Emergencies are difficult to predict. So it’s best to think ahead. Making an emergency plan is one way to do this. It contains clear agreements with the people around you on what you will do in an emergency situation. For example, how you will reach or locate each other, plus arrangements for anyone requiring extra help.
Making your own emergency plan
You can write your emergency plan on paper, or on your phone or computer. Make sure you have a paper copy for if there’s a power or internet outage. Discuss the emergency plan with your partner, children, parents, and/or neighbours.
Why is it useful to have an emergency plan?
It means you will already have considered the following questions:
- You’re at work and can’t get home. Your phone isn’t working. Who will collect the children from school?
- You have mobility issues and the lift in your apartment block isn’t working. How can you get outside?
- You can’t reach your partner by phone. Where are you going to meet?
- You are dependent on home care or medical equipment. How will you get the care you need?
- You live in a student house and your family lives in another city. How can you stay in contact?
- The internet is down and you are looking for information during an emergency situation. Where can you find reliable information?