The best possible response to a disaster starts with a well-conceived plan.
Discuss with your household the types of emergencies that could occur in your area and what to do in each case.
Establish responsibilities for each household member so you can work as a team.
Pick two places to meet: one near your home in case of a local emergency, like a fire, and the second outside your neighborhood in case of larger-scale emergencies.
Maintain an up-to-date emergency contact card with addresses and phone numbers.
Choose an out-of-area friend or relative as a contact for everyone to call. It’s often easier to call out-of-area during a large-scale emergency.
Include your pets in an evacuation plan. Have items for your pet in your disaster supplies kit and “Go Bag.”
Teach adult household members when and how to turn off electricity, water and gas.
Tell household members where emergency information and supplies are kept.
Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Take your planned evacuation route, then map out alternative routes in case main roads are impassible.
Include your neighbors in your emergency plan.
