Overview
Let's make sure everyone has what they need and is protected in the event of emergency.
Children
- Talk about your family's emergency plan with children, and include them in planning.
- Make sure they know who your emergency contacts are and how to call them.
- Teach kids about how and when to call 911.
In Case of Emergency
- Have enough supplies to take with you to keep them safe and comfortable. Include baby formula, baby food, diapers, bottles, toys, and games.
- Do your kids go to daycare or school? Know the facility's emergency procedures, and authorize a nearby friend or relative to pick them up in case you can't get to the school in an emergency.
Older Adults
Know Your Support Network
It's crucial for older adults to have a support network of family and friends that can help in an emergency.
Once you have that network in place, make an emergency plan and practice it with them. Make sure at least one person in your network has an extra key to your home.
Get Benefits Electronically
Disasters can disrupt mail services for days or even weeks. If you rely on Social Security or other benefits, it's a good idea to switch to electronic service now wherever it is available.
- If you get federal benefits you can sign up for direct deposit by calling 800-333-1795 or signing up online.
Printable Emergency Plan
We worked with the Salvation Army and Pennsylvania Department of Aging to create a printable emergency plan for older adults.
Simply print it, fill it out, and keep it somewhere safe for you and your emergency network.
People with Disabilities
Know Your Support Network
It's crucial to have a support network of family and friends that can help in an emergency.
Once you have that network in place, make an emergency plan and practice it with them. Make sure at least one person in your network has an extra key to your home.
Plan for Medical Equipment
If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage.
You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration.
Plan for Transportation
Plan ahead for accessible transportation that you may need for evacuation or getting around during or after disaster. Check with local transit providers as well as with your emergency management agency to identify appropriate accessible options.
Contact Your Local Emergency Management Office
Many city and county emergency management agencies keep voluntary lists of people with disabilities so they can help them quickly in an emergency. Talk to them so they can help you prepare.
Pets
Never leave pets behind when evacuating your home. Plan now to keep them safe in an emergency.
Have Emergency Supplies for Them
Include food, water, travel bowls, harnesses and leashes, carriers, first-aid items, necessary medicines, sanitary items like cat litter and bags, toys, blankets, and bedding.
Think About Where They Can Safely Stay
It's not safe for your pet to leave them behind at home during a disaster.
While emergency shelters will accommodate people and service animals, they do not always allow pets.
Think about where you could take them in an emergency. This could include pet boarding facilities, with a reliable family member or friend, and/or pet-friendly hotels.
You also can bring up evacuation and emergency care with your veterinarian.
