You can never be too prepared for an emergency.

Many of us are creatures of habit and rarely stray from our regular routines, but it’s important to prepare for the things you wouldn’t usually think about:


During an emergency, your primary mode of transportation (such as your car, the train, or walking) may be unavailable or dangerous.

Identify alternative modes of transportation you can take in case of a snowstorm, hurricane, and other types of emergencies.

Routes and exits

The route you take to work, your children’s daycare, or to a family member’s house may be blocked or unsafe during an emergency.

Identify multiple ways you can get to your regular destinations so you have options if the need arises.

To stay safe in public places, it’s also important to make note of where exits are when you’re in a new location, such as a shopping mall, movie theater, or restaurant.

That way, if you need to evacuate, you already know which directions you can head.

Communication modes

During an emergency, your normal way of communicating, whether that be orally in person, by cell phone, or by email, may be impacted by changes in environment, noise, or even confusion.

Know how and what you need to communicate during an emergency. For instance, if you are hearing impaired, practice communicating your needs through gestures, note cards, text messages, or other means.

If a family member is blind or has poor vision, prepare to explain to others how to best guide him or her.

If you have special communication needs (you are hearing impaired, unable to speak, have trouble speaking clearly, or don’t speak English very well), pre-written cards or texts can help you share information during a stressful or uncomfortable situation.

Create pre-written messages by describing your needs in short, meaningful phrases—you may not have much time to get your message across. Phrases may include:

• I have difficulty understanding what you are telling me.

• Please speak slowly and use simple language.

• I use a device to communicate.

• I am deaf and use American Sign Language.

• I speak [insert language].

Your pre-written messages should apply to all emergencies inside and outside your home, and keep them with you at all times.

If you have difficulty creating cards, ask family, friends, and caregivers for help. Take the time now, before an emergency, to put a plan into place!