Step 8: Educate and Train Your Family
Education and training are essential for ensuring everyone in your family knows how to communicate during an emergency.
Teach Communication Procedures: Educate family members about communication procedures, including how to make phone calls, send text messages, use social media, and operate two-way radios.
CPR and First Aid Training: Enroll family members in CPR and first aid courses. Knowing how to provide basic medical care can be invaluable during an emergency.
Fire Safety: Teach family members how to use fire extinguishers, escape from a burning building, and perform stop, drop, and roll.
Regular Drills: Conduct regular communication drills to practice using the communication tree, contacting emergency services, and relaying information.
Step 9: Stay Informed
Staying informed about potential emergencies and ongoing situations is crucial for making timely and informed decisions.
Monitor News and Weather: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio on hand to monitor news and weather updates. Subscribe to local emergency alert systems.
Download Emergency Apps: Install emergency apps on your smartphone that provide real-time alerts, safety tips, and information about shelters and resources.
Know Your Community’s Plans: Familiarize yourself with your community’s emergency plans, including evacuation routes, shelter locations, and resources.
Step 10: Review and Update Your Plan
A communication plan is not a one-time task. Regularly reviewing and updating your plan ensures it remains effective and relevant.
Schedule Regular Reviews: Set a schedule to review and update your communication plan at least once a year or whenever there are significant changes, such as a new family member, a move, or a change in medical conditions.
Test and Evaluate: Conduct drills and tests to evaluate the effectiveness of your plan. Identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.
Keep Information Current: Ensure all contact information, medical information, and emergency supplies are up to date. Replace expired items in your emergency kits.
Additional Considerations for Specific Emergencies
Different types of emergencies may require specific considerations and preparations. Here are some additional tips for various emergency scenarios:
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes: Secure heavy furniture and appliances to prevent them from falling. Identify safe spots in each room, such as under sturdy tables, and practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills.
Hurricanes: Install storm shutters or board up windows. Know your evacuation routes and have a plan for securing your home and turning off utilities.
Tornadoes: Identify a safe room in your home, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor. Practice moving to this location quickly.
Floods: Know if you live in a flood-prone area and have a plan for evacuating to higher ground. Keep important documents and valuables in waterproof containers.
Wildfires: Create a defensible space around your home by clearing flammable vegetation. Know your evacuation routes and have a plan for leaving quickly.
