Creating a Family Emergency Plan
While it’s not possible to predict or prevent natural disasters, being prepared can help you weather the storm. Here are some tips for preparing for the unexpected.

Develop a family communication plan
Plan in advance how your family will contact one another in different scenarios. Designate a long-distance friend or relative for each family member to contact in the event of an emergency, as it may be easier for that person to communicate among separated family members. Be sure each person knows the phone number of the emergency contact.

Plan and practice escape routes
It takes only minutes for a house to fill with smoke and become engulfed in flames. Make sure each family member knows the safest route out of the house. Regularly practicing escape plans and make sure young children are able to open windows and doors. Choose a meeting spot where you’ll wait for help to arrive.

Take inventory of your belongings
Create a list of valuable items in your home, such as electronics, appliances, furnishings and collectibles. In the event of a disaster, remembering the contents of your home and their value will be important in determining your total loss. The Home Inventory Kit is a simple and reliable resource for creating a detailed list of your property and possessions.

Source: Federal Citizen Information Center documents “Your Family Disaster Supplies Kit” and “Preparing Makes Sense. Get Ready Now.” www.pueblo.gsa.gov, visited March 5, 2009.
“Get Out Safely,” U.S. Fire Administration, www.usfa.dhs.gov, visited March 5, 2009.