Put the people on one page.
Gather the people who live with you. Write down the names and numbers that matter, including school, childcare, caregivers, medical contacts, and an out-of-area person who can relay a short message if local networks are busy. Keep one copy where everyone can find it and give a copy to anyone who may need to pick up a child or help a relative.
Write it down
Decide what happens if you are separated.
Choose two meeting places. Agree on a short check-in message and when to try the out-of-area contact. Ask each person what they would do if phones were unavailable. For children, use plain language and practice the route and the trusted adult who may collect them. Learn the school or childcare center’s reunification policy rather than assuming pickup will work as usual.
Name the needs that cannot wait.
List medications, mobility aids, powered equipment, glasses, infant supplies, pet carriers and food, and any documents needed quickly. Assign a person to each task. If someone depends on power for medical equipment, speak with their clinician and utility about an appropriate backup plan. Keep medical instructions with the person who will actually provide care.
Check one week of basics.
Build a practical buffer of drinking water, shelf-stable food, lighting, charging, hygiene supplies, and necessary medications as circumstances allow. Place supplies where you can reach them. Check expiry dates and swap in items the household already uses. Include a smaller grab-and-go set for an evacuation.
Practice once and improve it.
Walk through how you would leave, check in, or stay in place for a day. Let the plan be simple enough for everyone to remember. Revise what did not work. A family plan earns its value when the people in it know what to do.