Make a Family Emergency Plan
A simple plan removes panic. Everyone knows where to meet, who to call, and what to grab — even if phones are down and you are not together.
Key takeaways
- Pick one local and one out-of-town contact everyone memorizes.
- Choose two meeting places: near home and outside the neighbourhood.
- Practice the plan once so kids know it by heart.
Step-by-step
- Write down contacts. List an out-of-town relative or friend as the family check-in point — long-distance lines often work when local ones are jammed.
- Pick meeting spots. One right outside your home for a fire, and one outside the area in case you cannot get home.
- Assign simple jobs. Decide who grabs the kit, who helps children or pets, and who shuts off utilities if needed.
- Practice and post it. Walk through it once, then post a copy on the fridge and save it on each phone.
✅ Printable checklist
- Out-of-town contact chosen and shared
- Two meeting places agreed
- Roles assigned for kit, kids, pets
- Copy posted at home + saved on phones
- Plan practiced at least once
