Family Disaster Plan
Having a plan can help your family make it through most disasters with minimal stress. A family disaster plan simply helps you organize information so it’s easy to access before, during or after a
disaster.
Begin the process by completing a Family Emergency Plan document like the one at www.ready.gov or by University of Missouri Extension. Fill in phone numbers, out-of-town contacts, meetingplaces and information about each family member and pets. Include information about insurance and finances, the home itself and its contents. Include how to communicate with family members, school and work contacts, and other important information.
Know the school’s policy about when children will be evacuated or held at school, and plan for children in child care. Have a family meeting to talk about this information and what you would do if family members are not home when a warning is issued. Agree on safe places inside and outside the home.
Also, plan for emergencies that may only affect your family, such as a home fire.
- Plan two ways out of each room.
- Practice the escape plans with home fire drills.
- Designate a meeting location near but safely away from your home, such as a neighbor’s house.