Storm Ready

Step Two - Make a Plan

Before a flood...

Emergency Prepared Checklist imageIt is important to make sure that the entire family is prepared and informed in the event of a disaster or emergency. You may not always be together when these events take place and should have plans for making sure you are able to contact and find one another.

Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster.

  • Explain the dangers of, severe weather, fire and earthquakes to children.
  • Explain what to do for each disaster type. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.
  • Pick two places to meet:
    • The first location should be right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.
    • The second location should be outside your neighborhood in case you can't return home.  Everyone must know the address and phone number of the neighborhood location.
    • Ask an out-of-area relative or friend to be your "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance.  All family members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your contact's phone number.
  • People with disabilities or elder family members may have special needs.  Visit the Red Cross pages, Preparedness for People with Disabilities and Preparedness for Seniors​.
  • Plan how to take care of your pets.​ The Sacramento County Department of Animal Care and Services has information on disaster planning for pets.
  • Find out about the disaster plans at your workplace, your children's school or day care center, and other places where your family spends time.
Plan what to do if you have to evacuate
  • Decide where you would go and what route you would take to get there. You may choose to go to a hotel/motel, stay with friends or relatives in a safe location or go to an evacuation shelter if necessary.
  • Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on your map in case roads are impassable.
Let Your Family Know You're Safe
  • If your community has experienced a disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well website​ to let your family and friends know you are safe. You may also call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and select the prompt for "Disaster" to register yourself and your family.

More information ​about building a plan