Prepared People Save Lives: Make a Plan

Being prepared means having a plan. Without a plan, responding to emergencies is harder. Having a personal emergency plan today helps make a safer tomorrow!

Decide if You Should Stay or Go

  • If a disaster strikes, the most important thing is deciding what to do next. Think about your health needs, whether your home has been damaged by the emergency, and how bad the threat really is.
  • If you stay:
    • Make sure to stay updated on weather and news alerts.
    • Keep a supply kit/go bag close by just in case.
    • Know where the safest places are in your home, such as the basement, bathroom, or highest level depending on the type of emergency.
  • If you leave:
    • Give yourself enough time to travel.
    • Find local shelters or safe areas to go to ahead of time

Make Your Personal Emergency Plan

  • Know where you are going/how to get there: Know your way around your area in case certain roads are closed. Decide if it is safer to stay at home.
  • Know what to take: Plan to have essential items you cannot be without. This can be
    stored at home in a backpack or in your car. Make sure it is light and easy to move.

    • Keep valuable documents in a safe place. Have digital backups of your:
      • ID.
      • Passport.
      • Social Security card.
      • Medical records.
      • Other certificates you may have.
  • Know who can help: Reach out to neighbors, local friends, or community members. They can be the first to help in an emergency.
    • You can ask:
      • What their plan is.
      • If they got any news alerts you did not see.
      • If they have extra emergency supplies that you may need.
      • If there is something they need from you

Practice and Update Your Plan

  • Practice: The more you practice, the more you can see what is missing or needs to be changed.
  • Update your plan regularly: Doing this will help you keep up with personal changes as well as any changes in your area, such as new routes or road closures.
  • Ask for help! Your support system can help you edit your plan to make realistic
    changes

What Can You Do Now?

  • Write down your plan so you will not forget anything.
  • Once a year, schedule a family practice drill or discussion.
  • Keep your plan nearby. Make sure everyone in your family has a copy

Remember to always be informed, make a plan, and take action! Prepared people save lives. Check out AID in PA’s emergency preparedness resource collection for more information here. 

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This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.