Before a disaster strikes, it is always beneficial to establish an emergency plan.  For situations when you are separated from family, establishing plans ahead of time to relocate to proper emergency locations and using emergency contacts are very helpful in making sure your household is prepared and out of harm’s way.

In your plan, address the following:

• How you will get to a safe place
• How you will contact one another
• How you will get back together
• What you will do in different situations

There is a possibility that you will not be with all your family members during a disaster; because of this, it is important to have a Family Communication Plan. It is recommended you complete the Family Emergency Plan and share this with your family and friends.
It is also important to tailor your emergency plan to you regarding pets and additional needs. For pets, it is recommended you build an animal emergency supply kit and maintain an animal care buddy system. More information regarding a pet kit can be found under the Make a Kit section.

For more information about writing a family plan or to access the PDF in a different language you can visit the website below.

Make A Plan

It is important to have enough supplies to last at least three days if an emergency occurs. Included are a list of some basic items that every emergency supply kit should include. While you can buy premade kits; it is just as critical to tailor the kit to your own unique needs.

Basic Disaster Kit

• Water: 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food: at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local paper maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter, or solar charger

Additional Supply Considerations

• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
• Medications and glasses
• Infant formula, diapers, and additional needs
• Cash or traveler’s checks.
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Pet food, crate, pet medical records.

Participate in disaster preparedness training courses. Training and educational events may be available through the American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, and other local organizations.