Emergencies don’t happen at a convenient time. When an emergency strikes, you and members of your household may not be together so knowing what to do, where you will go, and how to get in touch with family members is important.
Create a family communication plan
Choose an out-of-town friend or relative to be a contact point for family members to call if you are separated during an emergency. Make sure everyone knows how and when to call 911 or local emergency medical services. Post emergency contact phone numbers near telephones. Create cards or save important contact information in your mobile phone, including numbers for the non-emergency police line, insurance company, healthcare provider, daycare and schools, and veterinarian office.
Develop a family evacuation plan
Practice how you would evacuate your home if it was needed. Learn multiple routes out of your neighborhood. Contact, follow, or sign up for alerts from your local emergency management agency to receive important evacuation information, the location of shelters and hospitals, and recommended evacuation routes.
Most shelters do not accept pets. Prepare a list of kennels, friends and family members who may be able to care for your pet in an emergency. If you are able to take your pet to a shelter, the pet must have a current vaccination record, a pet carrier, and a supply of food.
Address special needs
Make plans to ensure the needs of someone you know who is elderly or dependent on life-sustaining or health-related equipment such as a ventilator or respirator.
Next steps
So now you’ve put together a plan.
- Do you have an emergency supply kit?
- Do you know what to do for hazards that occur in and outside of Iowa?