Family Preparedness Plan

The best way to protect your family against potential weather disasters and emergency situations is to be prepared.

Compile a disaster supply kit.
Discuss with your family:
- Where your “safe room” is. (basement or interior room)
- Where you will meet if separated.
- Who your out of town contact is.
Where your Disaster Supply Kit is located.
Take pictures or videos of your home contents for insurance purposes and store at a friend’s or relative’s house.
Locate gas and water shut-off valves.
Get cash (without power, credit cards are unusable).
Fill up the gas tank in your vehicle.
Plan for your pets:
- Contact emergency shelters to find out if they accept pets.
- Make sure vaccinations are up-to-date.
Listen to emergency announcements and follow directions.

Call your out-of-town contact or other family members to let them know you are OK.
Listen to emergency announcements:
- Wait for “all clear” to know it is safe to return home.
- Check for damage in your home.
- Contact your insurance provider to report any damages.
Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasolines, and other flammable liquids immediately.
If you have pets:
- Confine your pets during the clean-up period.
- Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home.
- If pets cannot be found, contact local animal control office.
Check on your neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons.
Repair or block access to anything in your home that is damaged and could cause injuries. Stay away from downed power lines.

Source: The Weather Channel – Weatherchannel.com