Emergency Plan Checklist

1) Blackouts & Backup Power

• List what must stay powered (phones, lights, router, medical needs, fridge basics).
• Estimate “runtime” needs (hours/day × devices) and pick a realistic backup approach.
• Set a simple charging plan (power bank rotation, car charging option, cable kit).
• Choose safe indoor rules (no combustion devices indoors, clear ventilation policy).
• Plan fridge/freezer strategy (keep closed, prioritize perishables, simple meal plan).
• Store printed critical numbers + keep a charged backup phone/power bank.

Go deeper: Blackout Plan (Apartment / House) →

2) Water Readiness

• Set a minimum target (72h baseline, then expand to 7–14 days if possible).
• Pick containers that are easy to carry and seal well; label fill date.
• Define rotation cadence (simple calendar reminder, “use & replace” routine).
• Have a backup treatment method (boil plan, basic filtration, disinfection knowledge).
• Plan non-drinking water for toilets/basic cleaning (separate containers).
• Write down a local “refill map” (where you can safely get water if needed).

Go deeper: Water Storage Guide →

3) Food & Pantry Readiness

• Create a “no-cook” and “minimal-cooking” 3-day menu you’ll actually eat.
• Stock shelf-stable basics (protein, carbs, fats, snacks) + comfort food.
• Set a pantry rotation rule (first-in-first-out; one small weekly swap).
• Store manual can opener and simple utensils (no power required).
• Plan hydration-friendly foods (soups, ready-to-eat options) for low-water days.
• Include special diets (kids, seniors, allergies) as a separate mini-kit.

4) Lighting & Batteries

• Assign one light per “zone” (entry, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom).
• Pick a battery strategy (standardize types; keep a small reserve).
• Store a headlamp per adult (hands-free is the biggest quality-of-life upgrade).
• Set a “night safety” path (stairs/doorways) with low-glare lighting.
• Test everything every 2–3 months (quick 5-minute check).

5) Communication & Alerts

• Enable local emergency alerts on all phones.
• Decide one family “check-in” channel + one fallback option.
• Keep a simple radio plan (where it is stored, spare batteries, who checks updates).
• Write down 5 key contacts on paper (wallet + home copy).
• Save important documents in a secure offline/printed form.

6) Go-Bags & Evacuation

• One bag per person with clothing, hygiene, basic meds, copies of documents.
• Include a compact food/water layer (enough to move for 12–24h).
• Prepare a “grab list” (keys, wallet, chargers, meds, documents).
• Decide 2 meeting points (near + far) and one out-of-area contact.
• Keep footwear + jacket accessible (not buried).

Go deeper: 72-Hour Kit →

7) Home Safety & Essentials

• Basic first-aid and a simple home “safety box” (tape, gloves, sanitizer).
• Know shutoffs (water, gas if applicable) and keep the right tool accessible.
• Fire safety check (extinguisher locations, smoke/CO alarms, exit plan).
• Small cash reserve + copies of IDs (even minimal helps).
• Hygiene plan (trash bags, wipes, basic sanitation routine).

8) Family, Kids & Pets

• Kids: comfort + routine items (snacks, small games, bedtime familiar item).
• Seniors: meds list, mobility support, contact card.
• Pets: food + water + waste plan + carrier/leash ready.
• One page “family plan” with allergies, meds, emergency contacts.

9) Seasonal & Regional Plans

• Winter storms: heat retention, pipes, safe indoor temperature strategy.
• Heatwaves: hydration, cooling zones, nighttime ventilation plan.
• Wildfire smoke: indoor air strategy and a “clean room” idea.
• Storms/flooding: valuables up, go-bag accessible, power safety rules.