09/14/2026
4 Pillars of a Family Emergency Plan
Establish Communication Rules: Choose one out-of-state friend or relative to act as your central point of contact. During emergencies, local phone networks often jam, but long-distance text messages are much more likely to go through.
Pick Meeting Locations: Choose two specific places to meet. The first should be right outside your home (e.g., a specific neighbor's mailbox) for sudden events like a house fire. The second should be outside your neighborhood (e.g., a local library or community center) in case you are ordered to evacuate the area.
Plan for Specific Needs: Document any critical medical prescriptions, mobility limitations, infant formula requirements, or pet evacuation routes that require special planning.
Locate Utility Shut-Offs: Ensure every capable adult and teenager knows exactly where your main water valve, electrical breaker box, and gas valve are located, and keep any required tools (like a wrench) nearby.
