Disasters can strike at any time, and when they do, family members may not be together. Having a family plan is crucial for ensuring everyone knows how to connect, communicate, and stay safe during emergencies. Understanding the types of disasters that could impact your area is the first step in creating a robust plan that will bring your family peace of mind.
Step 1: Start Building Your Family Plan Today
Begin your family plan by sitting down with your loved ones – family, friends, or household members – and discussing key emergency preparedness questions. This conversation is the foundation of your plan. Consider how you will contact each other if separated and where you will reconnect. Establish a familiar and easily accessible family meeting place as part of The Family Plan.
Step 2: Customize Your Family Plan to Specific Needs
A successful family plan acknowledges the unique needs within your household. Tailor your plans and emergency supplies to your specific daily living requirements and responsibilities. Discuss how members of your network can support each other with communication, childcare, business needs, pet care, or specialized medical equipment. Building a personal support network is an essential part of the family plan, especially for those who may require additional assistance. When developing your plan, remember to consider:
- The different ages of household members
- Responsibilities for assisting others, including elderly relatives or neighbors
- Frequently visited locations like schools, workplaces, or community centers
- Specific dietary needs, including allergies or medical diets
- Medical needs, such as prescriptions, equipment, and ongoing treatments
- Disabilities or access and functional needs, including mobility aids and communication devices
- Languages spoken within the household
- Cultural and religious considerations that might impact emergency responses
- The needs of pets or service animals
- Households with school-aged children and their school emergency plans
Step 3: Document Your Family Emergency Plan
Creating a written family emergency plan makes it easier to remember and share crucial details. Utilize readily available fillable forms to document your plan in a clear and organized manner. This written plan becomes a vital reference point for everyone involved.
Step 4: Practice and Maintain Your Family Plan
The final step in creating an effective family plan is practice. Regularly rehearsing your plan with your family or household ensures everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in an emergency. Practice drills can identify areas for improvement and build confidence in your preparedness. Review and update your family plan periodically to account for changes in circumstances, contact information, or needs.
Essential Preparedness Resources
Know Your Alerts and Warnings: Understanding local alert systems is a critical component of your family plan. Learn about the different types of alerts and warnings in your area and what actions to take when they are issued. Resources are available in English and Additional Languages.
12 Ways to Prepare: Enhance your family plan with these essential preparedness steps. This resource outlines twelve key actions you can take to increase your family’s readiness for various emergencies. Available in English and Additional Languages.
Document and Insure Your Property: As part of a comprehensive family plan, protect your assets by documenting your property and ensuring adequate insurance coverage. This proactive step can be invaluable in the recovery process after a disaster. Find guides in English and Additional Languages.
Safeguard Critical Documents and Valuables: Your family plan should include strategies for safeguarding important documents and valuables. Learn how to protect these essential items from damage or loss during emergencies. Resources are available in English and Additional Languages.
