Household Emergency Plan
One of the best ways to keep your family safe during the chaos of a hurricane is to plan ahead. Creating a household emergency plan ensures you and your loved ones can act quickly when disaster strikes.
Make a plan with your family today! Here are some steps to help you:
Create an Evacuation Plan:
- Ensure all family members know your nearest shelter and evacuation route. Plan to take one car per family to avoid being separated in route, and always keep a full tank of gas.
- Ahead of time, designate which family members will close and lock windows and doors and unplug electrical devices, etc.
- Set aside evacuation appropriate attire such as a long shirt and pants, a cap, durable shoes, and rain gear.
- In addition, set aside a ‘go bag’ of essential items to take to the shelter.
Do you have everything? Download our Checklist of What to Take to a Shelter and make sure you don’t forget anything.
- If evacuation becomes necessary, evacuation orders will be issued by the Government of The Bahamas. Listen and follow all orders and instructions. Gather your family, grab your ‘go bag,’ and evacuate immediately to avoid being trapped by severe weather. Avoid driving in flooded areas and stay clear of downed power lines.
Compile a List of Emergency Contacts:
- Keep a list of emergency contacts handy such as the police, shelters, hospitals, fire services, and the DRM (Disaster Risk Management) Authority Hotlines.
- This list should also include personal emergency contacts such as your family doctor and next-of-kin, if applicable.
- Store your contact list physically and electronically, for example putting a list on the wall of your home and keeping the numbers in your phone.
Practice Your Plan:
- Conduct drills with your family to make certain each member knows their role and can act swiftly in an emergency.
- Review your home’s layout to ensure all members of the household are aware of the location of emergency supplies, safety equipment, first aid kit, emergency exits, and your shelter room.
Have Alternate Shelters
- Have a minimum of two people living in another neighborhood who you can call and stay with in case of an emergency where you have to evacuate and cannot go to a shelter. Inform your family members of these contacts.
Designate a Shelter at Home:
- In the event that you cannot evacuate, select a small interior room in your home with few to no windows where you and your family members can take refuge. If possible, this room should be above ground level in case of flooding.
Get informed.
- Continuously follow the DRM Authority's social media pages and trusted news sources for storm alerts and notifications. Also, review the DRM Authority’s Get Storm Ready resources for more information on preparing your house and family for a hurricane
Additional Resources:
Wanna stay prepared? Download our Household Emergency Plan and keep your family safe during the hurricane season.
