Following a disaster it is very possible that emergency response personnel may not be able to respond immediately to your needs. With this in mind, you and your family should develop a plan enabling you to be on your own for at least 72 hours following the disaster.

Preparing for an Emergency

• Designate an out-of-state contact person. You should select someone that is far enough away to not be affected by the same emergency.
• Inform this person of the whereabouts of you and your family, your situation, and ask them to notify friends and other family members.
• Long distance phone service is often restored sooner than local service.
• Duplicate important documents and keep copies off-site, possibly in a safe deposit box or with someone you trust. These documents may include: passports, drivers license, social security card, will, deeds, financial statements, insurance information, and marriage license.
• Make an extra copy of your driver’s license, deeds, and property tax receipts and carry them with you should you evacuate. You may need these as proof in order to re-enter your community following a disaster.
• Inventory your valuables in writing and also with photographs or video and keep this information off-site with your other documents.
• Review your insurance polices, are you properly covered, does your homeowners policy cover flood damage?
• Make a household / family plan involving all key family members.
• Make your home safe. Not only do you have to prepare, but you need to prepare your home as well.
• Put together a disaster supply kit. You should have enough supplies for yourself and family for at least 3 days following a disaster.
• Consider special needs of children, seniors, and those disabled. Pets will also require attention and should be included in your plan.

Additional Information

Emergency Preparedness Checklist
Red Cross Disaster Preparation