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Families can reduce confusion and respond more quickly during disasters by preparing before trouble begins. Hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, house fires and power outages can all disrupt access to food, water, transportation and communication with little warning.
A practical emergency plan, stocked supply kits and regular drills can help protect loved ones and ease stress during a crisis.
Build or Update a Family Emergency Plan
Every household should decide in advance what family members will do and where they will go during an emergency. The plan should include:
- Meeting places inside and outside the home
- Contact information for relatives and other essential contacts
- Evacuation routes and transportation arrangements
- An out-of-town contact who can relay information
- Provisions for pets and service animals
- A list of documents and valuables to take during an evacuation
Families with an existing plan should review it regularly and account for changes in contact details, transportation, medical needs or household members.
Stock Supplies for at Least Three Days
An emergency kit should contain basic necessities for periods when food, water or other resources are difficult to obtain. Recommended supplies include:
- One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
- Nonperishable food and a manual can opener
- A battery-powered radio
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- A first-aid kit
- Moist towelettes and garbage bags for sanitation
- A wrench or pliers for shutting off utilities
Smaller portable kits can also be stored at work and in household vehicles.
Older adults may need additional supplies, including medications, medical equipment, eyeglasses, hearing aids, chargers, health documents, warm blankets, extra clothing and shoes, hygiene products and cash.
Practice Before a Crisis
Creating a plan is only the first step. Families should hold fire and evacuation drills so everyone—particularly children—knows how to leave safely and reach the designated meeting place.
Timing each drill can reveal obstacles or parts of the plan that need improvement.
Household members can also prepare by learning CPR and first aid, practicing how to use a fire extinguisher, identifying the safest areas of the home and learning how to shut off gas, water and electricity.
Fairfax County residents have faced major storms, hurricanes and power outages in recent years. The county’s Community Emergency Response Guide offers additional preparedness information in English, Spanish, Korean, Arabic, Mandarin and Vietnamese.
Taking these steps can leave families better equipped for emergencies in 2025 and beyond.