Make Your Plan
A written emergency plan means everyone in your household knows what to do, where to go, and who to contact -- before disaster strikes.
Key Planning Questions
- Where will your family meet if you cannot go home?
- What are your two best evacuation routes from home?
- Who is your out-of-area emergency contact?
- Where will your pets go?
- Do you have a plan for elderly or disabled family members?
- Who has keys to your house?
- Where are your important documents (or copies)?
- What medications does your family need?
Create Your Written Plan
The American Red Cross provides a free family disaster plan template. Download it, fill it out, and make sure every family member has a copy.
Recommended Downloads
Distribute Your Plan
- Give a copy to each family member
- Keep a copy in each car
- Keep a copy in your go-bag
- Share with your out-of-area contact
- Share with trusted neighbors
- Review and update at least once per year
Practice Makes Prepared
Run through your plan at least once. Do a practice evacuation drive. Time yourself packing your go-bag. Identify what you forgot and update your plan.