How to Make a Family Emergency Plan

1. Start with Communication

The cornerstone of any emergency plan is clear and reliable communication.

Establish Primary and Secondary Contact Methods

• Identify a primary method of communication, such as phone calls or text messages. In many emergencies, text messages are more reliable than calls due to overloaded networks.
• Choose an out-of-town contact person for family members to report to if local communication fails.

Create a Contact Information Sheet

• Include phone numbers for each family member, emergency services, work, school, and daycare facilities.
• Use waterproof and durable sheets like a Laminated Reference Guide for easy storage in backpacks.

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Consider Communication Devices

• Purchase two-way radios like the Motorola T600 Talkabout Radio, which is waterproof and ideal for staying in touch during power outages or when cell towers are down.
• Invest in a portable battery charger, such as the Anker PowerCore 20000, to ensure mobile devices stay powered.

2. Identify Potential Emergencies

Understand the types of emergencies that could affect your area. These might include natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, or human-made crises like chemical spills or power outages.

• Use local resources like city websites or apps to stay updated on potential threats.
• Download the FEMA App, available on most app stores, for alerts and disaster resources.

3. Create an Emergency Meeting Plan

Determine safe meeting locations in case family members are separated during an emergency.

Choose Two Meeting Locations

• Near your home: This could be your front yard or a nearby park. Ensure it’s safe and easy to access.
• Outside your neighborhood: Identify a location such as a library, community center, or friend’s house.

4. Plan for Evacuation

If you need to leave your home, having a clear evacuation plan is crucial.

Know Your Routes

• Identify at least two evacuation routes from your home and practice using them.
• Keep a road atlas like the Rand McNally Road Atlas in case GPS systems fail.

Pack an Emergency Go-Bag Prepare a go-bag for each family member. Include:

• Non-perishable food like CLIF Bars.
• Bottled water or a water filtration system such as the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter.
• Flashlights with extra batteries, like the GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight.
• A basic first aid kit, such as the First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Kit.
• Personal hygiene items, medications, and essential documents.

5. Prepare for Shelter-in-Place

Not all emergencies require evacuation. For situations like chemical spills, staying home and sealing your space may be safer.

Stockpile Essential Supplies

• Water: Store one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
• Food: Keep a supply of non-perishable items like canned goods. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
• Lighting: Have candles, matches, and lanterns like the LE LED Camping Lantern or the Etekcity LED Camping Lanterns.
• Tools: Consider a multipurpose tool such as the Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool for various tasks.

Designate a Safe Room

• Choose an interior room without windows, such as a basement or bathroom.
• Use duct tape and plastic sheeting like Duck Brand Heavy Duty Plastic Sheeting to seal doors and windows.

6. Consider Special Needs

Every family has unique needs, so tailor your plan accordingly.

Children

• Teach them how to dial emergency services and memorize essential phone numbers.
• Include comfort items in their go-bags, such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

Pets

• Include pet food, water, and a carrier in your emergency kit. The Petmate Two-Door Top or Front Loading Pet Kennel is a sturdy option for transport.

Elderly Family Members

• Prepare extra medications and mobility aids. Keep a copy of their medical records.

Special Medical Needs

• If anyone relies on medical devices, ensure you have portable power supplies or backup batteries.

7. Practice Your Plan

Once your plan is complete, practice it regularly. Schedule family drills every six months.

Conduct Mock Scenarios

• Practice evacuating your home in different situations.
• Simulate communication breakdowns to ensure everyone knows backup plans.

Update Your Plan

• Regularly review and update contact information, meeting locations, and supplies.
• Rotate perishable items like food and batteries.

8. Secure Your Home

Minimizing risks at home can reduce damage and keep your family safer.

Inspect Your Home

• Secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls using earthquake straps.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, such as the Kidde Smoke & CO Detector.

Invest in Home Security

• A reliable security camera system, like the Ring Floodlight Cam, can help you monitor your property remotely during an emergency.

9. Stay Informed

Being aware of potential threats and updates is essential.

Sign Up for Alerts

• Register for local emergency alerts through your city or county.
• Use a NOAA Weather Radio, such as the Midland WR120 Weather Alert Radio, for real-time updates.

Monitor Social Media

• Follow local authorities and emergency services for the latest information.

10. Teach Your Plan

Every family member should understand the emergency plan. This ensures everyone knows their role and can act confidently.

Simplify Instructions

• Use age-appropriate explanations for children.
• Create a visual version of your plan for younger kids.

Reinforce Learning

• Quiz family members on contact numbers and meeting locations.
• Encourage questions and discussions to ensure everyone is comfortable with the plan.

11. Keep Documents Safe

Ensure all critical documents are secure and accessible during an emergency.

Gather Important Documents

• Include birth certificates, insurance policies, medical records, and passports.
• Store them in a waterproof and fireproof container like the SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof File Safe.

Create Digital Backups

• Save copies of documents to a secure cloud service or USB drive.

12. Prepare Financially

Emergencies can have significant financial implications.

Set Aside an Emergency Fund

• Keep cash on hand, as ATMs may not work during power outages.

Review Insurance Policies

• Ensure your home, health, and auto insurance policies are up-to-date and provide adequate coverage.

13. Engage with Your Community

A connected community is a resilient one.

Join Local Groups

• Participate in neighborhood safety programs or emergency preparedness workshops.

Help Vulnerable Neighbors

• Check on elderly or disabled neighbors during emergencies.

By creating and practicing a family emergency plan, you can protect your loved ones and navigate crises with confidence. Take the time today to prepare for tomorrow. A little planning now can make a big difference when it matters most.