How To Create a Family Emergency Plan

In the wake of Hurricane Dorian -- which recently caused massive flooding and destruction in the Bahamas, and resulted in a death toll of 50 and counting -- many of us may be wondering, "Am I prepared enough for an emergency situation?"

September is National Preparedness Month, and just as hospitals plan for emergencies and disasters, you and your family should also plan to protect yourself and your loved ones when an emergency occurs.

Disasters, whether natural or caused by humans, often happen with little to no warning, yet a study by the Federal Emergency Management Agency found that fewer than 50 percent of American households had discussed or developed an emergency plan.

There are five basic steps to help you and your family be prepared for a disaster:

1. Know the risks in your area
2. Have an individual and family preparedness plan in place
3. Always have a supply of water and non-perishable supplies available
4. Ensure that you have an up-to-date contact list for people you may need to reach out to during a disaster
5. Establish alternative means of communication in case traditional means are not available

There are several things to consider as you develop your family preparedness plan in order to make it effective during an emergency.  The first step is to determine how you receive emergency alerts and warnings and keep those in mind so you receive messages.  Emergencies can require you to leave your home, think about where your family will seek shelter during an evacuation.  If the need arises to evacuate, think of the best routes out of your community but also think about the best way to quickly leave your home while grabbing any long term necessities.  Finally, determine the best way to quickly connect and communicate with all family members to put your plans in motion.

There is a lot to think about when you create your plans, start with the following to ensure everything is covered while planning:

• Ages of members within your household
• Responsibilities for assisting others
• Locations frequented
• Dietary needs
• Medical needs including prescription medications and medical equipment
• Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment
• Languages spoken
• Cultural and religious considerations
• Pets or service animals
• Households with school-aged children

If you have questions, or for more information on how to create a family emergency plan, visit FEMA at www.ready.gov or the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management at www.ready.nj.gov.  Always remember tragedy can be avoided if the proper steps are taken to be prepared.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Scott Skrivanek, M.A., CHEP, is a certified health care emergency professional. Scott is the coordinator of Life Safety and Emergency Management at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center. To learn more about Raritan Bay Medical Center, click here.
• To make an appointment with a health care provider near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.