When phones, networks, or power fail, a written plan tells everyone in your family who to reach, where to go, and what to do. Fill it in together, keep a copy in every bag and car, and practice it twice a year.

Who’s in our household

List everyone who lives with you, so any family member can share accurate details with responders.

Key contacts

Choose one out-of-town contact: long-distance calls and texts often get through when local lines are jammed. Everyone should know this number by heart.

Where we meet

School, work, and daily places

When technology fails

1. Text first, call second. Texts often get through when calls won’t.
2. Check in with the out-of-town contact, who relays updates to everyone else.
3. Go to the meeting place if you can’t reach anyone within ______ minutes.
4. Memorize at least one number. Don’t rely on a phone that may be dead or lost.
5. Use the family safe word. Anyone calling with an urgent request for money or pickup — even in a familiar voice — must give it. Voice-cloning scams make this essential. Keep the word private and off copies you carry.

Important numbers

Keep it current

• Copy saved in every backpack, purse, and car
• Out-of-town contact has agreed to their role
• Every family member has memorized at least one number
• Practiced the plan together (date: __________)
• Reviewed and updated every six months