Make a Plan
Every household needs an emergency plan to know where you will go if you have to evacuate, and how you will communicate.
Think about how you will talk and connect with your family after an emergency. You need to plan for different ways to get in touch with family members as decided by the type of emergency. Fill out a contact card for each family member to keep with them. This card can go in a purse, wallet or backpack.
Check with your children’s school or daycare to learn more about their emergency plans.
Identify an out-of-state contact, since it may be easier to make long-distance calls during an emergency. That person can help keep track of all family members. Be sure everyone knows the contact name and numbers.
Have an “In Case of Emergency” contact listed in your cell phone. Emergency personnel will often check ICE listings to get in touch with someone you know.
Water, electricity and gas are key services in your day-to-day life. However, these services can also cause special problems during an emergency.
Learn ahead of time how to turn off the water, gas and electricity safely. Do NOT try to turn the gas back on yourself. Always call a trained expert.
Click here for more utility safety tips.
Emergencies can cause a lot of damage that needs to be fixed. This can cost a lot of money. You need to plan ahead for possible costs to make repairs. Planning ahead can save your family time and money after an emergency.
Collect copies of key papers and records. Keep them in both a safety deposit box and waterproof container with your emergency kit. Having these papers in one place will help if you need to sign up with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Be sure to have copies of:
- Birth certificate/adoption certificates
- Marriage license/divorce papers
- Social security cards
- Passport/Green card
- Will
- Insurance Policies (home, auto, life, health, etc.)
- Bank Statements
Complete an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit. Keep it in your kit.
Keep a small amount of cash or travelers checks in your emergency kit. Cash machines may not be working after an emergency.
Take photos or video of your personal belongings for insurance reasons. Look over your property, health and life insurance policies to make sure you have proper coverage. You need to find out if you are in a flood zone. If you are, think about buying flood insurance.