1. Organize an evacuation plan, with multiple escape routes from your home. Establish an
emergency meeting place should your family get separated.
2. Learn how to shut off utilities. All responsible household members should know how to
shut off gas, water, and electricy in a crisis.
3. Learn which weather conditions could prompt disasters. When these conditions occur,
listen to radio or TV broadcasts for emergency information. Evacuate immediately if told to do so.
4. Make a family emergency kit. See below for a list of essential items to keep in an
emergency supply kit and an emergency evacuation kit.
Where the Bad Weather Is
Grab and Go Checklist
If you have to leave your home in a hurry due to a flood, fire or other disaster, it's imporant to
take financial and legal documents along with other must-have items. Remember: If you become
homeless, important documents can make it easier to apply for benefits and relocate or rebuild.
Start with these emergency evacuation essentials.
You can create an emergency evacuation kit by compiling necessary items and storing them in a
self-sealing plastic bag. Keep the bag in a fireproof box that is readily accessible and easy
to carry in an emergency:
Prescription medicaitons
Insurance policies—originals or copies of homeowners or renter's policies and policies
for vehicles, ife and other coverage. Make sure you have your insurance agent contact information.
Photos of all family members and pets, in case you become separated
Medical records detailing health conditions and immunizations
Legal documents, including copies or originals of passports, birth certificates, will, powers of
attorney, and medical directives.
Financial information, including account numbers and contact information for investment and banking accounts.
The key to your safe-deposit box, plus proof of ownership.
In addition, The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends in a basic emergency supply kit:
Water—1 gallon per person per day, for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
Food—at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food.
Radios—a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
Flashlight and extra batteries.
First-aid kit.
Whistle to signal for help.
Dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape— to help filter contaminated air.
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and ties for personal sanitation.
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
Can opener (if kit contains canned food).
Local maps.
Additional recommendations:
Prescription medications and eyeglasses.
Infant formula and diapers.
Pet food and extra water for your pet.
Emergency reference material, such as a first-aid book.
A sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
A complete change of clothing.
Chlorine bleach and a mediciine dropper, for disinfecting.
Fire extinguisher.
Matches in a waterproof container.
Personal hygiene items.
Mess kits, cups, plates, utensils, paper towels.
Paper and pencil.
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.
