Emergency Preparedness at Home

Preparedness works best when it starts with likely disruptions: loss of power, interrupted water, severe weather, evacuation orders and communication problems.

Four jobs to cover

• Plan: decide how household members reconnect and where they meet.
• Supply: maintain appropriate water, food, medication and essential items for your household.
• Communicate: keep contact information and backup charging options accessible.
• Respond: know when local authorities advise evacuation or sheltering.

Use the emergency preparedness checklist →

Build around your household

Children, older adults, pets, disability needs, medications and local hazards can materially change what belongs in a plan. Generic kits should be adapted rather than copied blindly.