By preparing both mentally and physically, you can increase your confidence and ability to handle a real emergency situation. Being prepared can reduce the fear, anxiety and losses that disasters often bring.
No two households are the same. When you're building your household emergency plan, be mindful of everyone in your household. Evaluate the needs of groups like seniors, people with disabilities, children and pets. You can visit the Government of Ontario emergency management website for information and resources on how to build an inclusive family emergency plan.
Family communications plan
During an emergency, phone lines may be damaged and networks could be down. It might be easier to reach someone using text messaging, social media or a phone call. Discuss with your family the ways you will try to get in touch with each other. Identify one or two out-of-town contacts you and your loved ones can call or text to connect and share information. Make sure they live far enough away so they will likely not be affected by the same emergency.
In emergencies, text messages may get through even when phone calls won't connect.
Always keep your communication devices (e.g. cellphone, laptop, tablets) fully charged.
Evacuation plan
In case you are asked to evacuate your home or neighborhood, select two safe locations where you could go. For your nearby option, be aware that the City may identify and direct residents to specific facilities during an emergency, so monitor official instructions as they become available.
Your second location should be farther away, in case the emergency affects a larger area and nearby options are not available. Consider identifying relatives or friends that you can stay with.
Plan how you would travel to each location, considering different transportation options if roads are blocked or public transit is not running. If you have pets, think of someone who could take them if you have to leave your home, or identify shelters and accommodations that accept animals.
Evacuation route
Make sure everyone in your home knows how to safely exit your home by a main exit and an alternate exit, like a garage or backdoor. If you have mobility issues or a disability, talk to your neighbours or building manager to make special arrangements.
In a fire or other emergency, you may need to evacuate your house, apartment or mobile home on a moment's notice. You should be ready to get out fast.
Develop an escape plan by drawing a floor plan of your residence. Using a black or blue pen, show the location of doors, windows, stairways, and large furniture. Indicate the location of emergency supplies (disaster supplies kit), fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, collapsible ladders, first aid kits and utility shut off points. Next, use a coloured pen to draw a broken line charting at least two escape routes from each room. Finally, mark a place outside of the home where household members should meet in case of fire.
Be sure to include important points outside such as garages, patios, stairways, elevators, driveways and porches. If your home has more than two floors, use an additional sheet of paper.
Practice emergency evacuation drills with all household members at least twice a year.