Make a Disaster Plan

Step 1: Start Your Plan


Family Disaster Plan (En Espanol)	Be Red Cross Ready

Post emergency numbers by phones (ambulance, police, fire, etc.).
Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1 for emergency help.
Show each family member how and when to turn off the utilities (water, gas, and electricity).
Check your insurance coverage.
Get training from your local fire department for each family member on how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type), and show them where it’s kept.
Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
Conduct a home hazard hunt. Make a Plan3.jpg
Stock emergency supplies and assemble a disaster supply kit.
Take first aid and CPR classes.

Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
Find the safest places in your home for each type of disaster.
Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather, earthquakes and other disasters to children. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.
Know the types of disasters that are most likely to happen in your community and know what to do in each case.
Pick two places to meet: one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire, and one outside of your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. Make sure everyone knows the addresses and phone numbers of your meeting places.
Ask an out-of-state friend or relative to be your “family contact.” After a disaster, it’s often easier to call long distance than local.
Check on the emergency plans of all schools your children attend.
Practice and maintain your family plan.
Quiz your kids every six months.
Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.
Replace stored water and stored food every six months.
Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) regularly.
Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.