Identify potential hazards in your area, such as:
Severe weather (storms, floods, tornados)
Fires
Power outages
Public health emergencies
Delaware County Emergency Management
Family Emergency Preparedness Plan
Preparedness, Safety, and Community Resilience
This document outlines essential strategies, resources, and actions your family can take to prepare for various emergencies, including natural disasters, health crises, and unexpected events. By following this plan, you can enhance your family's preparedness, ensure effective communication, and foster resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Disasters can happen at any time, and having a plan in place can make all the difference in keeping your family safe. This guide provides vital steps for creating a comprehensive home disaster plan for your family.
1. Understand the Risks
2. Emergency Contacts
Create a list of important contacts, including:
Family members and close friends
Neighbors
Local emergency services (fire, police, hospitals)
Out-of-state contacts (it may be easier to reach someone far away)
See page 2
3. Family Communication Plan
Establish a communication plan that includes:
How you will contact each other (text, call, social media)
Where you will meet if separated during a disaster
Designate an out-of-state relative or friend as a point of contact
See page 2
4. Emergency Kit
Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies:
See page 5
5. Evacuation Plan
Plan your evacuation route and identify:
Nearest shelters or evacuation points
Transportation options (vehicle, public transport)
How pets will be included in the plan
Be familiar with the routes and practice driving them with your family.
See page 3
6. Home Safety Measures
Prepare your home by:
Securing heavy furniture, appliances, outdoor furniture and items
Identifying safe spots during earthquakes (under sturdy furniture)
Ensuring smoke detectors, carbon monoxide, and fire extinguishers are in working order
7. Stay Informed
Monitor local news and radio channels for weather updates and emergency alerts.
Utilize weather apps and make sure emergency notifications are turned on on your mobile device
Invest in a NOAA weather radio for your home
Do not rely on outdoor warning sirens while inside your home. Outdoor warning sirens are intended for outdoor use only.
Stay updated on emergencies by opting in to receive notifications.
Text your zip code to 888777 for Delaware County emergency alerts.
Or visit nixle.com to sign up for alerts.
8. Revisit, Practice and Update Your Plan
Review and update your disaster plan regularly, especially after significant changes such as moving, new family members, or changes in contact information.
Conduct regular drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do during an emergency. This helps ensure that your plan is effective and familiar to all family members.
Additional Resources
Delaware County Emergency Management: [https://www.co.delaware.in.us/department/index.php?structureid=13]
Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/DelawareCoIndianaEMA/]
Ready.gov: [https://www.ready.gov/be-informed]