Family Disaster Preparedness

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Be Ready Before It Happens

Disasters can strike without warning, disrupting daily life, damaging property, and threatening lives. The best way to protect your loved ones is to plan ahead. Family disaster preparedness isn’t just about having extra food and water—it’s about knowing how to communicate, where to go, how to protect your most vulnerable members, and even how to care for pets. Whether it’s a storm, fire, or other emergency, taking time now to prepare can make all the difference when every second counts.

Preparedness Is Peace of Mind

Preparing your family for a disaster doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking practical steps—like making a plan, backing up vital information, accounting for everyone’s needs, and practicing together—you can increase your family’s safety and confidence during an emergency.

For more resources and checklists, visit GwinnettSafety411.com.

The Family Preparedness Plan

A comprehensive family emergency plan can ensure every member of your household is ready—especially those with special needs or health considerations.

Create Your Family Preparedness Plan
Build your Emergency Preparedness Plan with your Family	Discuss and Decide Together: Identify likely disasters (e.g., tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires) and how to respond to each. Decide in advance: Where to shelter or evacuate How to get there What to bring Set Emergency Meeting Places: Nearby: e.g., mailbox or neighbor’s house In your community: e.g., library or community center Out of town: e.g., a relative’s or friend’s home Ensure everyone knows the address and directions to each location. Collect and Share Important Contacts: Family and household members Schools, doctors, and service providers Out-of-area emergency contacts Share copies with all family members and post visibly at home. Practice Your Plan: Hold regular family drills including evacuations, communication, and meeting at designated places.
Use Technology Wisely	Stay Connected: Use the Ready Georgia app for planning and supplies. Communicate via text, social media, or safety check tools like Facebook and Twitter. Keep Devices Powered: Charge all devices before storms. Keep backup batteries, car/solar chargers. Limit device use during outages. Protect Digital and Financial Information: Back up documents to cloud or flash drive. Use online banking and direct deposit. Visit GoDirect.org or call 800-333-1795 to enroll.
Plan for Family Members with Special Needs	Assess Needs and Build a Support Network: Prepare to be independent for 72+ hours. List caregivers and emergency contacts. Provide a trusted person with a key and supply access. Medical and Assistive Devices: Have extra medications, batteries, and chargers. Know how to operate equipment without power. Discuss options with healthcare providers. Communication and Mobility Tools: Use pictogram cards or communication boards. Label items in Braille or large print. Keep device info (models, vendors) in a safe place.
Include Your Pets in the Plan	Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit: Food and water (3+ days) Medications and medical records Leash, collar, ID tags, crate/carrier Sanitation supplies, comfort items Photo of you with your pet for ID Make Arrangements in Advance: Locate pet-friendly shelters/hotels. Set up a buddy system with a neighbor. Microchip your pet and keep info updated.

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