Create a family communication plan now, before an emergency happens. Keep contact information for family members, work and school, as well as at least one out-of-town (or out-of-state) relative. Often, long-distance lines are available first.

Investigate what emergency procedures are already in place where your family members attend at school or work. Plan meeting locations. Choose a place right outside your home in case of sudden emergency. Choose a location outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home.

When an emergency happens, phone lines may be down, and if they are not, they are going to be busy. Begin to follow your emergency plan.

1^st—Don’t panic. Schools and many other public institutions have disaster plans. Listen to your battery powered radio for instruction and information.

2^nd—If you can make phone calls, keep them as short as possible.

3^rd—If you cannot make phone calls, rely on your family emergency plan. Meet or take as many family members as you can to your designated meeting location. Use common sense, and presume that your missing family member(s) are not alone and are being assisted.