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Make a Plan

Agreeing on a disaster plan and writing it down helps everyone in your household know what to do—especially if you can’t get in touch by phone.

Home
A household emergency plan should include:
  • Escape routes from your home in case of fire, flood or earthquake
  • A meeting point for family members (if separated during an emergency)
  • Neighbourhood evacuation routes
  • An out-of-town contact everyone can call in to for updates
  • Shelter if your home becomes inaccessible
  • Location of household utilities (gas, water) and instructions in case you need to turn them off
  • Location of your fire extinguisher
  • Copy of utilities and insurance contacts
  • Key information about emergency processes at work locations and, if you have kids, schools or daycares
Medical Kit
You should also include important medical information such as:
  • Contact information for your doctor(s)
  • Critical medications and medical equipment
  • Insurance for first responders
  • Health care numbers
Checklist
And don’t forget to copy and safeguard important documents such as:
  • Birth certificates
  • Passports
  • Licenses
  • Wills
  • Deeds
  • Insurance papers

Keep copies of your emergency plan and important documents on your phone, in a binder in your home and in an off-site safety deposit box if possible.

And remember to review and update your plan annually with everyone in your household.

Learn more about making a household emergency plan and how to prepare your household.