The first step to making a plan is to consider how an emergency may affect your individual or family needs. We should assume the worst-case scenario for these plans. With that in mind, before an emergency, your plan should include:
- Shelter-in-place and evacuation strategies.
- Details on the locations and contents of your emergency kits.
- Actions to take for various types of hazards.
- Communication methods if your loved ones are separated.
- Out-of-area contacts in case local communication lines are not usable.
Keep an updated copy of your plan in your emergency kit! Don’t forget to regularly practice and update your plan.
Emergency Kit Essentials
- List of emergency phone numbers (family, friends, doctor, etc.)
- Local emergency services (police, fire, ambulance)
- Work and school contacts
- Out-of-area emergency contact
- Identify primary and secondary evacuation routes
- Designate a meeting place outside the home/building
- Plan for pets (shelters, transport, food)
- Practice evacuation drills regularly
- Identify the safest room (interior, no windows)
- Stock with emergency supplies
- Know how to seal the room (plastic sheeting, duct tape)
- Plan for elderly, disabled, or medically dependent individuals
- Include assistive devices, prescriptions, and caregiver contacts
- Child-specific needs (diapers, formula, comfort items)
- How to contact family if separated
- Text messaging as backup if calls fail
- Social media or emergency apps for updates
- Know how to shut off gas, water, and electricity
- Fire extinguishers in key locations
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly
- Secure heavy furniture and appliances
- Full gas tank
- Emergency car kit (jumper cables, flares, blanket, food, water)
- Maps and GPS backup
- Know the emergency procedures
- Participate in drills
- Understand lockdown, evacuation, and communication protocols
- Review your plan every 6 months
- Update contact info as needed
- Practice your plan with all household members