Emergency Family Plan

Prepare today, before disaster strikes.

An emergency can happen at any time—being prepared can make all the difference. Gather your family and create a plan that outlines how you will communicate, where you will go, and what actions you will take in the event of a disaster.

Create Your Family Emergency Plan

✅ Download and Print: Use Ready.gov’s Family Emergency Plan Form to write down essential details. Store a copy in your emergency supply kit or another easily accessible, safe location.

Essential Steps for Your Family Plan

📦 Build a Disaster Supply Kit

Make sure your kit includes essential items such as food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, and important documents.

📍 Decide on Emergency Meeting Places

• Choose a local meeting spot near your home.
• Select an out-of-town contact where family members can reunite if separated.

📞 Establish Communication Plans

• Ensure every family member has updated contact information.
• Teach everyone how to send a text message in case voice calls don’t work.
• Program emergency numbers into all phones and display them in your home.

🚪 Plan Escape Routes & Drills

• Identify exit routes from every room in your home for different disaster scenarios.
• Practice emergency drills with your family at least twice a year.

🩺 Consider Special Needs

• Plan for children, elderly family members, individuals with disabilities, and pets.
• Keep any necessary medications, mobility aids, or medical equipment ready.

🛠 Know How to Shut Off Utilities

• Learn where and how to turn off water, gas, and electricity if necessary.
• Never turn off gas during practice drills—only a licensed professional should restore it.
• Keep tools near shut-off valves for quick access.

🔥 Fire Safety & Alarms

• Make sure everyone knows how to use a fire extinguisher.
• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home.
• Test alarms regularly—those with hearing impairments should use alarms with strobe lights, vibrating alerts, or lower-toned alarms.

📜 Protect Important Documents

Store birth certificates, Social Security cards, passports, wills, deeds, immunization records, and financial documents in a fireproof and waterproof safe or safe-deposit box.

🐾 Emergency Preparedness for Pets

Disasters affect pets too—ensure your furry family members are included in your emergency plan.

For detailed guidance, visit:
🐶 Disaster Preparedness for Pets (Humane Society)
🐱 Information for Pet Owners (FEMA)
🐾 Pet Preparedness Toolkit (Ready.gov)
🐾 Disaster Readiness for Pets (ASPCA)

Stay Safe & Stay Prepared

A well-thought-out emergency plan can save lives. Start preparing today and ensure your family knows what to do in any situation.