A good map is critical; be sure to mark alternate routes and evacuation routes from your local area. Make sure to include your map and designated routes in your family's emergency plan and Go Bag. |
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Disaster Response Plan
Talk it up!
Meet with your loved ones and create a Family Disaster Plan - which includes a Family Communications Plan and a Family Evacuation Plan. Outline responsibilities for each member. When you do, remember to:
- Plan ahead for the possibility of becoming separated from your family and friends.
- Designate an individual outside the potentially affected area that each family or household member will call or e-mail to check in with should a hurricane occur. Your selected contact should live far enough away that they would be unlikely to be directly affected by the same event, and they must know they are the chosen contact.
- Know that phone lines (and e-mail) may be out of service or overloaded after a disaster, so it's often easier to call out of the area. You may also have to be patient and try again later.
- Make sure this person has all family emergency phone numbers and contacts.
- Make sure all of your loved ones have the contacts' phone number as well as each others' phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Loved ones should agree to call the out-of-town contact to report their whereabouts and welfare. Consider having a laminated wallet-sized card made to carry with you at all times. For more information about contact cards, visit http://www.redcross.org/prepare/ECCard.pdf
- Practice the communication plan and update as necessary.
- Use the American Red Cross "Safe and Well" Web site, available at www.redcross.org, as a secure, free location to post messages to loved ones worried about your well-being.
- Have all family members stay in contact with the designated individual if you are evacuated to let them know their whereabouts and well-being.
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