about pet preparedness.
• 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.

Information is available for individuals with disabilities by visiting ready.gov.