Department of Human Services

This information is from a FEMA publication called “Are You Ready?” and can be found on-line atwww.fema.gov/areyouready.  This is only one section in this guide, so please visit the website to access the entire publication for other useful disaster planning information.

EMERGENCY PLANNING AND CHECKLISTS

Now that you’ve learned about what can happen and how your community is prepared to respond to emergencies, prepare your family by creating a family disaster plan. You can begin this process by gathering family members and reviewing the information you obtained in Section 1.1 (hazards, warning systems, evacuation routes and community and other plans). Discuss with them what you would do if family members are not home when a warning is issued. Additionally, your family plan should address the following:

• Escape routes
• Family Communications
• Utility Shut-off and Safety
• Insurance and Vital Records
• Special Needs
• Caring for Animals
• Safety Skills