Leading the Way

Creating an effective emergency plan is the first step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones during a crisis. Start by identifying the types of disasters most likely to affect your area. In Kentucky, these may include tornadoes, floods and severe storms.

Now that you’ve defined the risks in your area, you can start answering the critical questions. How do you plan to communicate with your family? Where will you go if you have to evacuate? What are you bringing with you? Answer these questions and you’ll see your emergency plan come together.

Communication is Key

Know how you will communicate with each other. Is it by cell phone? If the cell signal is down it’s important to have a backup—whether that’s a satellite phone, two-way radio or other disaster-proof method. Make sure everyone knows the plan.

Once you’ve decided how to communicate, pick an out-of-state contact who can help coordinate information amongst family members. Keep their contact information written down in your emergency kit along with a list of emergency contacts and important phone numbers. Planning ahead now lets you stay connected when it matters most.

Build Your Go-Bag

In the event of evacuation, having an emergency kit that you can grab and go with will save you time and keep you prepared while you’re away from home. 

This emergency kit should sustain you and your family for at least three days. Pack the essentials: bottled water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, a flashlight, first-aid kit, and important documents. Customize this kit for any special needs.

Planning for All Ages (and Breeds)

Every family is different, and you can’t forget those with special needs. Elderly parents, young children, disabled family members, and pets all require special care. Plan ahead by setting aside medications, medical equipment, and the appropriate food in your emergency bag.

Mapping Your Evac Plan

If an evacuation order is issued, you won’t have time to decide on an escape plan. Decide on the evacuation route your family will take ahead of time, identifying multiple backups in case one is blocked. Choose a safe meeting place near your home and another outside your neighborhood in case you become separated. Practice these routes to make sure everyone is familiar with them and can evacuate quickly.

Review, Refresh, Repeat

Emergencies can happen without warning and it’s vital to keep your plan up to date. Review and practice your emergency plan at least twice a year, or whenever there are significant changes in your household.

Protect Your Home

Review the most common disasters near your home and take steps to mitigate any possible damage. This could include securing heavy furniture to the walls to prevent tipping during earthquakes or clearing flammable materials out of the yard.

Be Informed, Be Prepared

Stay informed about disasters near you. Sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor weather conditions through trusted sources.  

Kentucky Emergency Management provides real-time updates and information on various emergencies. To receive text message alerts from KYEM about emergencies in your area, text "follow kyempio" to the number 40404.

Get Involved

Join community emergency response teams or volunteer with local organizations through Kentucky VOAD. Connect with your neighbors, and together, attend training sessions or emergency preparedness workshops offered by local agencies. A prepared community is a safe community.

Be Aware, Be Prepared, Have a Plan

By being aware of the risks in your area and preparing your family to respond quickly and safely, you’ll be well-prepared for any emergency.