Family Preparedness Plan
In the event of an emergency, every family should have a preparedness kit at the ready that includes important documents and information about you, your child/ren, and your family. You should also have a plan that details immediate and longer-term actions to be taken in situations that may result in family separation, including natural disasters, motor vehicle accidents, a family member’s severe illness, child protective services involvement, incarceration, or detention and deportation.
These are potentially rare but serious circumstances for which parents should have arrangements in place to prevent or mitigate stress and trauma to their child/ren and to provide assurance that your child/ren will be properly cared for, according to your wishes.
Some important steps include:
Gather Documents
Pull together important documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, health insurance cards, and passports, as well as medical and financial information, etc. Keep the documents together in a safe place where you can quickly access them when needed. (If possible, consider a fireproof bag or container to protect your documents).
Identify Caregivers
Create a list of available caregivers and their contact information. Choose people you can trust to be temporary guardians of your child/ren. Write and sign a letter designating that authority through a power of attorney.
Note: In the event of separation in an emergency, parents can and will be reunified with their children unless otherwise directed by their plan.
Share the Plan
Discuss and share your preparedness plan with family and friends who are willing to assist you in an emergency and who are clear about your wishes.
Pack a Go-Bag
Pack an age-appropriate “Go” bag for every member of the family with clothing, shoes, medicine, and any other essential items needed for a couple of days.